Traction inverter that applies compact 3.3 kV / 1200 A SiC hybrid module

Abstract

A compact 3.3 kV / 1200 A SiC hybrid module which adopts silicon carbide Schottky barrier diodes (SiC-SBDs) and insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) has been developed. The size of the developed SiC hybrid module is 130 mm × 140 mm, approximately 2/3rd the size of a conventional IGBT module. Using this SiC hybrid module technology, a new traction inverter for railway applications has been developed. The new inverter has been reduced in weight by up to 40% compared to a conventional IGBT inverter. This has been achieved through the use of SiC modules, active gate control technology, reduced cooling system requirements and lightweight oil-free capacitors. The total energy loss of the new inverter is reduced by approximately 35%, through the use of SiC hybrid modules and active gate control drive circuits. © 2014 IEEE.