Mitsubishi Electric to Launch New Intelligent Power Modules for Solar Power Generation Systems
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced the launch of its new "PV Series" intelligent power modules (IPM), mainly for use in residential photovoltaic (PV) inverters. The six models, which can also be used in inverters for fuel cell systems, each measure 90 × 50mm, contributing greatly to PV inverter miniaturization. Shipments will begin in May 2010 through Mitsubishi Electric sales sites in the Americas, Europe, China and Korea.
Demand for PV systems is increasing as a means to generate renewable energy to help prevent global warming. Inverters are an essential part of PV systems, converting dc electricity generated from solar cells into ac electricity for residential use. Because inverters for residential PV systems are usually installed indoors, it is important that they be made as small as possible.
The mounting surface of the new IPM models is only 90 × 50 mm, about 30% less than that of Mitsubishi Electric’s current PV series IPMs launched in 2005. This compact package helps make PV inverters smaller.
Mitsubishi Electric has prepared six models in the new PV series, to suit the various types of circuits in PV inverters, such as single output inverter, single output inverter with one chopper, as well as single output inverter with two choppers. The lineup consists of 4-chip, 5-chip and 6-chip modules, each with a choice of one of two types of current rating: 50 and 75A.
The new PV Series is compliant with the RoHS ("Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances" in electrical and electronic equipment) Directive.
