STMicro Introduces Low-Loss 1200V IGBT Series To Reduce Energy Use In Everyday Motor Drives

STMicroelectronics introduced a new series of power transistors which the company says reduces the environmental impact of daily-use equipment such as home appliances, HVAC systems, and industrial machines by minimizing the two major sources of energy loss in motor-control circuits. The STGW30N120KD and the STGW40N120KD are Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) that have low energy loss when conducting, like an ordinary IGBT, and also reduce losses while switching.

These IGBTs achieve power savings using ST’s PowerMESH™ process, and are said to deliver greater all-round energy efficiency. Lower switching losses allow a higher operating frequency, which, in turn, permits smaller and lower-cost components in power-control circuits. In addition, the IGBTs’ compact industry-standard TO-247 package saves component count by also integrating the ultra-fast freewheeling diode required by most circuits.

The 1200V IGBTs are capable of surviving short circuits lasting up to 10µs, making them resistant to common causes of motor-controller failures, such as an error in the gate drive signal, shorting at grounding, and breakdown of motor phase-to-phase insulation. Hence by improving reliability, the STGW30N120KD and STGW40N120KD are said to save repair and replacement, leading to fewer service calls and reducing the cost of ownership for end users. The new series is rated for 1200V operation, which allows use at higher ac line voltages such as 440 or 480V.

The STGW30N120KD and STGW40N120KD are for applications up to 30 and 40A, respectively. They are in full production and are available, respectively, at $2.50 and $2.80 each, in quantities of 5000 pieces.