Safe operation of IGBTs in switching converters

Abstract

IGBTs are fast replacing other devices in all industrial power control systems up to the hundreds of kW range. The IGBT has been considered as an efficient controllable switch which combines the advantages of both MOS and bipolar technologies. However, in order to ensure safe and reliable operation of the IGBT in actual circuit applications, numerous device aspects must be taken into account during circuit design. The paper presents a detailed study of such behaviour of the IGBT as relevant to actual application in typical switching power converters and discusses actual methods of ensuring safe operation of the IGBT by implementing these requirements into circuit design.<>