The dual-channel gate drivers enhance thermal management and system reliability in wind, solar, and energy storage solutions.
Power Integrations has launched its SCALE-iFlex XLT family of dual-channel plug-and-play gate drivers. These drivers are designed for managing single semiconductor modules with up to 2300 V blocking voltage, aimed at the wind, energy storage, and solar installations. The new single-board design facilitates active thermal management of inverter modules, enhances system performance, and simplifies materials used for greater reliability.
The dual-channel gate drivers include Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) data reporting, an isolated method for measuring the temperature of the power module. This feature allows for precise thermal management of converter systems, enabling designers to improve the thermal design and achieve up to 30 per cent more converter power from the same hardware setup. Furthermore, the isolated NTC readout streamlines the hardware design by eliminating the need for multiple cables, connectors, and complex isolation barrier crossing circuits.
Comprehensive safety measures include 100% production tests with partial discharge and transformer HIPOT testing. The creepage on PCB and transformer materials and the clearance distances between the primary and secondary sides meet the IEC 61800-5-1 standards. These standards apply to two-level applications with 1700V power modules and provide essential isolation for three-level applications with 1200V power modules. All components are RoHS compliant, ensuring adherence to environmental and safety regulations.
Some of the key features of the dual-channel gate drivers include:
- Ready-to-use dual-channel gate driver solution optimized for XHP 2 and LV100 power modules
- 1 W output power per channel at maximum ambient temperature
- +15 / -8 A maximum gate current
- Isolated NTC readout signal
- Operation altitude up to 4000 m
- – 40 °C to 85 °C operating ambient temperature
These new gate drivers also leverage Power Integrations’ SCALE-2 chipset, reducing the number of components required and enhancing overall reliability. They also protect power switches during a short-circuit, increasing system safety.
