Improving the Power Efficiency of Welding Machines using 1200 V CoolSiC(TM) MOSFET Discretes with .XT Interconnection Technology

Abstract:
This paper presents an improved power supply solution for welding machines using the silicon carbide CoolSiC(TM) MOSFET 1200 V in a TO-247 package with .XT interconnection technology, and a wellknown but unconventional, cooling design concept. The design significantly enhances heat dissipation, enabling higher output power levels typically achieved by power module solution designs. The proposed discrete solution is demonstrated with a 500 A welding machine power supply that features a full-bridge topology inverter with increased efficiency and power density, helping to reduce the cost, weight, and size of welding machines.