Evaluating SiC-MOSFETs and Si-IGBTs as Self-Protected Battery Disconnect Switch in MW-Capable Battery Applications

Conference: PCIM Europe 2023 - International Exhibition and Conference for Power Electronics, Intelligent Motion, Renewable Energy and Energy Management
05/09/2023 - 05/11/2023 at Nürnberg, Germany

doi:10.30420/566091277

Proceedings: PCIM Europe 2023

Pages: 7Language: englishTyp: PDF

Authors:
Schulz, Martin; Yassof, Muhammad (Littelfuse Europe, Germany)
Martinez, Cesar (Littelfuse, Spain)

Abstract:
Currently, electrification of heavy-duty-transportation as well as installing MWh-scale battery-electric energy storage systems (BESS) to balance fluctuating energy sources is a growing market. To protect the battery in case of failure, DC -circuit breakers are needed, usually in form of fuses, contactors or even pyro-fuses. For low -power battery-applications, mechanical miniature switches (MEMS) can be used which appear insufficient if it comes to handling thousands of amps. In this paper, investigation is presented how IGBTs and SiC-MOSFETs could become the core component in such a safety application. Focus is on commercial vehicles, but the technology can be transferred to BESS as well.