Investigation of Switching Losses in a T-Type Phase Leg

Abstract:
The 3-level T-Type inverter emerges as a potential topology for automotive powertrains, providing benefits over the 2-level inverter. In this work, a detailed analysis of electrical switching characteristics and switching energies for a full silicon carbide MOSFET based T-Type topology is presented, based on double pulse tests conducted in circuit simulation using realistic models and design parameters. Furthermore, these results are validated using double pulse tests on an experimental prototype. In conclusion, the results are presented with key parameters and their contrast compared to a 2-level topology. This work offers designers a clear picture of key parameters, along with recommendations for designing a 3-level T-Type topology.