Analysis of an IGBT power module

The simulation of IGBT turn-on and turn-off phases is an important aspect of power converter design. Since power IGBTs have fast turn-on and turn-off time capabilities compared with SCRs and GTOs, the stray inductances of the circuit cause voltage spikes that can damage these devices. An accurate circuit layout must be made in order to minimize the stray inductances and to ensure suitable and reliable power converter operation. Moreover, internal IGBT stray inductances and the dynamic saturation have a dominant role in determining switching behavior and they also deeply influence gate driver loop and the IGBT voltage clamp design. Here, the authors investigate these aspects and report some simulation and experimental results obtained using an industrial prototype.<>