A Trans-Linked 5-kW Inverter Using SiC MOSFETs to Achieve Fan-less Operation

A trans-linked inverter using SiC metal-oxidesemiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) achieves a power conversion efficiency (eta) of 99% at 5 kW, and the highest eta of 99.4% at 2 kW. This high eta realizes fanless operation in the inverter. The trans-linked topology along with the high-frequency switching capability of SiC MOSFETs leads to a less required inductance of the smoothing reactor. This reactor is formed by the leakage magnetic flux, and thereby less winding turns can be applied. Consequently the copper loss of the reactor sufficiently trims the total power loss. The low power loss of SiC MOSFETs also contributes to fanless operation at 5 kW.