Design and Implementation of Automated Characterization of T-type based Power Module for PV Inverter Reliability Assessment

Reliability of power electronics holds the key for future power and energy systems since it is essential for system integration with renewables and energy storage systems. Variation of power module characteristics over the converter's operational lifetime is a critical indicator to assess its reliability. Device characterization consists of different steps to collect, process, and visualize results, which is usually time-consuming, especially for power modules based on a non-phase-leg configuration, such as T-type circuits, widely applied for PV inverters. To reduce the time, ensure repeatability, and guarantee consistency, an automated test bench can be helpful. This paper focuses on a T-type-based power module and proposes a unique characterization platform and corresponding automation procedure and implementation. Considering the major characterization difference between T-type power modules over the conventional phase-leg power module, first, the special consideration for static characterization is highlighted. Second, the unique dynamic characterization design associated with the T-type power module is described. Finally, the automation of the power module characterization and the test platform is presented along with results and special considerations.