State of the art of integrated power modules (IPMs) for 0.75 kW and 2 kW drive applications

This paper presents a review of the state of the art of integrated power modules (IPMs) for 0.75 kW and 2 kW industrial motor drive applications from the user's perspective. The results of a literature review are presented which address trends and reliability issues. Eleven commercial IPMs were analysed in terms of their complexity, electrical and thermal performance, build and manufacturability, all factors, which would influence their use and reliability. In addition results of thermal simulations are presented which compare the dynamic behaviour of the most common module build options in overload operation.