Soft-Switching Characterization of Medium-Voltage IGBT Power Modules and Press-Pack Diodes in a 1 kHz Mega-Watt dc/dc Resonant Converter

6.5kV IGBT power modules and line frequency press-pack diodes are proposed for a new mega-watt, medium voltage, resonant converter intended for DC wind turbines. The challenge of characterizing losses in soft-switching semiconductors - without building the full circuit - is overcome by a proposed test circuit and procedure that minimizes cost and complexity, yet subjects the device under test to similar use as in the target application. The paper describes the test method, and results obtained with it.