Extreme operation of IGBTs

This paper investigates the feasibility of utilizing IGBTs under extreme operating conditions which exceed their datasheet current rating by a factor of 5-10. Various types of 1200V/100A rated IGBTs experimentally demonstrated a peak current conduction capability greater than 1000A, and an RBSOA of 1200V/800A. The work is motivated by power converters with a large peak to nominal load ratio such as EV drivetrains, or infrequent and short pulse high power applications.