Addressing two of the major barriers for electric vehicle (EV) adoption, charging time and the range a vehicle can travel before charging, onsemi has announced the APM32 series of silicon-carbide- (SiC) based power modules. The three new SiC power modules are designed for high-power 11-22 kW on-board chargers (OBCs).
Onsemi claims it is the first in the industry to use SiC in a transfer molded package that delivers enhanced efficiency and a shorter charge time. The boost in efficiency and lower heat generation charge all types of EVs faster and increase a vehicle’s operating range, said the company.
The APM32 series NVXK2TR40WXT and NVXK2TR80WDT modules are used for onboard charging and HV DC/DC conversion. They are configured in H-bridge topology with a breakdown (V(BR)DSS) capability of 1200 V, suitable for high-voltage battery stacks. The third module, the NVXK2KR80WDT, is configured in a Vienna Rectifier topology and is used in the power factor correction (PFC) stage of onboard charging.
(Source: onsemi)
Key features of the APM32 modules include serialization for full traceability, low conduction and switching losses and, according to onsemi, best-in-class thermal resistance and high voltage isolation. They are capable of handling an 800-V bus voltage and because they are SiC-based, junction temperatures as high as 175°C for reliability even in challenging, space-constrained automotive applications.
The use of SiC technology delivers a unique combination of greater power efficiency, smaller size, lighter weight, and lower overall cost, said onsemi. In automotive applications it enables high thermal conductivity and shock resistance, low thermal expansion, low power and switching losses and high operating frequency and temperature.
The power modules are housed in a compact DIP package, ensuring low module resistance. Top cool and isolated features meet stringent automotive industry standards, while creepage and clearance distances meet IEC 60664-1 and IEC 60950-1. The modules are qualified to AEC-Q101 and AQG 324 for automotive use.
The APM32 series is currently available. Six-pack and full-bridge modules will be added to the SiC OBC portfolio in the future.
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