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| Another explanation of the power module |
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When you need a powerful high-power switching solution, the power module is usually your better choice. The power module is a high-power electrical component that contains single or multiple components, which are combined into a functionally independent unit. They usually have a bottom plate for mounting heat sinks and electrical contacts for quick and easy installation and removal. By manufacturing components as modules, it is possible to improve power handling capability, reliability, and reduce parasitic circuit elements.
Common power modules include transistors and diodes. Metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFET), insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBT) and silicon controlled rectifiers (SCR) are the most common switching elements used as power modules. Some power modules combine transistors into common configurations, including half-bridge and H-bridge configurations. These configurations allow the user to easily switch the direction of current through the motor from a single voltage source. More complex modules containing up to six transistors can also be used in inverter applications¡ªconverting direct current to alternating current¡ªcommonly found in renewable or ¡°green¡± energy systems.
Diode power modules are also provided, and single, double or other configurations are available. Bridge rectifiers are a common use of diodes to convert alternating current to direct current. Four diodes can be used as a bridge rectifier for single-phase alternating current, and six diodes can be used as a rectifier for three-phase current. Both single-phase and three-phase bridge rectifiers can be conveniently used in power modules for easy use and replacement.
Like other technologies, power modules are constantly evolving to better respond to engineering challenges and simplify their use. Smart power module is one of the latest developments in power module technology. These modules usually contain an IGBT with additional control and protection circuits. The control circuit provides a drive circuit for switching the IGBT and gate drive logic to allow simple turn-on and turn-off. The intelligent power module protection circuit can prevent problems caused by high temperature, over current, short circuit and under voltage conditions.
The electrical components contained in the power module are usually encapsulated in plastic with a metal bottom plate for adequate cooling when required under high power conditions. Historically, power modules used screw contacts. Recently, pins and press-fit contacts have also been available. The electrical contacts on the power module allow high current and high voltage to be used without welding. This simplifies installation, removal and replacement.
Power modules are widely used in electric vehicles and other motor controllers, electrical appliances, power supplies, electroplating machinery, medical equipment, battery chargers, AC and DC inverters and converters, power switches and welding equipment. Most high-power switching applications can be implemented using power modules to gain the advantages they can provide.
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