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ROHM announced the adoption of power modules equipped with 4th generation SiC MOSFET bare chips for the traction inverters in three models of ZEEKR EV brand from Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely), a top 10 global automaker. Since 2023, these power modules have been mass produced and shipped from HAIMOSIC (SHANGHAI) Co., Ltd. – a joint venture between ROHM and Zhenghai Group Co., Ltd. to Viridi E-Mobility Technology (Ningbo) Co., Ltd, a Tier 1 manufacturer under Geely.
Geely and ROHM have been collaborating since 2018, beginning with technical exchanges, then later forming a strategic partnership focused on SiC power devices in 2021. This led to the integration of ROHM’s SiC MOSFETs into the traction inverters of three models: the ZEEKR X, 009, and 001. In each of these EVs, ROHM’s power solutions centered on SiC MOSFETs play a key role in extending the cruising range and enhancing overall performance.
ROHM is committed to advancing SiC technology, with plans to launch 5th generation SiC MOSFETs in 2025 while accelerating market introduction of 6th and 7th generation devices. What’s more, by offering SiC in various forms, including bare chips, discrete components, and modules, ROHM is able to promote the widespread adoption of SiC technology, contributing to the creation of a sustainable society.
Original – ROHM
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Texas Instruments (TI) and the U.S. Department of Commerce have signed a non-binding Preliminary Memorandum of Terms for up to $1.6 billion in proposed direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act to support three 300mm wafer fabs already under construction in Texas and Utah. In addition, TI expects to receive an estimated $6 billion to $8 billion from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Investment Tax Credit for qualified U.S. manufacturing investments. The proposed direct funding, coupled with the investment tax credit, would help TI provide a geopolitically dependable supply of essential analog and embedded processing semiconductors.
“The historic CHIPS Act is enabling more semiconductor manufacturing capacity in the U.S., making the semiconductor ecosystem stronger and more resilient,” said Haviv Ilan, president and CEO of Texas Instruments. “Our investments further strengthen our competitive advantage in manufacturing and technology as we expand our 300mm manufacturing operations in the U.S. With plans to grow our internal manufacturing to more than 95% by 2030, we’re building geopolitically dependable, 300mm capacity at scale to provide the analog and embedded processing chips our customers will need for years to come.”
Since its founding more than 90 years ago, TI has been advancing technology, pioneering the transition from vacuum tubes to transistors and then to integrated circuits. Today, TI is the largest U.S. analog and embedded processing semiconductor manufacturer. TI chips are essential in nearly every type of electronic device, from cars with advanced safety and intelligence systems to life-saving medical equipment and smart appliances that make homes safer and more efficient.
The proposed direct funding under the CHIPS Act would support TI’s investment of more than $18 billion through 2029, which is part of the company’s broader investment in manufacturing. This proposed direct funding will support three new wafer fabs, two in Sherman, Texas, (SM1 and SM2) and one in Lehi, Utah (LFAB2), specifically to:
- Construct and build the SM1 cleanroom and complete pilot line for first production;
- Construct and build the LFAB2 cleanroom for first production; and
- Construct the SM2 shell.
These connected, multi-fab sites benefit from shared infrastructure, talent and technology sharing, and a strong network of suppliers and community partners. They will produce semiconductors in 28nm to 130nm technology nodes, which provide the optimal cost, performance, power, precision and voltage levels required for TI’s broad portfolio of analog and embedded processing products.
“With this proposed investment from the Biden-Harris Administration in TI, a global leader of production for current-generation and mature-node chips, we would help secure the supply chain for these foundational semiconductors that are used in every sector of the U.S. economy, and create tens of thousands of jobs in Texas and Utah,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “The CHIPS for America program will supercharge American technology and innovation and make our country more secure – and TI is expected to be an important part of the success of the Biden-Harris Administration’s work to revitalize semiconductor manufacturing and development in the U.S.”
With a long history of supporting its employees to build long-term, successful careers, TI is also investing in building its future workforce. TI will create more than 2,000 company jobs across its three new fabs in Texas and Utah, along with thousands of indirect jobs for construction, suppliers and supporting industries.
“We are proud to work with Texas Instruments as they build new semiconductor fabs in Sherman and solidify Texas as the best state for semiconductors. Texas Instruments invented the microchip in Texas, and we are honored to be home to TI’s semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Dallas, Richardson and Sherman,” said Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. “With this latest project, TI is building on its more than 90-year legacy in Texas and adding thousands of good-paying jobs for Texans to manufacture critically important technology.”
“By investing in semiconductor manufacturing, we are helping secure this vulnerable supply chain, boosting our national security and global competitiveness, and creating new jobs for Texans,” said U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. “The chipmaking capabilities these resources will enable at Texas Instruments will help the U.S. reclaim its leadership role in the critically important semiconductor industry, and I look forward to seeing more Texas-led advancements in the years to come.”
In order to build a future-ready workforce, TI is enhancing the skills of current employees, expanding internships and creating pipeline programs with a focus on building electronic and mechanical skills. TI has robust engagements with 40 community colleges, high schools and military institutions across the U.S. to develop future semiconductor talent.
“Utah is thrilled that Texas Instruments is expanding its manufacturing presence in the Silicon Slopes, furthering the impact Utahns have on critical semiconductor technology,” said Utah Gov. Spencer Cox. “This investment in semiconductor manufacturing not only creates more jobs, but also brings supply chains back to the United States.”
“This proposed CHIPS funding will further support Texas Instruments’ investment in its new semiconductor fab in Lehi —and enhance Utah’s vital role in our national defense and economic success,” said U.S. Senator Mitt Romney. “I was an original sponsor of the CHIPS and Science Act—which made today’s announcement possible—because in order to compete on the world stage, we must continue to promote innovation, foster scientific talent, and expand research here at home. Texas Instruments’ expanded operations will help make the United States more self-reliant for chips essential to our national security and economy.”
TI has a long-standing commitment to responsible, sustainable manufacturing and environmental stewardship. As part of this commitment, TI continually invests in its fabrication processes and equipment to reduce energy, material and water consumption, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The company’s 300mm wafer fabs will be entirely powered by renewable electricity. Additionally, all of TI’s new 300mm fabs are designed to meet LEED Gold standards for structural efficiency and sustainability. TI’s 300mm manufacturing facilities bring advantages in reducing waste and improving water and energy consumption per chip.
TI semiconductors are and will increasingly play a critical role in helping reduce the impact on the environment, helping customers create smaller, more efficient and cost-effective technology solutions that in turn drive continued innovation in electrification and the expanded usage of renewable energy.
Original – Texas Instruments
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As global decarbonization efforts drive demand for power semiconductors, Infineon Technologies AG has officially opened the first phase of a new fab in Malaysia that will become the world’s largest and most competitive 200-millimeter silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductor fab. Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Minister of the state of Kedah YAB Dato’ Seri Haji Muhammad Sanusi Haji Mohd Nor joined Infineon CEO Jochen Hanebeck, to symbolically launch production.
The highly efficient 200-millimeter SiC power fab will strengthen Infineon’s role as the global leader in power semiconductors. The first phase of the fab, with an investment volume of two billion euros, will focus on the production of silicon carbide power semiconductors and will include gallium nitride (GaN) epitaxy. SiC semiconductors have revolutionized high-power applications because they switch electricity even more efficiently and enable even smaller designs.
SiC semiconductors increase efficiency in electric vehicles, fast charging stations and trains as well as renewable energy systems and AI data centers. 900 high-value jobs will be created already in the first phase. The second phase, with an investment of up to five billion euros, will create the world’s largest and most efficient 200-millimeter SiC power fab. Overall, up to 4.000 jobs will be created with the project.
“New generations of power semiconductors based on innovative technology such as silicon carbide are an absolute prerequisite to achieving decarbonization and climate protection. Our technology increases the energy efficiency of ubiquitous applications such as electric cars, solar and wind power systems and AI data centers. We are therefore investing in the largest and most efficient high-tech SiC production facility in Malaysia, backed by strong customer commitments,” said Jochen Hanebeck, CEO of Infineon Technologies AG. “Since the demand for semiconductors will constantly rise, the investment in Kulim is highly attractive to our customers, who are backing it with their prepayments. It also increases the resilience of the supply chain for critical components needed for the green transition.”
“Infineon’s remarkable project reinforces Malaysia’s position as a rising major global semiconductor hub” says Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. “This major investment, which will locate the world’s largest and most competitive SiC power fab on our shores, will create jobs and opportunities, as well as attract suppliers, universities and top talent. Moreover, it will support Malaysia’s efforts to protect our climate by boosting electrification and increasing the efficiency of many applications, including electric cars and renewable energy. Thus, technology made in Malaysia will become a central part of global decarbonization efforts in the future.”
“Infineon’s deeply rooted presence in Kulim is a testament to the region’s potential as a hub for high-tech industries,” says Kedah Chief Minister YAB Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor. “This investment will not only create high-value job opportunities for the local community, it will also catalyze economic growth in the region. We are committed to continue providing top business conditions in Kedah and supporting Infineon’s efforts to establish a leading semiconductor facility in Kulim, which will have a positive ripple effect on the entire ecosystem.”
Infineon has secured design wins with a total value of approximately five billion euros and has received approximately one billion euros in prepayments from existing and new customers for the ongoing expansion of the Kulim 3 fab. Notably, these design wins include six OEMs in the automotive sector as well as customers in the renewable energy and industrial segments.
Kulim 3 will be closely connected to the Infineon site in Villach, Austria, Infineon’s global competence center for power semiconductors. Infineon already increased capacity for SiC and GaN power semiconductors in Villach in 2023. As “One Virtual Fab” for wide-bandgap technologies, both manufacturing sites now share technologies and processes which allow for fast ramping and smooth and highly efficient operation. The project also offers a high grade of resilience and flexibility, which will ultimately benefit Infineon’s customers.
The expansion will benefit from the excellent economies of scale already achieved for 200-millimeter manufacturing in Kulim. It will complement Infineon’s leading position in silicon, based on 300-millimeter manufacturing in Villach and Dresden. Thus, Infineon is strengthening its technological leadership across the entire spectrum of power semiconductors, in silicon as well as SiC and GaN.
In addition, the investment in wide-bandgap capacity in Kulim strengthens the local ecosystem and proves that Infineon is a reliable partner within the growing semiconductor hub Malaysia. Infineon’s operations in Malaysia started as early as 1973 in Melaka. In 2006, the company opened Asia’s first frontend fab in Kulim. Currently, Infineon employs more than 16.000 highly skilled people in Malaysia.
The Kulim 3 fab will be powered by 100% green electricity and will employ the latest energy efficiency measures to support Infineon’s goal of carbon neutrality. To avoid emissions, Infineon will use a state-of-the-art abatement system and green refrigerants that combine high efficiency with extremely low global warming potential. Other measures to ensure sustainable operations include state-of-the-art recycling of indirect materials and state-of-the-art water efficiency and recycling processes. Infineon is working towards recognition with the renowned Green Building Index certification.
Original – Infineon Technologies
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Dominic Dorfner, Senior Vice President of the Automotive Division in Semikron Danfoss, will take over as President, when Claus A. Petersen retires on August 31, after 40 years in the Danfoss Group – the last 26 years leading Danfoss Silicon Power and Semikron Danfoss.
Dominic Dorfner has been named new President of Semikron Danfoss – a leading global manufacturer of power electronics based in Germany and part of the Danfoss Group. Dominic Dorfner joined Semikron Danfoss in 2021 as Head of the Industry Business in Danfoss Silicon Power. For the past 13 months he has been leading the Automotive Division in Semikron Danfoss.
Chairman of the Semikron Danfoss Board, Danfoss Power Electronics and Drives Segment president Mika Kulju says:
“The Board of Directors for Semikron Danfoss are very pleased that Dominic Dorfner has accepted the role as President. It is an important continuation of the work that has been done in Semikron Danfoss since the company was established two years ago with the merger of Danfoss Silicon Power and SEMIKRON. We are very excited to be working with him to continue the growth and realizing the huge potential for Semikron Danfoss in energy efficiency, in electrification, and in green energy.
Dominic Dorfner is taking over for Claus A. Petersen – a renowned name in the power electronics industry.
Claus A. Petersen has been with Danfoss for more than 40 years. He was named President of Semikron Danfoss when the merger was finalized in 2022. Before the merger he was leading Danfoss Silicon Power, a position he has held since the company was established in Schleswig-Holstein in 1998 with, at that time only around 20 employees. Today, Semikron Danfoss has around 4,000 global employees and annual sales over EUR 1 billion.
Though now retiring as company President, Claus A. Petersen is not completely leaving Semikron Danfoss, as he has joined the Board of Directors.
“We are fully committed to the ambitions and the strategy for Semikron Danfoss that has been developed under Claus’ leadership. I want to extend a big thank you to him, both for what he has accomplished, and for accepting to join the Board. This will ensure a very smooth and proficient transition,” says Mika Kulju, and continues: “Dominic Dorfner has big shoes to fill, but he has all the needed qualities to do so, and strong teams around him.”
Efficient power electronics are vital for decarbonization. Yet another reason why the new President of Semikron Danfoss is really excited about the challenge ahead.
Says Dominic Dorfner:
“Our purpose is to enable a huge transformation towards a CO2 neutral world for us and our kids. To do so, we need extensive electrification, we need green energy, and we need to save energy much more through energy efficiency. All that needs power electronics with the best power modules and systems out there. We can provide that, and I can’t think of a better reason to wake up early and go to work.”
First day in the new role for Dominic Dorfner will be September 1, 2024.
Original – Semikron Danfoss
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Many different trends are taking center stage in both consumer electronics and industrial applications, such as portability, electrification, and weight reduction. All of these trends require compact and efficient designs. They also go hand in hand with unconventional PCB designs with severe space constraints that limit the use of external components.
To address these challenges, Infineon Technologies AG expands its GaN portfolio with the CoolGaN™ Drive product family. It consists of the CoolGaN Drive 700 V G5 single switches, integrating one transistor plus gate driver in PQFN 5×6 and PQFN 6×8 packages, as well as the CoolGaN Drive HB 600 V G5 devices, combining two transistors with integrated high- and low-side gate drivers in a LGA 6×8 package. The new product family enables improved efficiency, reduced system size, and overall cost savings. This makes the devices suitable for longer-range e-bikes, portable power tools, and lighter-weight household appliances such as vacuums, fans, and hairdryers.
“For several years, Infineon has been focused on accelerating innovation in GaN to provide targeted solutions for real-world power challenges”, said Johannes Schoiswohl, Senior Vice President & General Manager, GaN Systems Business Line Head at Infineon. “The new CoolGaN Drive product family is another proof point of how we support our customers in developing compact designs with high power density and efficiency through GaN.”
The CoolGaN Drive family offers a wide range of single switches and half bridges with integrated drivers based on the recently announced CoolGaN Transistors 650 V G5. Depending on the product group, the components feature a bootstrap diode and are characterized by loss-free current measurement, and adjustable switch-on and switch-off dV/dt. They also provide OCP/OTP/SCP protection functions. As a result, the devices enable higher switching frequencies, leading to smaller and more efficient system solutions with high power density. At the same time, the bill of materials (BoM) is reduced. This not only results in a lower system weight, but also reduces the carbon footprint.
Samples of the half-bridge solutions are available now. Single-switch samples will be available starting Q4 2024. Further information is available at www.infineon.com/GaN-innovations.
Original – Infineon Technologies
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According to a survey by Global Market Insights, Super Junction MOSFETs captured over 30% market share in the energy and power sector in 2023. Their applications span multiple domains, including electric vehicle charging stations, server and data center power supplies, LED drivers, solar inverters and home appliance controls.
The global Super Junction MOSFET market is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 11.5% by 2032. Super Junction MOSFETs offers robust assurance to customers seeking exceptional performance and stability backed by WeEn’s well-established reliability standards, comprehensive supply chain systems and continuously evolving technological roadmaps.
WeEn currently offers two series of Super Junction MOSFETs: G1 and G2. G2 Super Junction MOSFETs feature advanced design improvements, such as reduced cell pitch, low-resistance epitaxial layers, and shorter P-column depths. These innovations significantly reduce the device’s on-state resistance.
Simultaneously, WeEn precisely controlled the charge balance of the super junction structure, ensuring excellent avalanche ruggedness and low capacitive losses. This results in a balanced, outstanding performance in both hard and soft-switching applications that demand high efficiency, reliability, and superior thermal management.
The WSJ2M60R065D is one of the flagship products in WeEn’s G2 Super Junction MOSFET lineup. Available in various packages including TO-220, TO-220F, TO-247, and TOLL. It particularly excels in terms of on-state resistance. Compared to competitors’ products, the WSJ2M60R065D maintains more stable on-state resistance across different current densities. Within its maximum continuous current range, the resistance variation does not exceed 10%. This stability provides customers with reliable performance data. Furthermore, the WSJ2M60R065D adapts well to applications with varying power requirements, demonstrating exceptional performance across diverse and complex operating environments.
WeEn’s G2 MOSFETs are at the forefront of performance, with their Figure of Merit (FOM) on par with top global competitors. While ensuring stringent yield and process control, WeEn reserves more breakdown voltage margin for customers. 600V devices approach the standards of 650V devices available on the market, thoroughly safeguarding the reliability of customer applications. Moreover, the G2 MOSFET integrates a finely tuned fast recovery body diode, with a reverse recovery time (Trr) of only 123 ns. The body diode can withstand a commutation speed of 1000 A/μs without damage. This makes the WSJ2M60R065D particularly suitable for Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) applications in soft-switching topologies, delivering high efficiency while handling irregular operating conditions.
However, the WSJ2M60R065D is not limited to soft-switching applications. It also demonstrates excellent performance in hard-switching applications. The WSJ2M60R065D offers significant advantages in terms of lower capacitive losses (Eoss) compared to top competitors. Additionally, its normalized ruggedness is significantly higher than the industry standard, enabling it to withstand higher overvoltage and oscillation. It also demonstrates stable and safe performance in hard-switching topologies such as Power Factor Correction (PFC) circuits.
WeEn consistently adheres to rigorous and reliable quality assessment practices. In accelerated aging tests, the company maintains a zero-tolerance policy for product failures. WeEn MOSFET products demonstrate excellent consistency in performance during high-temperature stress aging tests at 168, 500, and 1000 hours. Furthermore, WeEn conducts additional reviews of the ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) capability of the device to minimize quality issues during production, packaging, and transportation. The WSJ2M60R065D demonstrates a robust quality level with a CDM (Charged Device Model) capability exceeding 2000V and an HBM (Human Body Model) capability of over 4000V.
Original – WeEn Semiconductors
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VisIC Technologies Ltd. has partnered with Heraeus Electronics and PINK to develop an advanced power module utilizing D3GaN technology. This groundbreaking power module is based on a silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) ceramic substrate, an innovative silver (Ag) sintering process and advanced top side interconnect, promising unprecedented reliability and performance for battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
The collaboration brings together VisIC’s expertise in GaN-based devices, Heraeus Electronics’ cutting-edge packaging materials know-how, and PINK’s state-of-the-art sintering technology. The synergy of these industry leaders has culminated in the development of a power module that is setting new standards for GaN based power modules to revolutionize the EV industry.
VisIC’s D3GaN technology is at the heart of this power module, offering significant improvements in efficiency, thermal management, and power density. This technology leverages the superior electrical properties of gallium nitride to deliver faster switching speeds and higher power handling capabilities compared to traditional silicon-based devices.
The use of a Si₃N₄ metal ceramic substrate is a key innovation in this power module. Si₃N₄ is known for its excellent thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and reliability under high-temperature conditions. These properties are crucial for the demanding environment of electric vehicle applications, ensuring the power module can withstand the rigors of everyday use while maintaining optimal performance.
The adoption of the silver sintering process by PINK enhances the thermal and electrical conductivity of the module. Silver sintering is a low-temperature bonding process that creates robust and reliable connections between components, improving the module’s overall durability and efficiency. This process is critical for the high reliability required in EV powertrains, where consistent performance is non-negotiable.
The resulting power module is designed to meet the stringent reliability and performance standards of the electric vehicle industry. Its advanced materials and innovative construction techniques ensure it can deliver the high-power density of over 500Arms/650V and efficiency needed for modern BEVs, while also offering long-term reliability and durability at a cost point near silicon devices.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the advancement of power electronics for electric vehicles. The integration of VisIC’s D3GaN technology with Heraeus Electronics’ sintering paste and PINK’s Ag and Cu sintering process and flexible sintering equipment sets a new benchmark for power module performance in the EV market. This innovation is expected to drive the adoption of GaN technology in EV applications, paving the way for more efficient, reliable, and sustainable electric transportation solutions.
Tamara Baksht, CEO of VisIC, state: “We are thrilled to work with the leading manufacturer of sintering processes of Heraeus Electronics and PINK and adapt their experience into GaN based power modules to develop the next generation of power module for high volume automotive inverter applications.”
PINK, Andrea Pink, CEO of PINK statement: “We are excited to work with such a future driven company as VisIC together with our long-term partner Heraeus Electronics, supporting the newest product innovation for GaN applications.”
Heraeus Electronics Dr. Michael Jörger, EVP Head of Business Line Power Electronic Materials added: “With our materials, application know-how and engineering services we are glad to work with our partners on speeding up the innovative approach of highly efficient GaN modules for automotive applications.”
Original – VisIC Technologies
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Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation and Toshiba Corporation (Toshiba Group) have developed technology that mitigates the parasitic oscillation that occurs during switching operations by power modules with silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs connected in parallel, even with a 60% smaller gate resistance than is typical. The technology reduces power loss in power modules, mitigates oscillation, and realizes highly reliable switching operations.
The drive for carbon neutrality is stimulating demand for technologies that improve energy efficiency in many areas, including renewables, railways, and industrial equipment. In these sectors, the application of power modules built around SiC MOSFETs is seen as a solution that supports high-speed switching at high voltages and large currents—which is particularly important for the miniaturization of power converters, where higher switching frequencies result in higher rates of switching losses against power consumption.
Connecting multiple chips in parallel in power modules can form oscillation circuits, the result of wiring inductance between the chips and their parasitic capacitance. It can reduce module reliability if not countered, which is usually done by increasing gate resistance. However, this approach slows switching speed, resulting in a trade-off with switching losses. For power modules with SiC MOSFETs to perform high-speed switching, another approach is needed.
Toshiba Group used an equivalent circuit model of the power module (Figure 1) to determine the theoretical condition that triggers parasitic oscillation, and developed a wiring layout less likely to cause it. This was done by analyzing simulations of parasitic oscillation occurs when Lg/Ls, the ratio of gate-to-gate inductance Lg and source-to-source inductance Ls of parallel chips, is below a certain value (Figure 2). As increasing Lg/Ls is an effective means of mitigating parasitic oscillation, Toshiba Group fabricated prototype modules with different Lg/Ls and measured switching. This confirmed that increasing Lg/Ls mitigated oscillation, even with a 60% smaller gate resistance than that required by the alternative approach of increasing gate resistance (Figure 3).
Applying this approach to oscillation mitigation in power modules now under development has realized a power module less likely to cause parasitic oscillation, even with minimal gate resistance, that achieves low power loss with mitigated oscillation, and delivers highly reliable switching operation. Toshiba Group will continue to make refine the modules toward an early product launch.
Toshiba Group presented the details of this technology on June 6 at the 36th International Symposium on Power Semiconductor Devices and ICs (ISPSD) 2024, an international power semiconductor conference held in Bremen, Germany from June 2 to 6.
Figure 1. Model equivalent circuit of two MOSFETs connected in parallel 
Figure 2. Simulation of oscillation in two MOSFETs with zero gate resistance connected in parallel 
Vgs: Gate-Source voltage, Vds: Drain-Source voltage, Id: Drain current
Figure 3. Switching waveforms and switching losses of the prototype modules (Source: Toshiba Group tests) Original – Toshiba
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onsemi has signed a multi-year deal with Volkswagen Group to be the primary supplier of a complete power box solution as part of its next-generation traction inverter for its Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). The solution features silicon carbide-based technologies in an integrated module that can scale across all power levels – from high power to low power traction inverters to be compatible for all vehicle categories.
“By offering a complete power system solution that encompasses the entire power sub-assembly, we provide Volkswagen Group with a single, simplified modular and scalable platform that maximizes efficiency and performance for their vehicle lineup,” said Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of onsemi. “This new approach allows for the customization of power needs and the addition of features for different vehicles without compromising on performance, all while reducing cost.”
Based on the EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs, onsemi’s unique power box solution can handle more power in a smaller package which significantly reduces energy losses. The inclusion of three integrated half-bridge modules mounted on a cooling channel will further improve system efficiency by ensuring heat is effectively managed from the semiconductor to the coolant encasement.
This leads to better performance, improved heat control, and increased efficiency, allowing EVs to drive further on a single charge. By using this integrated solution, Volkswagen Group will be able to easily transition to future EliteSiC-based platforms and remain at the forefront of EV innovation.
“We are very pleased to have onsemi as a strategic supplier for the power box of the traction inverter for our first tranche in the SSP platform. onsemi has convinced us with a deeply verticalized supply chain from the growth of the raw material up to the assembly of the power box,” said Mr. Dirk Große-Loheide, Member of the Extended Executive Committee Group Procurement and Member of the Board Volkswagen Brand for “Procurement”.
Mr. Till von Bothmer, Senior Vice President VW Group Procurement for Powertrain added, “On top of the verticalization, onsemi has furthermore provided a resilient supply concept with regional silicon carbide fabs across Asia, Europe and the U.S. In addition, onsemi will continuously provide the latest SiC generation to ensure competitiveness.
Volkswagen Group will also benefit from onsemi’s planned investment to expand its silicon carbide manufacturing in the Czech Republic. The investment would establish an end-to-end production facility in Europe for the traction inverter power system. The proximity of onsemi’s facility would fortify Volkswagen Group’s supply chain while improving logistics and allowing for faster integration into the manufacturing process.
Original – onsemi
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Infineon Technologies AG announced that its CoolSiC™ 2000 V modules have been selected by Daihen Corporation for their innovative unit-type power conditioners for grid storage batteries. In the journey towards reducing carbon emissions, both grid storage batteries and the power conditioners that are linked to them play a vital role in facilitating the wider adoption of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power generation.
There has been an increasing demand for higher voltage storage batteries and power conditioners to enhance the effectiveness of power generation, storage, and transmission. Moreover, with the expansion of storage battery systems on a larger scale, finding suitable locations and minimizing construction costs have emerged as significant challenges.
The unit-type power conditioner for grid storage batteries launched by Daihen in March 2024 is the first product in the industry to achieve connection to storage batteries at a high DC link voltage of 1500 V. The higher voltage enables the product to be used with large-capacity storage battery facilities, which has resulted in a 40% reduction in the footprint of grid storage batteries compared to the conventional product.
The high power density is achieved by using Infineon’s 62 mm CoolSiC MOSFET 2000 V module (FF3MR20KM1H). In addition to the characteristics of SiC that enable high voltage, better thermal dissipation and high power density, Infineon’s SiC products feature M1H trench technology that increases the gate drive voltage range and provides high robustness and reliability against gate voltage spikes. Infineon was the pioneer in the industry to introduce the 2000 V class for a SiC module. This innovation has been instrumental in simplifying the inverter circuit configuration. Furthermore, the optimized 62 mm package has led to a substantial reduction in system size, contributing to enhanced efficiency and performance.
Mr. Akihiro Ohori, General Manager, Development Department, Energy Management System Division, Daihen, said, “In order to increase the voltage of power conditioners, the circuit configuration of conventional 1200 V devices had become complicated. However, by adopting Infineon’s 2000 V SiC modules, we were able to achieve a simplified circuit configuration and control design, thereby reducing development resources and the footprint.”
Masanori Fujimori, Marketing Director of the Industrial & Infrastructure Segment at Infineon Technologies Japan, said, “We are very pleased that our pioneering CoolSiC 2000 V module has contributed to the development of the industry’s highest power density power conditioners for grid storage batteries. We believe that Infineon’s SiC technology will address the need for higher efficiency in energy storage systems and will greatly contribute to the growth of renewable energy.”
Original – Infineon Technologies
