Modular Solution Simplifies Design Of PFC Front-End For Inverters In Energy-Efficient Air Conditioning Systems

Focus:

An intelligent power management (IPM) module has been developed to address power management challenges in energy-efficient air conditioning applications, which are requiring low cost, reliability, ease of design and power factor correction (PFC). The IPM, International Rectifier’s IRAM630-1562F, offers a complete power factor corrected front-end and IGBT-based inverter solution in a compact package--the design and application of this module is the focus of this article. The article begins by briefly discussing energy efficiency standards; how they drive the adoption of variable-speed compressor drives for air conditioners; why PFC is needed; power factor limits in the EU; and options for implementing PFC. With that background, the design and features of IR’s IPM are discussed with attention given to the module’s use of trench IGBTs. There are also some details about the gate driver IC, the open emitter configuration of the inverter, protection features and packaging. Finally, information on the application circuit including data on the PFC stage’s power dissipation and switching waveforms is provided. The possibility of incorporating GaN switches and rectifiers into this module in the future is briefly discussed.

What you’ll learn:

• How to implement an efficient, compact, power factor corrected inverter stage in variable-speed compressor drives for air conditioners
• How to understand PFC requirements for motor-driven equipment sold in the European Union
• How to understand the benefits of trench IGBTs in power factor corrected inverters for air conditioning applications

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Author & Publication:

Alberto Guerra, International Rectifier, El Segundo, Calif, How2Power Today, Jan 16 2014

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