New module for industrial drives and more

Paul Boughton

Extension of MiniSKiiP family to IGBT half bridges for output currents up to 180ARMS helps reduce system costs by up to 15%.

User-friendly spring technology for the power and control terminals as well as the simple, cost-effective and solder-free single-screw assembly of the circuit board, cooling unit and module – these are the key benefits of the MiniSKiiP product family from power electronics manufacturer Semikron. The MiniSKiiP is primarily used in industrial motor drives, solar inverters and power supplies. Initially produced for the power range up to 40kW, the MiniSKiiP is now available for power ranges up to 90kW. The portfolio of the new modules covers 150-300A/650V, 150-300A/1200V and 100-300A/1700V.

For the first time, MiniSKiiP spring technology is available for power ratings higher than 40kW. The benefits: lower material costs as compared to traditional inverter designs because the expensive bus-baring of the load connectors can be replaced by a cost-efficient PCB connection. In combination with a fast, solder-free assembly, this allows for reducing the system costs by up to 15%. The spring contacts make the layout of the PCB simpler and more flexible because it does not need holes for soldering pins. Also, the springs allow for a more flexible connection between the PCB and the module than a soldered joint, which adds extra benefits, particularly under thermal and mechanical stress.

The MiniSKiiP Dual’s output of up to 90kW requires higher current-carrying capability of the PCB, which can, for example, be achieved by using a 105µm standard metal coating on the PCB. This allows for load currents up to 180ARMS, which used to be reserved for modules with screw-mounted busbars.