Gate Driver Enhances ESS Power with Temperature Measurement

Power Integrations has introduced a new dual-channel gate driver on a single board featuring an integrated temperature sensor, aimed at enhancing power efficiency in various applications. The SCALE-iFlex XLT dual-channel plug-and-play gate driver family is designed to work seamlessly with popular IGBT modules such as LV100 (Mitsubishi), XHP 2 (Infineon), and HPnC (Fuji Electric), supporting blocking voltages of up to 2300 V. This innovation is particularly beneficial for wind, energy storage, and solar renewable energy installations.

The inclusion of an NTC temperature readout in the gate driver not only improves accuracy but also boosts reliability and module utilization by up to 30 percent. By offering an isolated NTC readout, the complexity of hardware is reduced significantly, eliminating the need for multiple cables, connectors, and additional isolation barrier crossing circuits.

Thorsten Schmidt, product marketing manager at Power Integrations, highlighted the challenges involved in developing a single-board gate driver for the latest 'new dual' style IGBT modules. He explained, "The SCALE-iFlex XLT gate drivers are designed to fit inside the outline of the module, enabling them to be mounted directly on the module. This feature provides converter system designers with a high degree of mechanical design flexibility."

The compact single-board gate driver, measuring 98 x 65.5mm and 31.3mm high, incorporates 160 components, offering a more streamlined solution compared to traditional setups with over 250 components in a larger footprint. This design approach not only saves space but also enhances overall system efficiency.

Furthermore, the gate driver utilizes the SCALE-2 chip set, which helps minimize component count and improve reliability. In the event of a short-circuit, the gate driver board provides protection for the power switches, ensuring safe and reliable operation. The product is currently available for sampling, offering customers the opportunity to experience its benefits firsthand.