## SEMIKRON CLK100AA160 | Integrated PIM for High-Reliability Motor Drives
The SEMIKRON CLK100AA160 is an advanced Power Integrated Module (PIM) engineered for compact, efficient, and reliable power conversion systems. By integrating a three-phase input rectifier, a three-phase inverter, and a brake chopper into a single, robust package, this module provides a streamlined solution for engineers developing variable frequency drives and other motor control applications. Its core value lies in simplifying design, reducing assembly complexity, and enhancing overall system reliability.
Key Parameter Overview
This table provides a snapshot of the critical electrical and thermal characteristics of the CLK100AA160, offering engineers the essential data needed for system design and simulation. For a comprehensive breakdown of all parameters and performance curves, you can download the official datasheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCES) | 1200 V |
| Continuous Collector Current (IC) @ Tcase=80°C | 100 A |
| Configuration | Sixpack Inverter + Brake Chopper + Six-Pulse Rectifier |
| Inverter VCE(sat) (typ.) @ IC=100A, Tj=125°C | 1.9 V |
| Diode Forward Voltage (VF) (typ.) @ IF=100A, Tj=125°C | 1.8 V |
| Technology | Trench Fieldstop IGBTs, CAL Free-Wheeling Diodes |
| Integrated Features | NTC Temperature Sensor |
Technical Depth Analysis: The Core of Performance
The performance of the SEMIKRON CLK100AA160 is rooted in its advanced semiconductor technology. It leverages Trench Fieldstop IGBTs, which represent a significant leap forward from older planar designs. This architecture combines the low conduction losses of trench-gate structures with the fast switching capabilities of a field-stop layer. The direct engineering benefit is a reduction in both static and dynamic losses, leading to higher converter efficiency and lower operating temperatures. This is a crucial factor in achieving compact system designs, as it can reduce heatsink size and cooling requirements.
Complementing the IGBTs are the CAL (Controlled Axial Lifetime) free-wheeling diodes. These diodes are specifically engineered for soft switching behavior, which minimizes voltage overshoots and oscillations during turn-off. For the design engineer, this "softer" recovery characteristic simplifies the design of snubber circuits and reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI), leading to a more robust and compliant final product with fewer development cycles spent on EMC optimization.
Application Scenarios & Value Proposition
The integrated CIB (Converter-Inverter-Brake) topology of the CLK100AA160 makes it a cornerstone component for a range of power electronics applications:
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs): In VFDs, this single module replaces up to 13 discrete components (rectifier diodes, IGBTs, brake chopper). This drastically simplifies the power stage layout, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes potential points of failure, directly boosting the drive's long-term reliability.
- Industrial Pumps and Fans: For these applications, efficiency is paramount. The low VCE(sat) of the CLK100AA160 ensures minimal energy is wasted as heat, contributing to lower operational expenditures over the equipment's lifecycle.
- General-Purpose Inverters: The module's robust design and integrated NTC sensor provide the foundational elements for reliable power conversion. The sensor allows for precise thermal management, enabling the control system to implement over-temperature protection and ensure the device operates within its Safe Operating Area (SOA).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary advantage of using a PIM like the CLK100AA160 over discrete components?
The main advantage is system integration. A PIM (Power Integrated Module) consolidates the entire power conversion stage (AC-DC rectification and DC-AC inversion) into a single, factory-tested component. This reduces PCB complexity, lowers assembly time and cost, minimizes stray inductance for better performance, and improves overall system reliability by reducing the number of solder joints and mechanical connections.
How does the integrated NTC sensor enhance system design?
The integrated NTC thermistor provides a direct, real-time measurement of the module's baseplate temperature. This is far more accurate than an external sensor placed on the heatsink. It allows the drive's controller to implement precise over-temperature protection, preventing catastrophic failures. It also enables dynamic performance optimization, where the system can push the module to its thermal limits when needed and scale back power to maintain safety, maximizing the performance of the entire system.
For further exploration of IGBT modules and their internal workings, our guide on the IGBT working principle provides a detailed visual breakdown. If you have specific application requirements for the CLK100AA160, please contact our technical team for expert consultation.
