CM1200DC-34N Mitsubishi 1700V 1200A N-Series IGBT Module

Content last revised on January 4, 2026

Harnessing Megawatt Power: A Technical Review of the Mitsubishi Electric CM1200DC-34N IGBT Module

Introduction: Engineering for Extreme Power Density and Reliability

The Mitsubishi Electric CM1200DC-34N is an N-Series high-power IGBT module engineered to meet the rigorous demands of multi-megawatt power conversion systems. With core specifications of 1700V and 1200A, this device provides the robust performance necessary for high-reliability inverters and drives. Key engineering benefits include exceptional current handling for high-output applications and a thermally efficient design that supports sustained operation under heavy loads. This module directly addresses the challenge of achieving high power density without compromising operational lifespan in systems like large-scale renewable energy inverters. For industrial drives and renewable energy systems prioritizing maximum power throughput and long-term reliability, this 1700V module presents an optimal engineering solution.

Key Parameter Overview

Decoding the Specs for Enhanced Thermal Management and Electrical Performance

The technical specifications of the CM1200DC-34N underscore its suitability for high-stress, high-power applications. The parameters have been carefully balanced to deliver efficiency, robustness, and superior thermal stability. The following table highlights key metrics that are critical for system design and performance evaluation.

Download the CM1200DC-34N datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.

Application Scenarios & Value

Achieving System-Level Benefits in Megawatt-Scale Power Conversion

The CM1200DC-34N is engineered for applications where high voltage and extreme current are standard operating conditions. Its design provides tangible value in scenarios demanding both high efficiency and unwavering reliability.

A primary application is in the nacelle of a multi-megawatt wind turbine, where the module forms the core of the main grid-tie inverter. In this environment, the engineering challenge is to maximize power extraction while withstanding significant thermal and electrical stress. The module's 1200A continuous current rating allows the inverter to handle the immense power generated by the turbine, even during peak wind gusts. Critically, its low thermal resistance (Rth(j-c)Q of 19.0 K/kW) ensures efficient heat dissipation—a vital attribute in the often space-constrained and thermally challenging nacelle. This superior thermal performance translates directly to enhanced system reliability and a longer operational lifespan, reducing the need for costly offshore maintenance. The ability to manage such high power levels efficiently makes it a cornerstone component for renewable energy grid integration. For systems operating on lower voltage buses but requiring even greater current, the CM1400DU-24NF offers a 1200V rating with a 1400A capacity.

• Large-Scale Industrial Motor Drives: Ideal for controlling multi-megawatt motors used in mining, material processing, and marine propulsion systems.
• Utility-Scale Solar Inverters: Provides the necessary power handling and voltage headroom for central inverters in large solar farm installations.
• Grid Infrastructure: Suitable for use in static synchronous compensators (STATCOM) and other flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) that require robust, high-power switching.
• High-Power Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Ensures reliable power for data centers and critical industrial facilities.

Technical Deep Dive

An Analysis of Internal Construction and Thermal Pathway Optimization

The performance of the CM1200DC-34N is fundamentally rooted in Mitsubishi Electric's advanced IGBT chip technology and a package designed for optimal thermal efficiency. The module incorporates N-Series chip technology, which is engineered to reduce the collector-emitter saturation voltage (VCE(sat)) even at high current densities. This low VCE(sat) of 2.40V at 1200A directly minimizes conduction losses, which are the dominant source of heat generation in high-current DC states. Think of VCE(sat) as the "friction" the current encounters inside the switch; lower friction means less energy is wasted as heat, improving overall inverter efficiency.

Furthermore, the module's construction is optimized to create an efficient thermal pathway from the silicon chip to the system's heatsink. The low junction-to-case thermal resistance is achieved through careful selection of baseplate and substrate materials, ensuring rapid heat transfer away from the active semiconductor. This is analogous to having a wider, shorter pipe for heat to escape—the less resistance it faces, the faster it can be removed. This focus on thermal management is critical, as it directly influences the module's long-term reliability and its ability to withstand demanding power cycling conditions found in applications like wind power generation.

Industry Insights & Strategic Advantage

Meeting the Demands of Electrification and Renewable Energy Expansion

The push toward global decarbonization and industrial efficiency places immense pressure on power electronics. The CM1200DC-34N is strategically positioned to address these trends. In the renewable energy sector, particularly wind and solar, the trend is toward higher power capacity per inverter to reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). This module's 1700V / 1200A rating enables the design of more powerful and power-dense inverters, reducing the overall system footprint and installation costs. Similarly, in heavy industry, the electrification of processes and the adoption of high-power Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are key to improving energy efficiency. The robust performance of the CM1200DC-34N provides the reliability needed for these mission-critical applications, ensuring uptime and contributing to lower operational expenditures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the primary advantage of the 1700V collector-emitter voltage rating?

The 1700V rating provides a substantial safety margin for systems operating on DC bus voltages up to 1200V. This is critical for applications like large motor drives or renewable inverters connected to medium-voltage grids, where voltage spikes during switching events are common. The higher voltage rating ensures greater system robustness and reliability.

How does the Rth(j-c) of 19.0 K/kW impact thermal design?

This low thermal resistance value simplifies the thermal management system. It indicates that heat is transferred very efficiently from the IGBT chip to the module's baseplate. For engineers, this means a smaller, more cost-effective heatsink can be used, or alternatively, it provides greater thermal headroom for operating at higher ambient temperatures or higher power outputs without exceeding the maximum junction temperature.

Is the CM1200DC-34N suitable for paralleling to achieve higher current?

Yes, high-power modules like the CM1200DC-34N are designed with characteristics that facilitate paralleling. However, successful implementation requires careful gate drive design to ensure synchronized switching and a balanced layout of busbars to equalize stray inductances and ensure even current distribution among the modules. Consulting the manufacturer's application notes on paralleling IGBTs is essential for reliable operation.

What is the significance of the 4000Vrms isolation voltage?

The 4000Vrms isolation rating ensures a high degree of electrical safety, isolating the high-voltage power circuit from the low-voltage control electronics and the module's mounting baseplate. This is a critical safety feature that protects both equipment and personnel and is essential for meeting international safety standards like those from UL and IEC.

As the energy and industrial sectors continue to demand higher power and greater efficiency, components like the CM1200DC-34N provide the foundational technology for next-generation systems. Its combination of high-current capability and robust thermal design offers a strategic advantage for engineers developing power conversion solutions that are not only powerful but also built to last.