Content last revised on November 29, 2025
Mitsubishi CM400HB-90H: A Deep Dive into the 4500V High-Reliability IGBT Module
The Mitsubishi CM400HB-90H is a high-voltage, single IGBT module engineered for demanding power conversion systems. It delivers a robust combination of a 4500V collector-emitter voltage and a 400A continuous collector current, establishing it as a cornerstone component for medium-voltage applications. Key benefits include superior thermal performance for enhanced reliability and a high blocking voltage that simplifies inverter design. This module's 4500V rating is specifically designed to meet the challenges of next-generation traction drives and grid-tied power systems, offering a direct path to more efficient and compact topologies.
Application Scenarios & Value
System-Level Benefits in Medium-Voltage Power Conversion
For systems engineers developing high-power inverters, the CM400HB-90H provides a decisive advantage. Its primary value lies in its high 4500V blocking capability. What is the primary benefit of its high voltage rating? It enables the design of simpler, more reliable two-level inverter topologies for systems operating on 2.4kV to 3.3kV lines, potentially eliminating the need for complex multi-level configurations or the series connection of lower-voltage IGBTs. This simplification is critical in applications like mainline locomotive Traction Inverter systems and industrial motor drives, where reducing component count directly correlates to a lower probability of failure and easier maintenance.
A prime engineering scenario is the retrofitting or new design of an auxiliary power unit (APU) for rolling stock. In this context, the module's ability to handle high voltage transients and its robust thermal cycle lifetime ensure consistent performance under harsh operational conditions, characterized by frequent load changes and vibrations. The module's performance parameters are foundational for achieving high efficiency and long service life in these mission-critical systems. For applications requiring even higher current handling at this voltage level, the related CM900HC-90H offers a 900A capability within a similar operational framework.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specs for Enhanced Thermal Reliability
The performance of the CM400HB-90H is defined by a set of specifications optimized for high-voltage, high-reliability applications. The following table highlights the key parameters that are essential for design and simulation.
| Parameter | Symbol | Value | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collector-Emitter Voltage | VCES | 4500V | - |
| Collector Current (DC) | IC | 400A | Tc = 80°C |
| Collector Current (Pulse) | ICP | 800A | - |
| Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage | VCE(sat) (typ.) | 3.8V | IC = 400A, Tj = 125°C |
| Gate-Emitter Voltage | VGES | ±20V | - |
| Thermal Resistance (Junction to Case) | Rth(j-c) | 0.045 °C/W | IGBT Part |
| Maximum Junction Temperature | Tj max | 150°C | - |
Download the CM400HB-90H datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.
Technical Deep Dive
Engineering Reliability Through Advanced Thermal Design
A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of high-power module design is the thermal interface between the semiconductor chip and the external cooling system. The CM400HB-90H leverages an Aluminum Nitride (AlN) ceramic isolation substrate, a material choice that directly impacts long-term reliability. The module's low thermal resistance of 0.045 °C/W is a direct result of this advanced material. To put this into perspective, think of thermal resistance as the amount of traffic congestion for heat trying to escape the chip. A lower Rth(j-c) value is like a wide, clear superhighway, allowing heat to dissipate rapidly to the heatsink. This efficiency keeps the junction temperature lower under heavy loads, which is the single most important factor in extending the operational lifespan and preventing premature failure in power electronics. This superior Thermal Management is fundamental to the module's suitability for applications with high power cycling demands, such as industrial motor control and renewable energy converters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary advantage of the CM400HB-90H's 4500V VCES rating in industrial applications?
The 4500V rating allows for direct implementation in medium-voltage systems (e.g., 3.3kV bus), enabling simpler and more robust two-level inverter designs. This reduces system complexity, lowers component count, and enhances overall reliability by avoiding the need to connect multiple lower-voltage IGBTs in series.
How does the low thermal resistance of 0.045 °C/W impact system design?
This extremely low thermal resistance facilitates more efficient heat transfer from the IGBT junction to the case and heatsink. For designers, this translates to a lower operating junction temperature for a given load, which significantly increases the module's reliability and lifespan. It can also allow for the use of smaller, more cost-effective cooling solutions, improving the overall power density and cost of the system.
What does the 'single IGBT' configuration mean for my design?
This module contains one IGBT switch. This configuration offers maximum design flexibility, allowing engineers to create custom topologies such as choppers, single-switch converters, or to build their own phase-leg or bridge configurations tailored to specific application requirements.
What are the key considerations for the gate drive circuit for a 4500V module?
A high-voltage module like the CM400HB-90H requires a robust and carefully designed Gate Drive circuit. Key considerations include providing high galvanic isolation, ensuring sufficient drive current for fast switching, implementing protection features like desaturation detection (VCE(sat) monitoring), and potentially using a negative gate voltage during the off-state to prevent parasitic turn-on due to dV/dt effects.
