Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 | Robust 1700V High-Power Chopper IGBT Module
The Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 is a high-power IGBT module engineered for demanding power conversion systems where reliability and performance are non-negotiable. As a single-switch (chopper) module rated for 1200A and 1700V, it provides a robust solution for high-power industrial drives, renewable energy inverters, and transportation systems. The FZ1200R17HE4 leverages Infineon's proven technologies to deliver exceptional operational stability and thermal performance, making it a cornerstone component for building resilient and efficient power electronics.
Technical and Design Excellence
The performance of the Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 is rooted in its sophisticated design, which combines advanced chip technology with a mechanically superior package. This synergy results in a module that excels in both electrical efficiency and long-term reliability.
- HighSpeed 3 IGBT Technology: This module incorporates Infineon's HighSpeed 3 (HS3) IGBT technology, which is based on the well-regarded TRENCHSTOP™ technology. The HS3 design is optimized for a superior balance between low on-state voltage (VCE(sat)) and reduced switching losses. This optimization is particularly beneficial in applications operating at moderate switching frequencies, directly contributing to higher overall system efficiency by minimizing both conduction and switching-related power dissipation.
- Robust IHV-B Housing: The FZ1200R17HE4 is packaged in the industry-standard IHV-B housing, renowned for its mechanical robustness and excellent thermal management capabilities. The housing provides high creepage and clearance distances and a high Comparative Tracking Index (CTI > 400), ensuring reliable operation under high DC-link voltages and in harsh industrial environments. Its copper baseplate ensures a low thermal resistance, a critical aspect analyzed in our guide on unlocking IGBT thermal performance.
Optimized for High-Power Applications
The specific characteristics of the Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 make it an ideal choice for several critical high-power applications, where its performance translates directly into system-level benefits.
- Wind Turbine Converters: In multi-megawatt wind turbines, the 1700V blocking voltage provides an essential safety margin against grid voltage fluctuations. Its 1200A current rating enables the design of powerful and compact inverters capable of handling the high energy throughput required for utility-scale power generation. Its proven reliability ensures maximum uptime, a key metric in renewable energy.
- High-Power Industrial Drives: For applications such as large-scale pumps, compressors, and mining equipment, the FZ1200R17HE4 offers exceptional ruggedness. Its wide Safe Operating Area (SOA) and excellent short-circuit withstand capability provide the resilience needed to manage high-torque startups and potential fault conditions, ensuring the longevity of the drive system.
- Braking Choppers: The single-switch topology is perfectly suited for use as a braking chopper in regenerative drive systems. It efficiently dissipates excess energy during motor deceleration, protecting the DC-link capacitors and improving system safety and control.
Key Parameters at a Glance
The following table outlines the critical performance specifications for engineers designing with the FZ1200R17HE4. For a complete set of parameters and characteristic curves, please refer to the official datasheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Collector-Emitter Voltage (V_CES) | 1700 V |
| Continuous Collector Current (I_C) @ T_C = 80°C | 1200 A |
| Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_CEsat) @ I_C = 1200A, T_vj = 125°C | 2.50 V (Typical) |
| Maximum Operating Junction Temperature (T_vj op) | 150 °C |
| Total Switching Energy (E_ts) @ I_C = 1200A, T_vj = 125°C | 360 mJ (Typical) |
| Short Circuit Withstand Time (t_SC) | 10 µs |
| Package | IHM-B |
Download the official Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 Datasheet for comprehensive technical information.
Industry Insight and Strategic Value
In an era of rapid technological change, the Infineon FZ1200R17HE4 represents a commitment to proven performance and industrial-grade reliability. While newer technologies emerge, this module remains a strategic choice for critical infrastructure where decades of field data and operational stability are paramount. It is one of the IGBT modules that form the backbone of the world's high-power conversion landscape. For applications requiring even greater power handling within a similar housing, the FZ3600R17HE4 offers a direct scalability path, allowing designers to leverage the same proven platform for a wide range of power outputs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the FZ1200R17HE4 be operated in parallel to achieve higher current ratings?
Yes, paralleling these modules is a common practice in very high-power inverter designs. However, successful implementation requires meticulous engineering. Key considerations include ensuring symmetrical busbar layouts for balanced stray inductance, using a robust gate driver with individual gate resistors to prevent oscillations, and implementing a comprehensive thermal management strategy to maintain matched junction temperatures across all paralleled modules. This ensures even current sharing during both static and dynamic conditions.
What are the main advantages of using a 1700V-rated module over a 1200V one?
The primary advantage of a 1700V rating is the significantly increased safety margin on the DC-link voltage. This is critical in applications connected to unstable power grids that may experience voltage swells or in systems with high stray inductance that can cause voltage overshoots during switching. This higher blocking voltage capability enhances system robustness and allows for more resilient designs in challenging electrical environments, such as those found in wind and traction applications.
