PAH200N8: High-Reliability 800V Thyristor Module for Demanding Power Control
Content last revised on October 5, 2025.
Introduction to the PAH200N8 Thyristor Module
The Kyocera PAH200N8 is an 800V thyristor module engineered for robust performance in high-power industrial control systems. With key specifications of 800V | 200A | Rth(j-c) 0.1°C/W, it delivers exceptional thermal efficiency and high current handling. Its primary benefits include superior operational reliability and simplified thermal management. This module directly addresses the challenge of ensuring dependable power switching in applications subject to significant load variations and demanding thermal cycles. For systems requiring robust performance in 200A applications, the PAH200N8 provides a well-balanced solution for long-term reliability.
Application Scenarios & Value
System-Level Benefits in Industrial Power Conversion
The PAH200N8 is engineered for core power control functions where reliability under demanding electrical and thermal conditions is non-negotiable. Its 200A average forward current rating makes it a strong candidate for industrial motor drives, particularly in controlling AC motors for conveyors, pumps, and fans. In these applications, the thyristor's ability to handle substantial inrush currents during motor startup is critical. The module's low thermal resistance of 0.1°C/W per arm is a decisive factor, simplifying heatsink design and enabling more compact, cost-effective thermal solutions. This is particularly valuable in enclosed systems like UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) units and welding power supplies, where efficient heat dissipation is essential for maintaining operational stability and extending the service life of the entire system.
Additionally, its 800V repetitive peak off-state voltage (VDRM) provides a significant safety margin for operation on 400V and 480V AC lines, protecting against transient voltage spikes common in industrial environments. This makes the PAH200N8 a reliable component for power stages in soft starters and industrial heating controllers. For applications demanding a higher blocking voltage, designers might also evaluate devices like the 2MBI300N-120, which offers a 1200V rating in a different configuration.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specs for Enhanced Thermal Reliability
The specifications of the PAH200N8 are tailored for high-current power control applications where thermal performance is directly linked to system reliability. The table below highlights key parameters with an interpretation of their engineering value.
| Parameter | Value | Engineering Value & Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Repetitive Peak Off-State Voltage (VDRM) | 800 V | Provides a robust safety margin for industrial systems operating on 400V/480V AC lines, ensuring resilience against voltage transients. |
| Average Forward Current (IT(AV)) | 200 A | Enables control of high-power loads, making it suitable for industrial motor drives and heavy-duty power supplies. |
| Thermal Resistance (Rth(j-c)) | 0.1 °C/W (per arm) | Core Benefit: This excellent value signifies highly efficient heat transfer from the semiconductor junction to the case. Think of it as a wide, clear highway for heat to escape, minimizing temperature rise and enhancing long-term reliability. |
| Critical Rate of Rise of Off-State Voltage (dv/dt) | 500 V/µs | Indicates high immunity to false turn-on events caused by rapid voltage spikes, a critical factor for stable operation in noisy industrial environments. |
| Turn-Off Time (tq) | 100 µs | Defines the time required for the device to regain its blocking state, a key parameter for determining the maximum operating frequency in applications like AC choppers. |
Download the PAH200N8 datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary benefit of the 0.1 °C/W thermal resistance?
The low Rth(j-c) value of 0.1 °C/W per arm allows for highly effective heat dissipation. This directly translates to lower operating junction temperatures, which enhances the module's long-term reliability and allows for smaller, more cost-efficient heatsink solutions, improving overall power density.
How does the 800V VDRM rating impact its use in industrial applications?
An 800V rating provides a substantial safety margin for systems connected to 400V or 480V AC mains. This makes the PAH200N8 resilient to the voltage spikes and line disturbances frequently encountered in industrial settings, preventing component failure and ensuring system uptime.
Is the PAH200N8 suitable for soft-starter applications?
Yes, its high average forward current rating of 200A and its ability to handle surge currents make it an excellent choice for phase-angle control in industrial soft starters, enabling smooth ramp-up of motor speed and reducing mechanical stress on the system.
What does the dv/dt rating of 500 V/µs signify for system design?
This high dv/dt immunity indicates that the device is resistant to false triggering caused by fast-rising voltage transients. This is crucial for reliable operation in electrically noisy environments, such as those with multiple switching converters or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) systems nearby, reducing the need for complex snubber circuits.
Can this thyristor module be used for controlled rectification?
Absolutely. The PAH200N8 is a phase-control thyristor, making it ideal for building controlled rectifiers. These are used in applications like DC motor drives and battery chargers, where precise control over the output DC voltage is required.
Technical Deep Dive
A Closer Look at Thermal Design for Long-Term Reliability
The operational lifespan of a power module like the PAH200N8 is intrinsically linked to its thermal performance. The junction-to-case thermal resistance (Rth(j-c)) of 0.1°C/W is not just a number; it is a direct measure of the module's ability to efficiently conduct heat away from the active thyristor die. This is analogous to the width of a pipe—a wider pipe (lower thermal resistance) allows more water (heat) to flow through with less pressure (temperature rise). For a system designer, this low thermal resistance provides critical design flexibility. It means that for a given power dissipation, the thyristor junction will operate at a lower temperature, significantly slowing down temperature-induced degradation mechanisms and contributing to a longer, more reliable service life, a key consideration for high-value assets like industrial Servo Drive systems.
Engineer's Perspective
The Kyocera PAH200N8 is a foundational component for industrial power control, built around the core principles of thermal efficiency and electrical robustness. Its specifications are not about pushing the boundaries of switching speed but about delivering consistent, reliable performance in demanding, high-current applications. The combination of a low thermal resistance and a high dv/dt immunity provides engineers with the confidence to design systems that can withstand the harsh realities of the factory floor, from voltage transients to continuous thermal cycling. This module is a workhorse, designed for longevity and stability in applications where failure is not an option.
