SANREX PK200HB160 IGBT Module

Sanrex PK200HB160 | High-Voltage Half-Bridge IGBT Module for Robust Power Conversion

The Sanrex PK200HB160 is an industry-proven half-bridge IGBT module engineered for high-reliability power systems that operate under demanding electrical conditions. This module isn't just a component; it's a foundational building block for designers seeking to enhance system robustness, increase safety margins, and ensure long-term operational stability in high-voltage applications.

Core Features at a Glance

• High Voltage Blocking Capability: With a collector-emitter voltage (Vces) of 1600V, it provides a substantial safety margin for systems with high DC link voltages.
• Substantial Current Handling: A continuous collector current (Ic) rating of 200A enables its use in high-power motor drives and inverters.
• Optimized Half-Bridge Configuration: The 2-in-1 package simplifies inverter leg design, reducing layout complexity and assembly time.
• Superior Thermal Performance: Features an electrically isolated baseplate, streamlining thermal management and enhancing overall system reliability.

Key Electrical and Thermal Parameters

For engineers requiring precise data for simulation and design, the following table outlines the critical specifications of the Sanrex PK200HB160. For a complete overview, you can download the official datasheet.

Application Scenarios & Engineering Value

The unique characteristics of the PK200HB160 make it an exceptional choice for specific, high-stakes applications where standard 1200V modules may fall short.

• High-Voltage Motor Drives: In industrial settings with 690V AC mains, the resulting DC bus voltage can approach 1000V. The 1600V rating of this module provides the necessary headroom to safely absorb voltage transients caused by motor inductance, preventing catastrophic failures. For a deeper understanding of such failures, review our guide on preventing overcurrent, overvoltage, and overtemperature.
• Renewable Energy Systems: Solar and wind power inverters often utilize higher DC bus voltages to improve efficiency and reduce resistive losses. The PK200HB160 provides the robust voltage blocking required to manage the variable power output and grid interface challenges inherent in these systems.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): For data centers and critical industrial processes, reliability is non-negotiable. This module's robust design and high voltage tolerance ensure that the UPS can handle severe grid voltage fluctuations without compromising the integrity of the power supply to the load.

Technical Deep Dive: The 1600V Advantage

The decision to specify a 1600V IGBT module over a more common 1200V variant is a strategic one, rooted in system-level reliability. While a 1200V part might seem sufficient based on nominal DC bus calculations, it leaves little room for the inevitable voltage overshoots during fast switching events (di/dt effects) and external line surges. The PK200HB160's higher Vces rating acts as built-in insurance, reducing the stress on the silicon and the reliance on complex, lossy snubber circuits. This directly translates to a more resilient design with a higher Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF).

Engineer-to-Engineer FAQ

What are the primary thermal design considerations for the PK200HB160?

The module features an isolated baseplate, which simplifies mounting to a heatsink as it doesn't require an additional insulating layer. The key is to ensure minimal Thermal Resistance between the module base and the heatsink. This is achieved by using a high-quality thermal interface material (TIM), ensuring a flat mounting surface, and applying the correct mounting torque to the screws to guarantee uniform contact pressure.

How does this module compare to newer SiC-based solutions?

While Silicon Carbide (SiC) modules offer higher switching frequencies and lower losses, the Sanrex PK200HB160 provides a proven, cost-effective, and extremely rugged solution for applications in the low-to-mid frequency range (typically