Content last revised on January 11, 2026
SCE200AA160 Thyristor Module: Engineered for High-Reliability Industrial Power Control
Introduction to the SCE200AA160 Power Module
Delivering Robust Performance in Demanding AC Control Applications
The SanRex SCE200AA160 is a dual thyristor module engineered for exceptional durability and precise control in high-power industrial systems. This component provides a robust foundation for applications demanding high reliability by virtue of its impressive electrical characteristics: 1600V blocking voltage, 200A average on-state current, and a formidable 6000A surge current rating. Key engineering benefits include superior survivability under fault conditions and enhanced long-term operational stability. The module directly addresses the critical challenge of managing high inrush currents typical in large motor drives and heating controls, ensuring consistent performance where other devices might fail. For high-power AC control systems requiring exceptional surge survivability, the SCE200AA160 is the definitive choice.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specifications for System-Level Reliability
The technical specifications of the SCE200AA160 are tailored for high-stress industrial environments. The combination of high blocking voltage and significant current handling capabilities provides engineers with substantial design margin, contributing to overall system longevity and safety.
| Parameter | Symbol | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blocking & On-State Characteristics | |||
| Repetitive Peak Off-State Voltage | VDRM | 1600 | V |
| Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage | VRRM | 1600 | V |
| Average On-State Current | IT(AV) | 200 | A |
| RMS On-State Current | IT(RMS) | 314 | A |
| Peak On-State Voltage | VTM | 1.75 (max) | V |
| Surge & Switching Characteristics | |||
| Surge On-State Current (60Hz, 1 cycle) | ITSM | 6000 | A |
| I²t Limit (for fusing) | I²t | 150000 | A²s |
| Critical Rate of Rise of On-State Current | di/dt | 200 | A/µs |
| Critical Rate of Rise of Off-State Voltage | dv/dt | 500 | V/µs |
| Thermal & Mechanical Characteristics | |||
| Operating Junction Temperature | Tj | -40 to +125 | °C |
| Thermal Resistance (Junction to Case, per arm) | Rth(j-c) | 0.08 | °C/W |
| Isolation Voltage (AC, 1 minute) | VISO | 2500 | V |
Download the SCE200AA160 datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.
Application Scenarios & Value
System-Level Benefits in Industrial Motor Control and Power Conversion
The SCE200AA160 module is optimized for applications where controlled AC power is essential. Its robust design makes it a primary candidate for industrial equipment that experiences frequent electrical and thermal stress.
- Industrial Motor Soft Starters: A key challenge in starting large AC induction motors is the massive inrush current, which can be 5-8 times the nominal rating. The SCE200AA160's exceptional surge current (ITSM) rating of 6000A allows it to reliably manage these repeated current peaks without degradation. This prevents nuisance tripping of upstream breakers and extends the operational life of both the motor and the controller. What is the primary benefit of its high surge rating? It directly translates to enhanced system survivability and reduced downtime in motor drive applications.
- Controlled Rectifiers: In applications like battery charging systems or DC power supplies fed from an AC source, this module enables the design of highly efficient and reliable controlled rectifiers. The 1600V blocking voltage provides a significant safety margin when operating on 480V or even 600V industrial AC lines, ensuring stable performance despite line voltage fluctuations.
- AC Power & Temperature Control: For high-power heating elements in industrial furnaces or large-scale lighting control, the module's 200A continuous current rating allows for precise phase angle control, enabling efficient power regulation and management.
While the SCE200AA160 provides precise control, for applications requiring only uncontrolled rectification at similar power levels, a diode module like the DF200AA160 may be considered. For three-phase rectification needs, the MDS200A1600V offers a complete bridge in a single package.
Technical Deep Dive
The Engineering Significance of Glass Passivated Thyristor Chips
A critical, yet often overlooked, feature of the SanRex SCE200AA160 is the use of glass passivated thyristor chips. This technology is fundamental to the module's long-term reliability. During manufacturing, a layer of specialized glass is applied over the silicon die's junction termination area. This process creates a chemically inert and stable surface that protects the high-voltage junction from environmental contaminants and electrical field stress. Think of it as a permanent, hermetic-like seal at the chip level. This seal prevents ion migration, a common failure mechanism in semiconductor devices that can degrade blocking voltage capability over time, especially at elevated temperatures. The result is a highly stable off-state leakage current and consistent blocking performance throughout the module's entire operational life, a crucial factor for systems deployed in harsh industrial settings where maintenance is costly and reliability is paramount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the 6000A ITSM rating impact my design for a motor soft starter?
The high surge current (ITSM) rating provides a robust safety margin to withstand the repeated, high-current inrush cycles of motor startup. This allows you to design a more reliable system that is less prone to failure, reducing field service calls and improving the overall ruggedness of the final product.
What is the direct benefit of a "glass passivated" chip in this thyristor module?
Glass passivation ensures long-term voltage blocking stability. It creates a protective layer over the silicon junction, preventing electrical degradation over years of service. This leads to a longer operational lifespan and more predictable performance, especially in environments with temperature cycling or humidity.
How does the Rth(j-c) of 0.08 °C/W influence heatsink selection?
This low thermal resistance value indicates highly efficient heat transfer from the active silicon junction to the module's baseplate. For a design engineer, this means a smaller, more cost-effective heatsink can be used to maintain a safe operating junction temperature, or alternatively, it provides greater thermal margin for improved reliability in high-ambient-temperature environments. This is a crucial parameter in achieving compact and thermally stable power assemblies, a core topic in effective thermal management.
For engineering teams developing next-generation industrial controls and power conversion systems, the SCE200AA160 offers a proven, high-reliability solution. To evaluate this component for your design, please contact us for a detailed quotation or to discuss your specific application requirements.
