Semikron SKKE 120F17 | High-Efficiency 1700V Fast Rectifier Diode Module
The Semikron SKKE 120F17 is a high-performance, fast-recovery diode module engineered for demanding power conversion applications. Housed in the industry-standard SEMIPACK® 2 package, this 1700V, 120A single-diode module provides a robust and efficient solution for engineers designing high-frequency systems where reliability and minimal energy loss are paramount. Its combination of speed, soft recovery, and excellent thermal management makes it a cornerstone component for modern inverters, power supplies, and motor drives.
Technical Deep Dive: The Engineering Edge
The superior performance of the SKKE 120F17 is rooted in its advanced design features, which deliver tangible benefits in power electronic circuits. Two of its most critical attributes are its recovery characteristics and thermal design.
- Fast, Soft Recovery: This module leverages Semikron's CAL (Controlled Axial Lifetime) chip technology to achieve very short reverse recovery times (t_rr) of approximately 1020 ns. This rapid switching capability is essential for minimizing Switching Loss , enabling higher operational frequencies in the overall system. Crucially, the recovery is "soft," meaning it reduces voltage overshoots and high-frequency oscillations. This behavior significantly lowers electromagnetic interference (EMI), simplifying the design of snubber circuits and improving the system's overall electromagnetic compatibility.
- Robust Thermal Management: The module features a ceramic isolated metal baseplate, a hallmark of the SEMIPACK® design, ensuring excellent electrical isolation while providing a low thermal resistance path for heat dissipation. With a thermal resistance from junction to case (Rth(j-c)) of just 0.2 K/W, the SKKE 120F17 efficiently transfers heat to the heatsink. This superior thermal performance allows the module to operate reliably at higher currents and temperatures, extending its operational life and enhancing the durability of the end application. For a deeper understanding of this topic, explore our guide on unlocking IGBT thermal performance.
Key Parameter Overview
Engineers require precise data for design and simulation. The table below outlines the critical electrical and thermal parameters of the Semikron SKKE 120F17. For comprehensive details, you can download the official SKKE 120F17 datasheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage (V_RRM) | 1700 V |
| Average Forward Current (I_FAV) @ T_case=85°C | 116 A |
| Surge Forward Current (I_FSM) @ 10 ms, T_vj=150°C | 1800 A |
| Forward Voltage (V_F) @ I_F=200A, T_vj=25°C | Max. 2.7 V |
| Threshold Voltage (V_T(TO)) @ T_vj=150°C | 1.5 V |
| Slope Resistance (r_T) @ T_vj=150°C | 4.5 mΩ |
| Reverse Recovery Time (t_rr) | 1020 ns (Typical) |
| Thermal Resistance, Junction to Case (R_th(j-c)) | 0.2 K/W |
Application Scenarios and Value Proposition
The SKKE 120F17 module is not just a component; it is a problem-solver in high-power systems. Its specific characteristics make it ideal for a range of demanding applications:
- Freewheeling and Snubber Diodes: In inverters and DC choppers, this module excels as a freewheeling diode, providing a safe path for inductive currents when the main switch (often an IGBT module) turns off. Its fast and soft recovery protects the active switches from destructive voltage spikes, enhancing system reliability.
- High-Frequency Rectifiers: In applications like electronic welding power supplies and inductive heating, the SKKE 120F17 serves as a highly efficient input or output rectifier. Its low switching losses are critical for maintaining high efficiency at the elevated frequencies these systems demand.
- Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Reliability is non-negotiable in UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems. The module's robust construction, proven SEMIPACK® housing, and excellent thermal cycling capability ensure long-term, stable performance, forming a dependable backbone for critical power infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary advantage of the single-diode configuration in the SKKE 120F17?
The single-diode topology offers maximum design flexibility. Engineers can use individual modules to create custom rectifier configurations, such as multi-phase bridges, or use them as standalone freewheeling diodes. This is particularly useful in complex or high-power converter designs where standard dual or six-pack modules may not fit the circuit requirements. For less complex, cost-sensitive designs, a comparable dual-diode module like the SKKD162/16 could be considered as an alternative.
How does the CAL 'soft recovery' technology impact my design process?
The soft recovery characteristic significantly reduces voltage overshoot and ringing during the diode's turn-off phase. This directly translates to lower conducted and radiated EMI. For design engineers, this means a reduced need for complex and costly snubber circuits and EMI filters, which saves board space, lowers component count, and simplifies the qualification process. This feature is a key differentiator in achieving clean power delivery, a topic further explored in our analysis of IGBT failure analysis.
By integrating advanced chip technology with a field-proven, thermally efficient package, the Semikron SKKE 120F17 delivers the performance and reliability needed for the next generation of power electronics. For inquiries about this module or support for your specific application, please contact our technical team.
