SKKT162/18E Thyristor/Diode Module: Engineering for Reliability in Power Control Applications
Content last revised on October 6, 2025.
A Technical Introduction to the SKKT162/18E Power Module
Engineered for demanding power conversion and control systems, the Semikron SKKT162/18E is a high-reliability thyristor/diode module designed to provide robust and precise AC phase control. With specifications of 1800V | 156A | I²t of 145,000 A²s, this SEMIPACK® 2 module delivers superior performance. Key benefits include exceptional thermal management via an aluminum oxide ceramic baseplate and long-term operational stability from hard-soldered joints. It directly addresses the need for dependable power handling in industrial applications with high inrush currents or fluctuating loads. For power systems requiring robust control under demanding mains voltage, this 1800V module provides a significant safety and performance margin.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specs for Enhanced Thermal Reliability
The technical specifications of the SKKT162/18E are pivotal for its deployment in high-reliability applications. The following table highlights the critical parameters that design engineers and procurement specialists should consider.
| Parameter | Value | Engineering Significance |
| Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage (VRRM) | 1800 V | Provides a substantial safety margin for operation on 400V/480V three-phase systems, protecting against line voltage transients. |
| Average On-state Current (ITAV) | 156 A (at Tcase = 85°C) | Defines the continuous current handling capability, crucial for sizing the device in applications like DC motor drives and industrial heaters. |
| Surge Current Rating (ITSM) | 5400 A (at Tvj = 25°C, 10 ms) | Indicates exceptional robustness against non-repetitive fault currents, essential for reliability in motor soft-starters or rectifier circuits. |
| I²t Value for Fusing | 145,000 A²s (at Tvj = 25°C, 10 ms) | This parameter is critical for coordinating with fuses, ensuring the protection device trips before the module is damaged during a short-circuit event. |
| Thermal Resistance, Junction to Case (Rth(j-c)) | 0.16 K/W (per thyristor) | A low thermal resistance signifies efficient heat transfer from the silicon chip to the heatsink, simplifying thermal management and improving system longevity. |
| Isolation Voltage (Visol) | 3000 V~ | Ensures high electrical isolation between the power circuit and the mounting baseplate, a key safety and system integration requirement. |
Download the SKKT162/18E datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.
Application Scenarios & Value
Achieving System-Level Benefits in Industrial Power Control
The SKKT162/18E is designed for deployment in AC and DC power control applications where reliability and precise regulation are paramount. Its robust electrical and thermal characteristics make it an excellent choice for a variety of industrial systems.
A primary application is in controlled and half-controlled rectifiers for industrial power supplies and DC motor drives. In a DC motor drive, especially for machine tools, the module must handle the high inrush current during motor startup. The SKKT162/18E's high surge current rating (ITSM) of 5.4kA provides the necessary resilience to withstand these repeated stresses without degradation. What is the primary benefit of its pressure-contact design? Enhanced long-term reliability by eliminating solder fatigue.
- DC Motor Control: Ideal for controlling the speed and torque of DC motors in machinery, conveyors, and mixers.
- Industrial Heating and Temperature Control: Enables precise power regulation for large ovens, furnaces, and chemical processes, ensuring stable temperatures and process consistency.
- AC Power Controllers & Soft Starters: Effectively manages high-power AC loads, reducing mechanical stress on equipment during startup.
- Professional Light Dimming: Suitable for high-power lighting systems in theaters and studios where smooth and reliable dimming is required.
The module's architecture, featuring hard-soldered joints, provides superior resistance to thermal and power cycling fatigue compared to conventional designs. This ensures a longer operational lifespan in applications with frequent start/stop cycles or fluctuating loads. For systems requiring even higher current capacity, the SKKT250/18E offers a similar voltage rating with increased amperage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the key advantage of the 1800V rating on the SKKT162/18E?
The 1800V repetitive peak reverse voltage (VRRM) provides a significant safety margin for systems operating on 400V or 480V AC lines. This makes the module highly resilient to the voltage spikes and transients commonly found in industrial environments, contributing directly to system reliability.
How does the aluminum oxide ceramic baseplate benefit my design?
The aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) ceramic baseplate provides excellent electrical isolation (3000V~) while ensuring efficient heat transfer. This dual function simplifies mounting, as it isolates the live electrical parts from the grounded heatsink, and its thermal performance helps maintain lower operating temperatures for the thyristor junctions, which is critical for long-term performance.
What does the I²t rating of 145,000 A²s mean for system protection?
The I²t value is essentially the thermal energy let-through capacity before the device fails. A higher rating indicates greater robustness. This value is crucial for selecting the correct high-speed fuse. Engineers must choose a fuse with an I²t rating lower than that of the module to ensure the fuse opens during a severe overcurrent event before the SKKT162/18E is permanently damaged.
Can the SKKT162/18E be used for a three-phase controlled rectifier?
Yes, multiple SKKT162/18E modules are frequently used to build three-phase controlled rectifier bridges (B6C circuits). Its dual-thyristor configuration is well-suited for this topology, enabling full control over the DC output voltage and power delivered to the load, which is a common requirement in variable speed DC motor drives.
Industry Insights & Strategic Advantage
Meeting Durability and Efficiency Demands in Modern Industrial Systems
In the context of industrial automation and energy efficiency, the reliability of power electronic components is a cornerstone of system uptime and total cost of ownership (TCO). The SKKT162/18E, from a manufacturer like Semikron, directly supports these strategic objectives. Its design, featuring hard-soldered joints and a robust ceramic baseplate, is engineered to withstand the mechanical and thermal stresses inherent in industrial environments, from machine tool drives to large-scale temperature controllers. This focus on durability aligns with the industry's shift towards components that minimize maintenance cycles and prevent costly downtime. How does the low Rth(j-c) impact heatsink selection? It allows for smaller, more cost-effective heatsink solutions while maintaining optimal junction temperatures. The module's performance characteristics enable the design of efficient and long-lasting power conversion systems, which is a critical factor in achieving broader goals like enhanced productivity and reduced operational expenditure.
Strategic Outlook
Integrating the SKKT162/18E into power control designs is a strategic decision for engineers prioritizing long-term operational integrity and performance. Its robust voltage overhead and proven thermal management design provide the foundation for reliable systems in demanding industrial fields. By specifying components engineered for durability, design teams can reduce the total cost of ownership and enhance the market reputation of their final equipment. This module represents a commitment to building resilient power infrastructure capable of meeting the rigorous demands of modern industrial processes.
