Content last revised on June 18, 2026
VUB116-16NOXT IXYS High-Density Three-Phase Rectifier Bridge with Brake Chopper
The VUB116-16NOXT, manufactured by IXYS (a Littelfuse brand), represents a sophisticated integration of power electronics designed to streamline the input stages of industrial motor drives and power supplies. By combining a 1600V three-phase rectifier bridge with a high-performance brake chopper IGBT in a single, thermally optimized package, this module eliminates the need for discrete components and complex interconnects. For engineers managing 400V to 480V AC line voltages, the 1600V blocking voltage provides a critical safety margin against line transients and surges, ensuring long-term system stability in volatile industrial environments.
Core Specifications: 1600V Peak Reverse Voltage | 116A Rectifier Output | 1200V 110A Brake IGBT | E2-Pack Encapsulation.
Key Benefits: Consolidates input and braking stages to reduce PCB footprint; features planar passivated chips for exceptionally low leakage current and high reliability.
What is the primary benefit of its integrated design? Consolidating the rectifier and brake chopper into one module reduces parasitic inductance and simplifies thermal management. For 480V AC drives prioritizing space efficiency and transient ruggedness, the VUB116-16NOXT is the optimal choice.
Key Parameter Overview
Decoding the Specs for Enhanced System Reliability
The VUB116-16NOXT is engineered to handle the rigorous demands of industrial power conversion. The following table highlights the critical technical boundaries as defined in the official IXYS technical documentation.
| Functional Component | Parameter Description | Technical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Input Rectifier | Max. Repetitive Reverse Voltage (Vrrm) | 1600V |
| Input Rectifier | Max. Average DC Output Current (Idavm) | 116A (at Tc=100°C) |
| Brake IGBT | Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vces) | 1200V |
| Brake IGBT | Collector Current (Ic25 / Ic80) | 110A / 80A |
| Brake Diode | Max. Repetitive Reverse Voltage (Vrrm) | 1200V |
| Module Package | Isolation Voltage (Visol) | 2500V~ (50/60 Hz, RMS) |
Download the VUB116-16NOXT datasheet for detailed specifications and performance curves.
Application Scenarios & Value
Achieving System-Level Benefits in High-Frequency Power Conversion
In modern industrial automation, engineers often face the challenge of managing regenerative energy during motor deceleration. The VUB116-16NOXT addresses this by integrating a dedicated brake chopper IGBT. When a motor slows down, it acts as a generator, pushing energy back into the DC bus. Without a robust braking path, this can lead to overvoltage trips. By utilizing the 1200V 110A brake IGBT within this module, designers can safely dissipate this energy through an external resistor, protecting sensitive Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) components.
This module is particularly effective in Servo Drive applications where rapid start-stop cycles are frequent. The 1600V rating on the input bridge is akin to having a reinforced levee against a flood; it provides a necessary buffer for equipment operating on 480V grids where Short-Circuit Withstand Time and voltage spikes are common. For systems requiring slightly lower current handling in similar architectures, the VUB72-16NO1 offers a comparable 1600V rating with a 72A output, while the MUBW35-12A7 provides a full Converter-Brake-Inverter solution for lower power tiers.
Beyond motor control, the VUB116-16NOXT is a staple in UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems and industrial Welding Power Supply units. Its E2-Pack housing allows for a "plug-and-play" thermal interface, significantly reducing the total cost of ownership by minimizing assembly time and potential failure points associated with hand-wiring discrete diodes and IGBTs.
Technical & Design Deep Dive
Thermal Management and Reliability in Integrated Power Architectures
One of the defining features of the VUB116-16NOXT is its advanced thermal construction. IXYS utilizes planar passivated chips, a process that creates a highly stable surface structure. This is critical for Thermal Management, as it ensures that the leakage current remains extremely low even as temperatures approach the 150°C junction limit. Think of the Planar Passivation as a high-quality seal on a pressure cooker; it keeps the internal "electrical pressure" contained perfectly, preventing the thermal runaway that often plagues inferior modules.
The module's internal layout is optimized to minimize stray inductance. In high-speed switching of the brake IGBT, stray inductance can cause voltage overshoots that exceed the 1200V rating. By keeping the internal connections short and utilizing a direct-bonded copper (DBC) substrate, the VUB116-16NOXT ensures a clean switching waveform. This mechanical robustness is essential for meeting IEC 61800-3 EMC standards in Industrial Drives.
Furthermore, the E2-Pack utilizes a large copper base plate, providing a low thermal resistance path from junction to case (Rthjc). This allows for higher power density without requiring oversized heatsinks. For engineers, this means the ability to design more compact enclosures, a vital requirement in the era of Industrial 4.0 where floor space is at a premium. Detailed insights into how these structures compare to other brands can be found in our technical guide on IGBT Showdown: Semikron vs Infineon and related IGBT Design Integration strategies.
FAQ
Why is a 1600V rating used for the input bridge when the line voltage is only 480V?
In industrial settings, the 480V AC line is rarely clean. It is subject to lightning strikes, inductive switching transients, and grid fluctuations. A 1600V Vrrm provides a safety factor of over 3x the nominal peak voltage, ensuring the VUB116-16NOXT survives where an 800V or 1200V bridge might suffer a catastrophic breakdown.
Does this module require a negative gate voltage for the brake IGBT?
While the brake IGBT can operate with a simple 0V to 15V Gate Drive, applying a Negative Gate Voltage (e.g., -5V) during the OFF state is recommended in high-noise environments. This prevents accidental turn-on due to the Miller effect, especially when the DC bus experiences rapid voltage changes.
How does the integrated brake diode compare to a discrete fast-recovery diode?
The integrated brake diode in the VUB116-16NOXT is specifically matched to the IGBT's switching characteristics. It features soft recovery behavior, which minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI) and voltage ringing during the commutation of the brake resistor current, providing a more "tuned" solution than a generic discrete diode.
As a leading distributor of power semiconductors, we provide technical data to support your engineering evaluations. For detailed integration support or to verify the current availability of the VUB116-16NOXT for your next production cycle, please consult our engineering resources or contact our technical sales team for a fact-based consultation on your Power Electronics requirements.
