Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) are three-terminal power semiconductor devices that combine the high-input impedance of a MOSFET with the low conduction loss of a bipolar transistor. They are critical components in modern power electronics systems, enabling efficient switching and amplification in high-voltage (600V 6500V) and high-current applications. IGBTs are widely used in electric vehicles, industrial motor drives, renewable energy systems, and consumer electronics.
| Type | Functional Characteristics | Application Examples |
| Non-Punch-Through (NPT) | High short-circuit withstand capability, temperature-stable performance | Industrial motor drives, welding equipment |
| Punch-Through (PT) | Lower conduction losses, optimized for 600V 1700V ranges | Solar inverters, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) |
| Field-Stop (FS) | Reduced tail current, improved switching performance | Electric vehicle chargers, rail traction systems |
A single IGBT typically consists of a four-layer semiconductor structure (P-N-P-N) with three electrodes: collector, gate, and emitter. The gate is isolated by a thin oxide layer, enabling voltage-controlled operation. Key components include:
Common package types: TO-247, D2PAK, SOT-227, and direct copper bonding (DCB) modules.
| Parameter | Typical Range | Test Conditions | Importance |
| Collector Current (IC) | 10A 300A | TC=25 C | Determines power handling capability |
| Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE) | 600V 1700V | IC=rated current | Defines voltage class |
| Forward Voltage Drop (VCE_sat) | 1.5V 3.5V | IC=rated, TJ=125 C | Impacts conduction losses |
| Switching Losses (Eon/Eoff) | 1mJ 100mJ | Resistive load, 150 C | Limits maximum operating frequency |
| Short-Circuit Withstand Time | 1 s 10 s | VCE=rated, IC=2 rated | System reliability indicator |
| Manufacturer | Representative Product | Key Features |
| Infineon Technologies | IGW40N120H3 | 1200V, 40A, FS technology |
| Mitsubishi Electric | CM200DY-12H | 1200V, 200A, industrial grade |
| ON Semiconductor | FGA30N120ANTD | 1200V, 30A, soft recovery diode integrated |
| STMicroelectronics | STGF100N650DT | 650V, 100A, automotive qualified |
| Toshiba Electronic Devices | GT20NC140SRA | 1400V, 20A, high short-circuit robustness |
Key factors to consider:
Example: For a 1500V PV inverter, select a PT-type IGBT with VCE 1700V and Eoff < 5mJ.
Future developments include: