Powering Reliable Backup: How Our IGBT Power Modules Portfolio Enables High Reliability and Cost Efficiency for UPS

Picture a hospital during a sudden power outage. Life-saving equipment, critical data servers and essential lighting all depend on a reliable backup system to keep running without interruption. In this scenario, the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) acts as a lifeline, instantly stepping in to deliver clean, stable power. Just as a lifeline must be strong and dependable, the core components inside a UPS—especially the power modules—must be robust, efficient and durable to perform mission critical operations every single time. Our seventh generation Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT7) power modules are engineered to be that lifeline, allowing UPS systems to deliver seamless, reliable backup when it matters most.

In this blog post, you’ll discover how our IGBT7 power modules are redefining the standards for UPS systems. We’ll explore the technology behind these modules, the unique benefits they bring to backup power applications, and how they’re helping industries safeguard critical operations. By the end, you’ll understand why IGBT7 modules are the new benchmark for UPS reliability and performance.

As our world becomes more digital and interconnected, the need for reliable backup power is more critical than ever. Data centers, hospitals, manufacturing plants and financial institutions all rely on UPS systems to protect against power interruptions, voltage fluctuations, and surges. Over the years, UPS technology has evolved from simple battery backups to sophisticated systems capable of delivering high-quality, uninterrupted power for extended periods.

At the heart of every modern UPS is the power module, responsible for converting and managing energy flow between batteries, inverters and the load. Early generations of IGBT modules improved efficiency and reliability, but as demands for higher power density, faster switching and better thermal management have grown, so has the need for advanced solutions. OurIGBT7 power modules represent the latest leap forward, designed to meet the rigorous requirements of today’s UPS applications.

1. Exceptional Efficiency and Power Density
   IGBT7 modules are optimized for lower V_CE(sat) and V_f, minimizing conduction losses and hence overall power losses up to 20%. This results in higher efficiency, reduced heat generation and the ability to design more compact UPS systems without increasing the cost exponentially as IGBT7 modules offers best in class TCO (total cost of ownership), a key differentiator for UPS system builders.
   
   
2. 175 °C temperature for Overload Capacity
   UPS systems must perform reliably during sudden load changes and extended backup periods. IGBT7 modules offer overload capacity at junction temperatures up to 175°C and feature enhanced freewheeling diode softness, providing stable operation even under demanding conditions. Higher overload capacity obviates the need for parallel multiple modules, higher power modules and provides better cost/performance ratio without affecting high reliability.
   
   
3. 50% higher current capability
   In UPS applications, it is important to pack more power in modular converters to provide flexibility to end customers. 50% higher current capability of IGBT7 power modules avoids paralleling and all the added complexity and high BOM content that comes with it. Frame size jump provided by these IGBT7 modules reduces the BOM content and provides faster time to market to ever growing power needs of UPS market.
   
   
4. High Voltage and Current Handling
   With support for voltages up to 1700V and currents up to 900A, IGBT7 modules are suitable for both small-scale and large-scale UPS systems. This flexibility allows scalability for a wide range of backup power scenarios for collocation as well as enterprise grade data centers.
   
   
5. Ease of Integration and Scalability
   Our IGBT7 modules are available in various topologies and package options, making them easy to integrate into new or existing UPS designs. Besides, IGBT7 gate driving requirement are hassle free and backward compatible with previous IGBT generations, providing scalability and ease of use. We also offer low profile and low inductance packages that reduce the voltage overshoot substantially and enhance reliability. Customization options deliver a suitable fit for diverse mission critical and bespoke application needs.
   
   
6. Real-World Applications

• Data Centers: Supplying uninterrupted operation of servers and network infrastructure.
• Healthcare: Providing backup for critical medical equipment and systems.
• Industrial Facilities: Protecting automation and control systems from power disturbances.
• Telecommunications: Maintaining continuous operation of communication networks.

If you’re looking to enhance the reliability and efficiency of your UPS systems with better cost/performance ratio, our IGBT7 power modules offer the advanced performance and dependability you need. Whether you’re designing data centers, healthcare or industrial applications, these modules provide the foundation for robust, scalable backup power solutions.

Want More?

For more information, technical resources or to discuss your specific UPS application needs, visit the Microchip IGBT Power Modules page.