The short name is IGBT and IPM refer to different levels of integration and functionality in power semiconductor devices used for electronic switching, particularly in high-power applications like motor control, inverters, and power supplies.
IGBT (Insulated Gate Bi-polar Transistor):
- The Definition: An IGBT is a three-terminal power semiconductor device that acts as an electronic switch. It combines the characteristics of a MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) for the gate control and a bi-polar transistor for the current-carrying capability.
- Functionality: Primarily functions as a high-efficiency, fast-switching power switch. When a voltage is applied to its gate terminal, it allows current to flow between the other two terminals (collector and emitter).
- Integration Level: Typically, a discrete component or a module containing multiple IGBT chips. An IGBT module might also include freewheeling diodes for inductive load applications.
- Protection: An IGBT itself does not inherently have built-in protection features like overcurrent, overvoltage, or over-temperature protection. These protections need to be implemented externally in the driver circuitry.
- Driving systems: Requires an external gate driver circuit to provide the appropriate voltage and current to switch the IGBT on and off.
- Complexity of Use: Requires more complex external circuitry for driving and protection.
- Cost effective: Generally, less expensive than an IPM for a similar current and voltage rating because it’s a less integrated device.
Applications in various of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
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- Inverters-VFD
- Power supplies Systems
- Welding machineries
- Induction heating systems
IPM (Intelligent Power Module):
- Definition: An IPM is a higher level of integrated power module that incorporates not only the power switching devices (typically IGBTs or MOSFETs) but also the gate drive circuitry and various protection functions within the same package.
- Functionality: Acts as a complete power switching stage with built-in intelligence for control and protection.
- Integration Level: Highly integrated, containing multiple power switches (Like half-bridge, full-bridge, three-phase inverter configurations), gate drivers, and protection circuits.
Integrates various protection features:
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- Overcurrent protection
- Short-circuit protection
- Over-temperature protection
- Undervoltage lockout for the driver
- Sometimes includes fault output signals.
- Driving Systems: Internal gate driver circuitry is included, simplifying the interface with the control logic (e.g., microcontroller or DSP).
- Most Commonly used in applications where ease of use, reliability, and integrated protection are crucial
Application of IPM-Devices:
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- AC servo system drives
- Air conditioning equipment
- Elevators-Lift
- Washing machines
- Industrial motor drives
- Inverters-VFD
What is the IGBT & IPM defirrence?
| Feature | IGBT (Insulated Gate Bi-polar Transistor) | IPM (Intelligent Power Module) |
| Definition | Power semiconductor switch | Integrated power stage with control and protection |
| Integration | Discrete device or multi-chip module | Highly integrated (switches, driver, protection) |
| Driver | External required | Internal |
| Protection | External circuitry needed | Built-in (overcurrent, overvoltage, overtemparature) |
| Ease of Use | More complex external design | Simpler interface |
| Cost Systems | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| Reliability | Depends on external protection design | Often higher due to integrated protection |
| Applications | Wide range of high-power switching |
Motor drives, appliances, inverters where integration is key
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