Abstract
Electrical power systems require switches to connect system loads and provide protection during a load fault. Protection includes current limiting and/or fast clearing of a fault. Mechanical switches such as circuit breakers and relays have traditionally performed this function. However, some applications can benefit from semiconductor‐based switches. The designer of these semiconductor switches has a choice between several power electronic device families. This selection is difficult since no single device family is best suited for an AC switch application. Therefore, this study investigates and compares the characteristics of three of the device families: Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFET), Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBT), and MOS Controlled Thyristors (MCT). The focus of this study is the suitability of each device to operate in an AC switch. Low and medium rated devices (under 600 volts and 50 amperes) are evaluated. The study will include maximum current, breakdown voltage, conduction voltage drop, operating temperatures, maximum controllable current, and gate drive requirements.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
