Flexible Over-Current Protection Scheme for Medium-Voltage WBG Power Modules in DPT Application

Abstract

To improve the development of emerging medium-voltage Silicon-Carbide (SiC) devices, accurate and safe double pulse testing (DPT) stands are necessary in order to characterize their dynamic behavior. As high-current levels introduce risks to the test operator and may damage the expensive prototype devices, over-current protection should be added to the DPT configurations; with an emphasis that this protection should not compromise the measurement accuracy. This study describes the design of a reliable and reconfigurable over-current protection circuit with minimal stray inductance for medium-voltage SiC power modules. This proposed design takes the form of a solid-state circuit breaker with adjustable over-current setting to interrupt the current flow in the DPT power loop in case of a failure.