Universal Converter Using Silicon Carbide

78497S Electronic power conversion systems (PCS) introduce major cost and reliability issues in most DER (Distributed Energy Resources) and energy storage systems. To address these problems, this project will develop a SiC-based converter, scalable to ratings of over 500 kW, that will provide dramatic improvements in efficiency, operating temperature, size/weight and cost for renewable and distributed power systems. The converter, which will utilize SiC MOSFETs (Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Excited Transistors), will not only perform all the conversion functions required in renewable and distributed energy systems, but will operate at high temperature. Low cost will be achieved by using air cooling, enhanced greatly by the higher junction-to-air temperature differential enabled by SiC. In Phase I, a preliminary design will be performed for all parts of the converter, but efforts will concentrate on aspects of the device and converter packaging that can exploit the superior properties of SiC. Extensive thermal and stress modeling will be carried out using CAD tools. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The SiC-based converter (or variants) should find use in essentially all renewable and distributed energy systems. They will be significantly more efficient and will use dramatically less material, thus reducing cost. Specific energy systems benefitted include fuel cells, photovoltaic cells, wind and hydro turbines, micro turbines, variable speed gensets, and storage systems.