Improved Performances of 6,5kV IGBT Module by using Current Source Gate Driver

Abstract:
This paper deals with the use of new gate driver architecture developed by Alstom for traction converter using 6,5 kV IGBT module. This gate driver is a current source gate driver using a dual bridge instead of a resistor in order to control the gate current. Results presented in this paper are showing benefits on switching losses converted into significant advantage at system level. The analysis presented here demonstrate that an increase of inverter current about 20 % at a switching frequency of 500 Hz is achievable. This improvement of the power capability of the converter can be converted into different benefits at system level., First is an increase of the reliability of the converter by reducing significantly the junction temperature of semi-