Investigation on Direct Liquid Cooling Design of Power Modules with Flat Baseplate for Automotive Application

Abstract:
Copper pin fins and aluminum integrated fins have generally been used in power modules for direct liquid cooling. The direct liquid cooling system using copper pin fins or aluminum integrated fins provides excellent heat dissipation, but it is expensive in terms of materials and their production costs. Copper flat baseplates, which are low cost and generally used for indirect liquid cooling or air cooling, have not been adequately evaluated as direct liquid coolers regarding to the cooling performance and reliability in automotive applications. This paper investigates suitable rib shape in direct liquid cooling for a flat baseplate power module from the viewpoints of heat dissipation and pressure loss. In addition, it demonstrates sufficient reliability in terms of coolant corrosion and pressure durability, which are essential for automotive applications.