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Optimisation of gate-commutated thyristors for hybrid DC breakers

Accepted version
Peer-reviewed

Type

Article

Change log

Authors

Lyu, G 
Yu, Z 
Zeng, R 
Liu, J 
Zhang, X 

Abstract

Hybrid DC Breakers (HCBs) are crucial components in modern DC systems. Integrated Gate Commutated Thyristors (IGCTs) are widely used in high voltage HCBs due to their controllable turn-off capabilities under high power conditions. The focus of this paper is on the optimization of Gate Commutated Thyristors (GCTs) for HCB applications, including operation temperature and design parameters. The considerations of GCT design and operating conditions for the use in HCBs are discussed. Under those considerations, a 2-D finite element model of GCT is developed to investigate the influence of the GCT design parameters on the Maximum Controllable Current (MCC) and the Safe Operation Area (SOA). Impedance unevenly distributed along the full wafer has been calculated to obtain accurate simulation results. Results show that the P+-base, lifetime, and the distance between cathode and gate metallization can all affect the MCC. In addition, GCTs can provide a higher MCC by operating at a higher temperature.

Description

Keywords

optimisation, thyristor applications, circuit breakers, finite element analysis

Journal Title

IET Power Electronics

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

1755-4535
1755-4543

Volume Title

10

Publisher

Institution of Engineering and Technology