International Rectifier Introduces 600V IGBT Co-Packs with Improved Ruggedness and Better Value.

Technology Editors

International Rectifier, IR(R) (NYSE:IRF) today introduces a new series of 600V non punch-through (NPT) insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) devices that offer improved ruggedness at a lower cost than previous generation devices. The new IRGB6B60KD, IRGIB6B60KD, IRGB10B60KD and the IRGB15B60KD are designed for appliance motor drive applications such as clothes washers and air conditioners, as well as light industrial motor drive applications.

Alberto Guerra, International Rectifier Director for the Appliance Business Unit, said, "The new NPT IGBTs facilitate the transition to electronic motor drive to implement variable speed motors and cut energy consumption as required by consumers and regulations. These devices provide the ruggedness and cost effectiveness required for appliance applications such as washers, refrigerator compressors and air conditioners."

The new devices combine a 600V IGBT with a HEXFRED(R) fast recovery diode in a single package (a "Co-Pack") configured for motor drive half-bridge or inverter applications. The IGBT Co-Packs are rated at 5A, 7A, 12A or 20A, and feature optimized reverse-bias safe operating area (RBSOA) and 10 microsecond short-circuit capability, delivering improved ruggedness during start-up and abnormal current and voltage spikes. The "square" RBSOA provides maximum current rating up to the maximum voltage rating.

The 600V NPT IGBTs have a low current "tail" at turn-off, significantly reducing switching energy losses compared to previous generation, allowing modulated frequencies up to 20kHz. Higher modulated frequencies allow better torque control at lower speeds as well as reduced audible noise. The new IGBT technology uses thinner wafers to reduce electrical and thermal resistance, offering lower switching losses without any increase in conduction losses.

The new IGBTs do not require negative bias for turn-off, eliminating the need for an auxiliary power supply, and simplifying the use of gate driver ICs. "When combined with IR gate driver ICs, such IR2106 (hi-low side), IR2108 (half-bridge) or IR2136 (three-phase) families, the design of new electronic motor drive is greatly simplified," Guerra added.

Data sheets are posted on the International Rectifier Web site:

  --  600V, 7A Co-Pack NPT IGBT: IRGS6B60KD, IRGB6B60KD, IRGSL6B60KD:
      http://www.irf.com/product-info/datasheets/data/irgs6b60kd.pdf

  --  600V, 5A Co-Pack NPT IGBT: IRGIB6B60KD:
      http://www.irf.com/product-info/datasheets/data/irgib6b60kd.pdf

  --  600V, 12A Co-Pack NPT IGBT: IRGS10B60KD, IRGB10B60KD,
      IRGSL10B60KD:
      http://www.irf.com/product-info/datasheets/data/irgs10b60kd.pdf

  --  600V, 20A Co-Pack NPT IGBT: IRGS15B60KD, IRGB15B60KD,
      IRGSL15B60KD:
      http://www.irf.com/product-info/datasheets/data/irgs15b60kd.pdf

Pricing and Availability

Pricing for the new Co-Pack IGBTs ranges start at US $0.711 each in 10,000-unit quantities. The new devices are available immediately.

About International Rectifier

International Rectifier is recognized as a leading supplier of power semiconductors and systems solutions. IR's patented HEXFET(R) power MOSFETs, IGBTs and high-voltage ICs make electricity work smarter in industrial automation and controls, automotive electrical systems, consumer electronics, computers and peripherals, telecommunications, lighting, and satellite/launch vehicle applications. Visit www.irf.com to learn more about International Rectifier products.

Trademark Notice

HEXFET(R), HEXFRED(R) and IR(R) are registered trademarks of International Rectifier Corporation. All other product names noted herein may be trademarks of their respective holders.