VisIC Technologies has successfully demonstrated an efficient Gallium Nitride-based 3-phase traction inverter with an automotive-grade PMSM motor.
The company tested its 2.2mΩ 650V half-bridge power module, consisting of four parallel 8mΩ Power FET, in a three-phase configuration on a dyno-test-bench using a PMSM motor at a major automotive OEM.
Due to this, VisIC Technologies has proven that their D³GaN (Direct Drive D-Mode Gallium-Nitride) semiconductor technology is well-suited even for the most challenging high-power automotive applications. The company has also addressed concerns about parallelisation and oscillations caused by fast-switching transients.
A successful testing stage
The inverter phase current reached 350Arms (500A peak) at 400V, although test system set-up limitations prevented higher currents, which the 2.2mΩ Power Module is capable of.
The Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) driving cycle testing was executed and achieved comparable efficiency with commercial Silicon Carbide-based modules, despite using early non-optimised module prototypes.
Therefore, D3GaN will deliver its promise of the highest efficiency, improving car costs through lighter, smaller Gallium Nitride power systems and smaller battery sizes without compromising the car’s driving range. In addition, the D3GaN technology, based on the GaN-on-Silicon semiconductor process, is delivering better than silicon carbide (SiC) performance at the more competitive silicon cost level.
Higher-efficiency Gallium Nitride inverters for the automotive sector
“With this great accomplishment, acknowledged by a leading automotive OEM, VisIC Technologies has provided overwhelming evidence for higher-efficiency at lower-cost future EV traction inverters for the automotive world,” said Dr Tamara Baksht, CEO & Co-founder of VisIC technologies. “The automotive market demands high-power, high-voltage, high-reliability Gallium Nitride, and our D3GaN die and module solutions are the answer.”
VisIC Technologies’ three-phase prototype inverter system will be available for testing across additional customer sites towards the end of the second quarter of 2023.
About VisIC Technologies
VisIC Technologies is a world leader in Gallium Nitride semiconductors for EV applications, focused on high-power automotive solutions. Its efficient and scalable products are based on profound technological knowledge of gallium-nitride and decades of experience.
