One of the most recognisable manufacturers in this field is Semikron Danfoss (formerly Semikron) – a brand that has been setting standards in the design of electro-insulated diode and thyristor modules, rectifier bridges, IGBT and MOSFET transistor modules, and intelligent power modules (IPMs) for decades.

In Poland, Semikron products and solutions have been available for many years from ELTRON, which offers technical and advisory support in the selection and implementation of power components.

Semiconductor power modules – the foundation of power electronic systems

Power modules are the basic building blocks in power conversion systems. Depending on the dedicated application, they contain sets of IGBT or MOSFET transistors, rectifier bridges or diode and thyristor circuits, enclosed in a hermetically sealed, electrically insulated housing with optimised heat dissipation.

Their task is to quickly and efficiently switch high currents and voltages in a way that minimises power losses and ensures stable and reliable operation of the system.

Typical areas of application for Semikron modules include:

• drive inverters and frequency converters,
• renewable energy systems (PV inverters, wind turbine converters),
• UPS power supplies and emergency systems,
• electric vehicle charging and power supply systems,
• servo drive controllers and industrial automation.

Types and topologies of Semikron power modules

Semikron offers a wide range of power modules designed for use in various applications, from compact drives to high-power systems.

Diode, thyristor and mixed diode-thyristor modules

SKKT, SKKD or SKKH modules with a wide range of nominal currents and voltages of 25-570A / 600-2200V are used in rectifier circuits and high-power power supplies, as well as specialised modules such as SKKQ 1500/18.

Their design allows for effective heat dissipation in one direction, and solid galvanic isolation (up to 3600 V) ensures high resistance to breakdowns and surges.

Single- and three-phase rectifier bridges

These are the most versatile solutions used in inverters and DC/AC converters. They enable control of the direction of energy flow and precise regulation of the output voltage. Thanks to the design and placement of the bridge circuit in a hermetic, electrically insulated enclosure, optimal dissipation of the heat generated by the operating circuit has been achieved.

IGBT and MOSFET transistors

IGBT transistors are characterised by high power transfer capacity with low conduction losses at high voltages. Semikron specialises in medium and high power IGBT modules, often integrated with diodes.

Popular series include SEMITRANS, SEMiX, SKiM, MiniSKiiP, dedicated for use in drives, inverters and high-power power supplies.

MOSFET transistors are characterised by very high switching frequencies, which makes them ideal for applications requiring high efficiency, such as DC/DC converters, switching power supplies and battery systems.

Popular series include SEMITOP® MOSFET and MiniSKiiP® MOSFET.

Intelligent power modules (IPMs)

Integrated solutions containing transistor and diode circuits dedicated to three-phase inverters. Thanks to their design, they minimise the space occupied in the circuit, but above all, they reduce the number of connections, reduce circuit inductance and increase the reliability of the entire system.

The popular series is SKiiP 4, which offers a current range from several dozen to 3600 A.

Advanced technology and design

Semikron has been investing in the development of semiconductor materials and power module assembly technology for years. Its solutions include:

• sintering technology (silver sintering), which provides significantly better thermal conductivity than traditional soldered connections,
• modern DBC (Direct Bonded Copper) systems, which guarantee low thermal resistance and high mechanical stability,
• integrated NTC temperature sensors for continuous monitoring of module operation.

As a result, Semikron modules are characterised by high power density, low switching losses and long service life, which is crucial in applications operating in harsh industrial and energy conditions.

Design aspects and cooling

Choosing the right power module is one thing – its proper integration with the cooling system is equally important. Semikron offers a wide range of heat sinks, cooling plates and thermal pastes that keep the transistor junction temperature (Tj) within a safe range.

ELTRON supports designers in the selection of these components, assisting in thermal analysis and the configuration of IGBT gate control systems.

Advantages of Semikron Polska solutions

• high reliability and durability - thanks to sintered connections and optimised cooling,
• modularity - the ability to combine modules into multi-module power systems,
• design flexibility - a wide range of topologies, voltages (600-2200 V) and currents (up to 1400 A),
• easy integration with control systems (compatibility with gate drivers),
• availability of components and local support from ELTRON - reduction of design and prototype commissioning time.

ELTRON – your partner in providing power system solutions and products

Thanks to many years of cooperation with Semikron, ELTRON supports engineers and system integrators in Poland at every stage of project implementation: from the selection of appropriate modules, through heat loss analysis, to assembly optimisation.

ELTRON's offer includes not only semiconductor power modules, but also heat sinks, gate drivers, thermal pastes, semiconductor fuses and mounting accessories, which allows for the creation of complete power electronics solutions.

Summary

Semikron semiconductor power modules are the foundation of reliable power electronics systems, from industrial inverters to modern electric vehicle charging systems. Their advanced design, high efficiency and ability to integrate with intelligent control systems make them a key component of modern projects.

With the help of ELTRON, engineers can fully exploit the potential of Semikron technology to create systems with high energy efficiency, stability and operational safety.