More work on SiC inverters for vehicles
Researchers at the Future Renewable Electric Energy Distribution and Management (FREEDM) Systems Center at NC State had one of their silicon carbide inverters at APEC. It delivers 12.1 kW/L, significant because it is close to the U.S. DoE goal of developing inverters that can achieve 13.4 kW/L by 2020. By way of comparison, a 2010 EV could hit only 4.1 kW/L.
The new inverter prototype was made using off-the-shelf SiC components. FREEDM researchers have also made new, ultra-high density SiC power components that they expect will allow them to get closer to the DOE target. They figure to make an air-cooled inverter up to 35 kW using the new module, for use in motorcycles, hybrid vehicles and scooters.
NEXT PAGE: Powering up odd-ball converter topologies
