The rapid expansion of the xEV market is driving demand for power semiconductors, including SiC SBDs, which provide low heat generation along with high-speed, high-voltage switching capabilities in applications such as onboard chargers. Furthermore, manufacturers are increasingly relying on compact surface-mount devices (SMDs) compatible with automated assembly equipment to boost manufacturing efficiency. Compact SMDs tend to exhibit shorter creep distances, making the prevention of high-voltage tracking a critical design challenge.
As a leading SiC supplier, ROHM has been working to develop high-performance SiC SBDs that offer suitable breakdown voltages for high-voltage applications with easy assembly. By adopting an optimized encapsulation shape, a minimum creep distance of 5.1 mm is achieved, improving insulation performance compared to standard products.
The new products utilize an original design that eliminates the center pin previously located at the bottom of the package, increasing the creep distance to a minimum of 5.1 mm, approximately 1.3 times greater than standard products. This minimizes the possibility of creep-through (discharge due to creep) between terminals, eliminating the need for resin encapsulation when surface-mounting the device on circuit boards in high-voltage applications. Furthermore, the devices can be mounted on the same circuit layout as standard, conventional TO-263 package products, allowing for easy replacement on existing circuit boards.
Two nominal voltages are offered, 650 V and 1200 V, compatible with the 400 V systems commonly used in xEVs, as well as with the higher voltage systems whose adoption is expected to grow in the future. The automotive-grade SCS2xxxNHR code is rated according to AEC-Q101, guaranteeing compliance with the high reliability standards required by this application sector.
In the future, ROHM will continue to develop high-voltage SBDs using SiC, helping to meet the demands for low energy consumption and high efficiency in industrial and automotive equipment by supplying optimal power devices that satisfy market needs.
Product range
Application examples
: Automotive applications: on-board chargers (OBCs), DC-DC converters, etc.
Industrial equipment: AC servomotors for industrial robots, photovoltaic inverters, power conditioners, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, etc.
Availability:
The SCS2xxxNHR for automotive applications is available now.
The SCS2xxxN for industrial equipment is expected in December 2024.
Online distributors: DigiKey™, Mouser™, and Farnell™.
Products will be offered by other online distributors as they become available.
