These systems are designed to operate at voltages between 24 V and 850 V for output power levels between 10 kVA and 250 kVA. Different versions of these systems are already in production at one of Semikron's factories.
SKAI systems have been developed to comply with all automotive industry standards, reducing development costs and time to market. These systems are supplied with either low-voltage MOSFETs or high-voltage IGBTs. Available topologies include: three-phase inverter, dual (back-to-back) inverter, and multiple inverter. All SKAI2 modules have been qualified using various methods, such as accelerated life testing (HALT), reliability testing, and end-of-life testing, to ensure compliance with all applicable automotive industry regulations.
The high-voltage SKAI2 is available in 600 V and 1200 V versions with IGBTs and water cooling. Furthermore, it has been optimized for use in applications such as 100% electric cars and electric and hybrid buses. This system is based on SKiM93 modules, which are 100% solderless, and incorporates a polypropylene capacitor bus, trigger drivers, a state-of-the-art DSP controller, EMC filters, and current, voltage, and temperature sensors. All of this is integrated within an IP67-rated enclosure. Communication with the central control unit is via a CAN bus. These systems are designed for power outputs up to 150 kW.
The low-voltage version features water or air cooling and is equipped with 50, 100, 150, or 200 V MOSFETs. Available topologies include three-phase inverter and back-to-back (dual three-phase inverter). These systems are primarily used in industrial vehicles such as electric forklifts, etc. The output power of this equipment can reach up to 40 kW. Furthermore, they incorporate the same features as the IGBT system, so customers benefit from using the same control system, connections, and mechanical components.
The third type of SKAI 2 is a water-cooled multi-converter system encapsulated in an IP67-rated enclosure. Communications are also carried out via CAN bus. A typical multi-converter system includes a 40 kVA active front-end converter, a 20 kVA three-phase inverter, a 10 kVA three-phase inverter, and a 14V/300A or 28V/165A DC/DC converter.
“20 years of experience developing power systems for use in forklifts, agricultural vehicles, and buses have contributed to the development of our SKAI modules,” said Harald Jäger, Head of Systems Group. “The Systems Group has just launched the second generation of SKAI modules, a series of robust systems for use in a wide variety of applications. We offer local support to customers worldwide with large production runs.”
SKAI systems are based on the well-established SKiiP pressure contact technology, which guarantees a long product lifespan and reliability, as well as high resistance to load cycles. The systems and semiconductor components are manufactured using high-tech processes that include post-production functional testing and, where necessary, burn-in testing, ensuring a high level of quality.