Technical Explanations

SKiM® - Technical Explanations
®
SKiM 63/93
IGBT Modules
Technical Explanations
Version 1.51 / October 2013
Stefan Häuser
1
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Content
1
Introduction ...................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1
Features ................................................................................................................................... 3
1.2
Advantages and Benefits ......................................................................................................... 3
2
Technical Details of SKiM ................................................................................................................ 5
2.1
Mechanical Design .................................................................................................................. 5
2.2
Electrical Behaviour ................................................................................................................. 6
2.3
Sinter Process ......................................................................................................................... 8
2.4
Protected Springs .................................................................................................................... 9
2.5
Creepage and Clearance Distances ....................................................................................... 9
2.6
Isolation Measurement .......................................................................................................... 10
2.7
Chip Positions ........................................................................................................................ 11
2.8
Thermal Material Data ........................................................................................................... 12
2.9
Pressure Force on the Heat Sink .......................................................................................... 13
3
Chip Technologies and Product Ranges ....................................................................................... 14
3.1
IGBT Chip Technologies and Product Range ....................................................................... 14
3.2
Safe Operating Area for IGBTs ............................................................................................. 16
3.3
Surge Current Characteristics of CAL Diodes ....................................................................... 17
3.4
Selection Guide ..................................................................................................................... 17
4
Thermal Resistances ..................................................................................................................... 18
4.1
Measuring Thermal Resistance Rth(j-s) ................................................................................... 18
4.2
Transient Thermal Impedance ............................................................................................... 18
5
Integrated Temperature Sensor Specifications ............................................................................. 20
5.1
Electrical Characteristic ......................................................................................................... 20
5.2
Electrical Isolation .................................................................................................................. 22
6
Spring Contact System Specifications........................................................................................... 23
6.1
Spring and Contact Specifications......................................................................................... 23
6.2
PCB Specifications (Landing Pads for Springs) .................................................................... 23
6.3
Storage Conditions ................................................................................................................ 23
6.4
Stray Inductance of Contact Springs ..................................................................................... 24
7
Reliability ....................................................................................................................................... 26
7.1
Standard Tests for the Qualification of SKiM Modules .......................................................... 26
7.2
Reliability of Spring Contacts................................................................................................. 27
7.3
Reliability of SKiNTER Layer ................................................................................................. 28
8
Design Recommendations for SKiM ............................................................................................. 30
8.1
Printed Circuit Board Design ................................................................................................. 30
8.2
Paralleling SKiM IGBT Modules ............................................................................................ 33
8.3
DC Link Bus Bars, Snubber Capacitors ................................................................................ 35
9
Marking .......................................................................................................................................... 36
9.1
“Passed” marking on housing ................................................................................................ 36
9.2
Laser Marking for Modules .................................................................................................... 36
9.3
Data Matrix Code ................................................................................................................... 37
10
Bill of Materials .......................................................................................................................... 38
11
Packing Specifications ............................................................................................................... 39
11.1 ESD COVER.......................................................................................................................... 39
11.2 Packing Boxes ....................................................................................................................... 40
11.3 Marking of Packing Boxes ..................................................................................................... 40
12
Type Designation System .......................................................................................................... 42
13
Figure Captions in the Datasheets ............................................................................................ 43
14
Disclaimer .................................................................................................................................. 43
2
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
1 Introduction
SKiM was introduced at PCIM Europe 2007 as SEMIKRON’s new product line for highly reliable IGBT
modules made specifically for automotive applications. SKiM is available in two package sizes:
SKiM 63 (cf. Fig. 1-1) and SKiM 93 (Fig. 1-2).
1.1 Features
Fig. 1-1 SKiM 63 (Foot print = 120 x 160 mm²)
Fig. 1-2 SKiM 93 (Foot print = 150 x 160 mm²)
SKiM modules feature a pressure-contact low-profile housing that boasts the following advantages:

100 % solder-free module, Pb-free

Solder-free driver assembly with no additional wiring or connectors

Spring contacts for auxiliary contacts

Separate AC, DC terminals and control unit

17 mm main terminal height
1.2 Advantages and Benefits
The chips inside SKiM modules are sintered not soldered, thereby achieving a very high power cycling
capability. Fig. 1-3 shows the comparison between a SKiM and a standard soldered module. The
sinter joint is a thin silver layer whose thermal resistance is superior to that of a soldered joint. Due to
the high melting point of silver (960 °C), no joining fatigue occurs, resulting in an increased service life.
Cycles to
failure
SKiM:
No base plate
Solder-free pressure contacts
10 000
1000
Standard module:
With base plate
Solder contacts
100
100
Δ Temperatutre [K]
Fig. 1-3 Comparison between SKiM and standard soldered module with base plate
3
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
The above-mentioned features allow for a compact, flat and low-inductance inverter design. Direct
driver assembly provides optimum IGBT controllability and eliminates noise on gate wires or loose
connectors.
For further information on SKiM please refer to:
 P. Beckedahl, T. Grasshoff und M. Lederer; A new power module concept for automotive applications; PCIM
Nuremberg; May 2007
 C. Daucher; 100% solder-free IGBT Module; PCIM Nuremberg; May 2007
4
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
2 Technical Details of SKiM
The SKiM module is designed as a highly reliable module that meets the demands of automotive
applications in terms of shock and vibration stability, as well as high temperature capability and service
life.
Today, state-of-the-art IGBT modules are based on a solder construction: the chips are soldered to a
substrate and this substrate is soldered to a base plate. Investigations have shown, however, that
these solder layers constitute the weakness of any module since they demonstrate fatigue when
exposed to active and passive temperature cycling.
In a consequence, SEMIKRON eliminates solder joints. A strategy that has been pursued by
SEMIKRON since 1992 when SKiiP technology was first introduced: the first pressure-contact IGBT
power module with pressure-contact main terminals and no base plate.
SKiM modules from SEMIKRON are the first ever 100% solder-free IGBT modules.
2.1 Mechanical Design
SKiM (Fig. 2-1) is based on the well-established SKiiP technology. This means the Al2O3 DBC (direct
bonded copper) substrate is pressed directly onto the heat sink without the use of a base plate.
Pressure Part
Chip
No base plate
Terminal
Springs to driver
Sintered
Direct contact to heat sink
Pressure contact
Pressure contact
Fig. 2-1 Cross-sectional picture of SKiM 63
The pressure is induced by a pressure part on top, which is screwed to the heat sink. This pressure is
transferred to the three main terminals (plus, minus and AC), as shown in Fig. 2-2. These main
terminals constitute a low-inductance sandwich construction and transfer the pressure to the abovementioned DBC substrate. The pressure is applied across several contact points (cf. Fig. 2-3) beside
every single chip. As a result, a very low thermal and ohmic resistance RCC’+EE’ is achieved.
5
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
= Pressure points of main terminals
Fig. 2-2 “Sandwich” of main terminals (SKiM 63)
Fig. 2-3 DBC substrate with pressure points (SKiM 63)
The chips themselves are sintered, not soldered. The sintering is based on pulverised silver which
forms a material connection when pressure and temperature is applied. (cf. section 2.3)
Contact springs are used for all of the auxiliary contacts (gate, auxiliary emitter and temperature
sensor). These spring contacts allow for solder-free connection of the driver PCB.
2.2 Electrical Behaviour
In a high-power module with paralleled chips, the switching behaviour and the resulting derating is
important.
Current Distribution
The current distribution between silicon chips is affected mainly by the parasitic stray inductances and
the difference in these inductances between the chips Two design features influence these parasitic
stray inductances: first the layout of the chips on the substrate and hence the commutation behaviour
between IGBT and diode; second the internal design of the main terminals.
Influence of the chip distribution on the DBC
If the DBC layout is not symmetric (e.g. as shown in Fig. 2-4) the commutation paths of the different
currents have different parasitic inductances, leading to different currents, losses and, ultimately,
temperatures in the different chips (cf. Fig. 2-5). To prevent individual chips from overheating,
derating is necessary.
300.0
IC [A]
250.0
200.0
150.0
100.0
50.0
0
Eswitch(T2) = 105 % Eswitch(T1)
4.500u
5.000u 5.500u 6.000u 6.500u
7.000u
t [s]
Fig. 2-4 Schematic of non-symmetric chip distribution
on DBC substrate
6
Fig. 2-5 Simulated current overshoots during
commutation as caused by non-symmetric layout
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
The SKiM DBC layout (Fig. 2-3) is largely symmetric and has symmetric inductances in the current
paths (Fig. 2-6). The commutation behaviour across all chips is therefore very even (Fig. 2-7) and
derating is not necessary.
300.0
IC [A]
250.0
200.0
150.0
100.0
50.0
0
Eswitch(T2) = Eswitch(T1)
4.500u
5.000u 5.500u 6.000u 6.500u
7.000ut [s]
Fig. 2-6 Schematic of symmetric chip distribution on
SKiM DBC substrate
Fig. 2-7 Simulated current overshoots during
commutation
Influence of the internal main terminal design
The bus bar system in SKiM modules, as shown in Fig. 2-2, has a very low stray inductance (LCE <
10 nH). Every single chip is connected symmetrically (cf. Fig. 2-3). This leads to similar stray
inductances for the individual chips, resulting in a homogeneous current distribution.
Measurements (Fig. 2-8) have verified a homogenous internal current distribution. The voltage drop
across a single chip is an indicator for the current through this chip. In Fig. 2-8, it can be seen that the
voltage drops at three different chip positions on the substrate, as well as at the position of the
auxiliary emitter are nearly identical, indicating a very homogenous current distribution.
There is a difference between the internal voltages and the current at the outer +/- terminals, resulting
from the voltage drop between the chips positions and the main terminals.
VCE
IC
150 V/Div; 80 A/Div
Fig. 2-8 Switch-off behaviour of SKiM 93 module, measured at different points directly on the DBC substrate
Comparison: Top versus Bottom IGBT
7
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Besides even current distribution between paralleled chips, the symmetry in switching between top
and bottom IGBT in a half bridge configuration is also important in terms of derating. This means if the
two IGBTs switch differently, the IGBT with higher losses will limit the module as a whole.
Thanks to the symmetric DBC layout in SKiM modules (cf. Fig. 2-3, Fig. 2-9 and Fig. 2-11), the
switching behaviour of the bottom and the top IGBT is virtually identical, as shown in Fig. 2-10 and Fig.
2-12. Derating is therefore not necessary.
IC
VCE
VGE
Fig. 2-9 Schematic of bottom IGBT on SKiM DBC
Fig. 2-10 Measured turn-off of bottom IGBT
IC
- VCE
Fig. 2-11 Schematic of top IGBT on SKiM DBC
Fig. 2-12 Measured turn-off of top IGBT
For further information on optimisations in SKiM processes, please refer to:
A.Wintrich, P. Beckedahl, T.Wurm ; “Electrical and thermal optimization of an automotive power module family”;
Proceedings Automotive Power Electronics; Paris; October 2007
2.3 Sinter Process
For the SKiM product line SEMIKRON improved the sinter process for silver powder to enable it to be
used in series production. This “SKiNTER” process replaces chip soldering and results in very high
degree of joint reliability.
The SKiNTER process works as follows: the silver powder is printed to the DBC substrate. Then the
chips are placed onto this silver layer. The joint is created by applying heat (< 250°C) and pressure.
Though the SKiNTER process temperature is far below the melting point of silver (960 °C), the final
joint is stable up to this temperature.
8
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
The following table Tab. 2-1 shows a comparison between the SKiNTER process and soldering.
Joining temperature
Layer thickness
Formation of voids
Connection layer
Melting temperature
Thermal conductivity
Electrical conductivity
Coefficient of thermal expansion
Tensile strength
SKiNTER process
< 250°C
15 – 20 µm
no
homogeneous
960 °C
240 W/(m·K)
41 m/(Ω·mm²)
-6
19 10 m/K
55 MPa
Soldering
200 – 380°C
typical 70 – 150 µm
possible
inhomogeneous
< 380 °C
70 W/(m·K)
8 m/(Ω·mm²)
-6
28 10 m/K
30 MPa
Tab. 2-1 Comparison between sintering and soldering
For further information on the SKiNTER process, please refer to:
 C. Göbl, P. Beckedahl, H. Braml ; “Low temperature sinter technology Die attachment for automotive power
electronic applications”; Automotive Power Electronics; June 2006
2.4 Protected Springs
When the SKiM is not mounted to the heat sink and the pressure part is not pressed down, the springs
for the auxiliary contacts are protected inside the module (Fig. 2-13). Fig. 2-14 shows a SKiM module
after mounting. The pressure part is pressed down and the spring heads appear at the surface.
Fig. 2-13 SKiM 93: before mounting the auxiliary
springs are invisible
Fig. 2-14 SKiM: the springs appear after mounting.
2.5 Creepage and Clearance Distances
All SKiM IGBT modules comply with the mandatory creepage and clearance distances in accordance
with EN 50178 for
 Grid voltage = 690 V, line to line, grounded delta

Nominal voltage = 1700 V (DC link voltage = 1250 V)

Basic isolation

Pollution degree 2

Comparative Tracking Index “CTI” value of the case < 400
9
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
The following values are complied with:
Creepage distance from main terminal to main terminal
≥ 14 mm
Clearance distance from main terminal to main terminal
≥ 5,8 mm
Creepage distance from any terminal to heat sink potential
≥ 8,3 mm
Clearance distance from any terminal to heat sink potential
≥ 8.0 mm
Creepage distance on the PCB from landing pad to landing pad
≥ 6.3 mm
Tab. 2-2 Creepage and clearance distances for SKiM
“From terminal to terminal” means for main and auxiliary terminals between high-voltage potentials,
not between terminals with small differences in voltage potential, e.g. gate and emitter contacts
(± 20 V) or between the contacts for the temperature sensor.
In the case of “1700 V applications” SEMIKRON recommends the use of “low profile screws” with a
maximum screw head height of 2.8 mm. For 1200 V all of the distances are met with standard screws
(4 mm head height) as given in the mounting instructions.
The following sketches (Fig. 2-15 and Fig. 2-16) show the distances without screws.
Inside the housing, the DBC substrate is coated with a silicone gel for electrical isolation. The gel has
an isolation capability > 20 kV/mm.
Spring contacts
Mounting dome
PCB
Pressure
part
Clearance = 12 mm without screw
Fig. 2-15 Clearance from main terminals to heat sink
potential
Clearance = 11.3 mm without screw
Fig. 2-16 Clearance from PCB to heat sink potential
2.6 Isolation Measurement
The specified isolation voltage is given in the data sheets. In the course of production, this isolation
voltage is verified with a 100% test according to the DIN EN 50178 standard (VDE 0160).
The isolation measurement is performed in two steps:
During the first measurement all main and auxiliary terminals (including main, auxiliary emitter, gate
and temperature sensor contacts) are short circuited and measured against the base plate.
In the second measurement stage the main and auxiliary terminals (including main, auxiliary emitter,
gate contacts) are short circuited, as are the base plate and the temperature sensor contacts. The
voltage Vmeasurement is then applied between these two circuits.
10
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
2.7 Chip Positions
For detailed temperature measurements the exact positions of the chips have to be known. Inside
SKiM modules, the chips are always located in the same positions, regardless of the chip size. The
drawings Fig. 2-20 and Fig. 2-21 show the chip positions measured from the centre of the bottom left
screw hole.
Fig. 2-17 IGBT Chips
Fig. 2-18 Diode Chip
Fig. 2-19 Temperature Sensor
Fig. 2-20 Chip positions in SKiM 63
11
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Fig. 2-21 Chip positions in SKiM 93
2.8 Thermal Material Data
For thermal simulations it is necessary to have the thermal material parameter, as well as the typical
thickness of the different layers in the package. This data is given in Tab. 2-3. For better
understanding, the sketch in Fig. 2-22 shows the different layers in the package.
Chip (IGBT, diode)
SKiNTER layer
DBC copper
DBC ceramic
DBC copper
Thermal paste
Heat sink
Fig. 2-22 Sketch of SKiM package, cross-sectional view
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© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Layer
Material
Layer
thickness
Spec.
thermal
conductivity
Spec.
thermal
capacity
Density
[mm]
[W/m/K]
[J/kg/K]
[kg/m ]
3
IGBT chip (“066”)
Si
0.07
124
750
2330
IGBT chip (“E4”)
Si
0.14
124
750
2330
IGBT chip (“17”)
Si
0.19
124
750
2330
Diode chip
Si
0.24
124
750
2330
Chip joint
Ag-sinter layer
~ 0.02
250
230
7350
DBC copper
Cu
0.30
390
390
8960
DBC ceramic
Al2O3
0.38
24
830
3780
DBC copper
Cu
0.30
390
390
8960
Thermal paste
Customer-specific
0.25
Heat sink
Customer-specific
Tab. 2-3 Material data for thermal simulations
2.9 Pressure Force on the Heat Sink
For the heat sink design it may be necessary to know what force is applied by the SKiM module. This
information is given in Tab. 2-4. The sketch in Fig. 2-23 shows how the values in Tab. 2-4 are to be
understood.
Pressure stress per
half bridge
[N/mm²]
SKiM 63
1.06
SKiM 93
1.27
Tab. 2-4 Pressure forces produced by SKiM modules
Given data
applies to one
half bridge =
1/3 of a SKiM
Fig. 2-23 Sketch of SKiM 63, bottom view
13
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
3 Chip Technologies and Product Ranges
3.1 IGBT Chip Technologies and Product Range
SKiM IGBT modules are available with 600 V, 1200 V and 1700 V IGBTs.
Design Principles
IGBT chips are based on two different main design principles. The first is related to the gate structure:
trench or planar gate, while the second relates to the IGBT technology used: punch through (“PT”) or
non-punch through (“NPT”).
The planar gate is a cost-effective structure based on doping processes and produces a horizontal
gate structure (Fig. 3-3). The sophisticated trench gate, in comparison, is based on a combination of
doping, etching and filling processes. The trench process leads to a very efficient, vertical gate
structure and allows for small chip sizes (Fig. 3-4), which in turn allow for compact module design.
Despite this, the smaller chip sizes lead to higher thermal resistance at the same time.
The term “Punch-Through” describes the shape of the electric field inside the IGBT during blocking
+
state. As shown in Fig. 3-1, the electric field punches through the n layer into the n layer. Inside the
+
n layer the field is steeper than in the n layer. Thanks to this, the PT-IGBT can be thinner than an
NPT-IGBT (Fig. 3-2) and the overall losses are lower.
In the past, PT-IGBTs were made of “epitaxial” material and had a negative temperature coefficient for
the forward voltage drop VCE(sat), making paralleling very difficult. State-of-the-art “Soft-Punch Through”
and “Field Stop” PT-IGBTs, however, have a positive temperature coefficient and allow for parallel
use.
G at e
Em itte r
Gate
Emitter
E
E
n
n
p
p
n-
n-
n+
p+
C o lle ct o r
p+
x
x
Collector
Fig. 3-1 Punch-Through IGBT (with planar gate)
Fig. 3-2 Non-Punch Through IGBT (with planar gate)
Trench IGBT
rd
SEMIKRON type designation: “066” for 600 V, “126” for 1200 V, “176” for 1700 V 3
th
“IGBT3”, “12T4”, “12E4”, for the 1200 V 4 generation “IGBT4”.
generation
+
The “Trench IGBT” chip design is based on a trench-gate structure combined with a “Field Stop” n
th
buffer layer for punch through feature, as shown in Fig. 3-4. With the introduction of the 4 generation,
this general design was not changed, but the trade-off between the on-state losses VCE(sat) and the
switching losses Eon+Eoff was optimised for operation with switching frequencies above 4 kHz.
Furthermore, the “IGBT4” is able to operate with a maximum junction temperature T j,max = 175 °C. The
increased Tj,max offers more flexibility in overload conditions or for applications with few temperature
cycles (e.g. pumps or fans) where the junction temperature might now exceed the former limits.
14
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Gate
Emitter
n
p
Gate
n+
p
n-
n-
n+
p+
n+
p+
Collector
Fig. 3-3 IGBT with planar gate and “Soft Punch
Through” technology
Emitter
Collector
Fig. 3-4 IGBT with trench gate and “Field Stop”
technology
For further information on “IGBT4”, please refer to:
 R. Annacker, R. Herzer, IGBT4 Technology Improves Application Performance, Bodo´s Power
Systems, Issue June 2007
 A. Wintrich, IGBT4 and Freewheeling Diode CAL4 in IGBT Modules, SEMIKRON Application
Note, AN- 7005, Nuremberg, 2008
Inverse and Freewheeling Diodes
The free-wheeling diodes used in SKiM IGBT modules are specially optimized CAL (Controlled Axial
Lifetime) diodes, or HD CAL (High Density CAL) diodes. These fast, "super soft" planar diodes are
characterised by the optimal axial profile of the charge carrier life-time.
This leads to:
 Low peak reverse current lowering the inrush current load on the IGBTs in bridge circuits.

A "Soft" decrease in the reverse current across the entire operating temperature range, which
minimizes switching surges and interference.

A robust performance even when switching at high di/dt.

Very good paralleling capability thanks to the negligible negative temperature coefficient and the
small forward voltage VF spread.
Compared with CAL diodes, HD CAL diodes display reduced forward voltages at negligible higher
switching losses and an almost invariant forward voltage temperature coefficient.
SEMIKRON’s newly developed “CAL4” diode is designed specifically for use with the “IGBT4”
generation. This new device boasts low thermal losses and outstanding soft switching behaviour even
at extreme commutation speeds. Further, the newly developed junction termination ensures safe
operation up to 175 °C.
For further information on CAL4, please refer to:
 V. Demuth et al., CAL 4: The Next-Generation 1200V Freewheeling Diode, Proceedings PCIM
China, 2007
15
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
3.2 Safe Operating Area for IGBTs
Safe Operating Areas are not included in the datasheets. They are given as standardized figures.
These figures apply to 600 V, 1200 V and 1700 V.
Safe Operating Area
IGBT modules must not be used in linear mode.
10
IC/ICRM
SOA-SEMiX.xls
Tc ≤ 25 °C
Tj ≤ 150 °C
single pulse
tpulse =
0,1 ms
1,0 ms
10 ms
1
1/1
DC
0,1
1/10
0,01
1/100
0,001
0,001
0,01
1/100
0,1
1/10
VCE/V
10
CES
1
1/1
Fig. 3-5 Safe Operating Area (SOA)
Reverse Bias Safe Operating Area
The maximum VCES value must never be exceeded. Due to the internal stray inductance of the
module, a small voltage will be induced during switching. The maximum voltage at the terminals
VCE max, T must therefore be smaller than VCE max (see dotted line in Fig. 3-6). This value can be
calculated using the formula (3-1) given below. The value for tf(IC) can be taken from figure 7 of the
data sheets.
I  0.8 
VCEmax,T  VCES  LCE   C

 t f IC  
(3-1)
SOA-SEMiX.xls
1,2/
IC,pulse
ICRM
1
Tc ≤ 25 °C
Tj ≤ 150 °C
tpulse ≤ 1 ms
0,8
0,6
0,4
0,2
0
0
0,2
0,4
0,6
0,8
1
VCE/VCES
1,2
1,4
Fig. 3-6 Reverse Bias Safe Operating Area (RBSOA)
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© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Short Circuit Safe Operating Area
The number of short circuits must not exceed 1000. The time between short circuits must be > 1 s.
The duration time of the short circuit pulse tpsc is limited. Please refer to the maximum values for tpsc
given in the data sheet.
IC,sc
12/
IC,nom
SOA-SEMiX.xls
10
Tj ≤ 150 °C
VGE = ± 15 V
di/dt ≤ 2500 A/µs
8
6
4
2
0
0
0,2
0,4
0,6
0,8
VCE/VCES
1,2
1,4
1
Fig. 3-7 Short Circuit Safe Operating Area (SCSOA)
3.3 Surge Current Characteristics of CAL Diodes
When the CAL diode operates as a rectifier diode in an “IV-Q” application, it is necessary to know the
ratio of the permissible overload on-state current IF(OV) to the surge on-state current IFSM as a function
of the load period t and the ratio of VR / VRRM. VR denotes the reverse voltage applied between the
sinusoidal half waves. VRRM is the peak reverse voltage.
IFSM-CAL-Diode.xls
2
IF(OV)
1,8
IFSM
1,6
Applicable to sinusodial pulses (50 Hz)
1,4
0VRRM
0,5VRRM
1VRRM
1,2
1
IF
IF(OV)
0,8
0,6
0,4
1
t
10
100
ms 1000
10
20
30
40
t [ms]
Fig. 3-8 Surge overload current vs. time
3.4 Selection Guide
The correct choice of the IGBT module depends very much on the application itself. A lot of different
parameters and conditions have to be taken into account: Vin, Iin, Vout, Iout, fswitch, fout, overload, load
cycles, cooling conditions, etc. Due to this variety of parameters a simplified selection guide is not
seriously feasible.
For this reason SEMIKRON offers the selection, calculation and simulation tool “SEMISEL” under
http://semisel.semikron.com/. Almost all design parameters can be edited for various input or output
conditions. Different cooling conditions can be chosen and specific design needs can be effectively
determined.
© by SEMIKRON
17
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
4 Thermal Resistances
4.1 Measuring Thermal Resistance Rth(j-s)
The thermal resistance is defined as given in the following equation (4-1)
Rth1 2  
ΔT T1  T2

PV
PV
(4-1)
The data sheet values for the thermal resistances are based on measured values. As can be seen in
equation (4-1), the temperature difference ΔT has a major influence on the Rth value. As a result, the
reference point and the measurement method have a major influence, too.
Since SKiM modules have no base plate, the typical case temperature (T c) and hence the Rth(j-c) value
cannot be given. Instead, SEMIKRON gives the thermal resistance between the junction and the heat
sink Rth(j-s). This value depends largely on the thermal paste. Thus, the value is given as a “typical”
value in the data sheets.
SEMIKRON measures the Rth(j-s) of SKiM modules on the basis of the reference points given in Fig.
4-1. The reference points are as follows:
 Tj - The junction of the chip
 Ts – The heat sink temperature is measured in a drill hole, 2 mm beneath the module, directly
under the chip. The 2 mm is derived from our experience, which has shown that at this distance
from the DBC ceramic, parasitic effects resulting from heat sink parameters (size, thermal
conductivity etc.) are at a minimum and the disturbance induced by the thermocouple itself is
negligible.
Reference point Tj
(junction),
silicon chip, hot spot
DBC substrate
No copper baseplate!
Thermal grease
2 mm
Heatsink
Reference point Ts (heat sink)
Fig. 4-1 Location of reference points for Rth measurement as used for SKiM
For further information on the measurement of thermal resistances, please refer to:
 M. Freyberg, U. Scheuermann, “Measuring Thermal Resistance of Power Modules “; PCIM Europe,
May, 2003
4.2 Transient Thermal Impedance
When switching on a “cold” module, the thermal resistance R th appears smaller than the static value
as given in the data sheets. This phenomenon occurs due to the internal thermal capacities of the
package (cf. Fig. 2-22). These thermal capacities are “uncharged” and will be charged with the heating
energy resulting from the losses during operation. In the course of this charging process the R th value
seems to increase. During this time it is therefore called transient thermal impedance Z th. When all
18
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
thermal capacities are charged and the heating energy has to be emitted to the ambience, the
transient thermal resistance Zth will have reached the static data sheet value Rth.
The advantage of this behaviour is the short-term overload capability of the power module.
10
Zth(j-c)/Rth(j-s)
1
0,1
0,01
0,001
0,0001
0,00001
0,0001
0,001
0,01
0,1
tP
[s]
1
Fig. 4-2 Transient Thermal Impedance
The transient thermal behaviour is measured during SEMIKRON’s module approval process. On the
basis of this measurement a mathematical model is derived, resulting in the following equation (4-2):
t
t
t
 
 
 



τ3 
τ1 
τ2 



Zth t   R1 1 e
 R2 1 e
 R3 1  e












(4-2)
For SKiM modules, the coefficients R1, τ1, and R2, τ2 can be determined using the data sheet values
as given in Tab. 4-1.
Parameter
Unit
IGBT, CAL diode
R1
[K/W]
0.11 x Rth(j-s)
R2
[K/W]
0.77 x Rth(j-s)
R3
[K/W]
0.12 x Rth(j-s)
τ1
[sec]
1.0
τ2
[sec]
0.13
τ3
[sec]
0.002
Tab. 4-1 Parameters for Zth(j-s) calculation using equation (4-2)
19
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
5 Integrated Temperature Sensor Specifications
All SKiM IGBT modules feature a temperature-dependent resistor for temperature measurement. The
resistor is sintered onto the same DBC ceramic substrate near the IGBT and diode chips and reflects
the actual case temperature. Every single half bridge has its own temperature sensor. For the exact
locations of these sensors, please refer to Fig. 2-20 and Fig. 2-21.
Since the cooling conditions have a significant influence on the temperature distribution inside SKiM
modules, it is necessary to evaluate the dependency between the temperatures of interest (e.g. chip
temperature) and the signal from the integrated temperature sensor.
5.1 Electrical Characteristic
The temperature sensor has a nominal resistance of 5 kΩ at 25 °C. The measuring current should be
1 mA; the maximum value is 3 mA.
The built-in temperature sensor in SKiM is a resistor with a negative temperature coefficient (NTC). Its
characteristic is given in Fig. 5-1
A mathematical approximation (in the range from 80 °C to 150 °C) for the sensor resistance as a
function of temperature R(T) is given by:
R(T)
= R100 x exp[B100/125 x (1/T - 1/T100)]
With
R100
= 339 Ω
B100/125 = 4096 K
T100
= 100 °C = 373.15 K
R(T)
= 339 Ω x exp[4096 x (1/T - 1/373.15 K)]
140
Resistance Value [kOhm]
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
-50
-25
0
25
50
75
100
125
150
Temperature [°C]
Fig. 5-1 Typical characteristic of the NTC temperature sensor (included in every SKiM half bridge)
20
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
1,00
0,90
Resistance Value [kOhm]
0,80
0,70
0,60
0,50
0,40
0,30
0,20
0,10
0,00
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
Temperature [°C]
Fig. 5-2 Characteristic of the NTC temperature sensor with tolerances
Temperature
[°C]
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
110
120
130
140
150
Resistance Value
minimum
[kΩ]
147.237
78.766
43.908
25.394
15.180
9.335
5.910
3.813
2.504
1.682
1.153
0.807
0.576
0.418
0.308
0.232
0.176
0.136
0.106
0.084
standard
[kΩ]
168.105
88.454
48.555
27.681
16.326
9.947
6.245
4.029
2.664
1.802
1.243
0.875
0.628
0.458
0.339
0.255
0.195
0.151
0.118
0.093
maximum
[kΩ]
188.972
98.141
53.202
29.967
17.471
10.559
6.581
4.245
2.824
1.921
1.333
0.943
0.679
0.497
0.370
0.279
0.213
0.165
0.129
0.102
Tolerance
maximum
deviation
[%]
12.4
11.0
9.6
8.3
7.0
6.2
5.4
5.4
6.0
6.6
7.2
7.8
8.3
8.7
9.1
9.2
9.4
9.6
9.8
10.0
Tab. 5-1 Resistance values and tolerance
21
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
5.2 Electrical Isolation
Inside SKiM modules the temperature sensors are mounted close to the IGBT and diode dice onto the
same substrate. The minimum distance between the copper conductors is = 0.80 ± 0.2 mm. (Fig. 5-3)
= 0.80 ± 0.2 mm
Fig. 5-3 Detail: Temperature sensor inside SKiM
According to EN 50178 (VDE 0160), this design does not provide "Safe Electrical Insulation", because
the temperature sensor inside the SKiM module might be exposed to high voltages during
semiconductor short-circuit failure mode. After electrical overstress the bond wires could melt off,
producing an arc with high-energy plasma in the process (as shown in Fig. 5-4). In this case the
direction of plasma expansion is unpredictable and the temperature sensor might come into contact
with the plasma.
The safety grade "Safe Electrical Insulation" in accordance with EN 50178 can be achieved by
different additional means, which are described in this standard in more detail.
Fig. 5-4 Sketch of high energy plasma caused by bond wire melting
Please note: To ensure that electrical isolation Visol as stated in the data sheets is provided, suitable
measurements are performed during the production process. These are described in section 2.6.
22
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
6
Spring Contact System Specifications
6.1 Spring and Contact Specifications
Rating / Specification
Material
Copper: DIN 2076-CuSn6
With silver surface: Abrasiveness 75 to
95 HV, tarnish protection < 0.1 µm
Contact force
3 to 5 N
Maximum contact
resistance including
ageing
- 200 mΩ (current ≤ 1A)
- 25 mΩ (current > 1A)
Comment
For one spring
tested according to IEC
600068-2-43 (10 days,
10 ppm H2S, 75 % RH,
25°C)
Tab. 6-1 Specifications for SKiM contact springs
6.2 PCB Specifications (Landing Pads for Springs)
Rating / Specification
Comment
Chem. Sn
(Chemical deposition)
no min. thickness
Intermetallic phases may
be contacted
HAL Sn
(Hot Air Levelling)
no min. thickness
Intermetallic phases may
be contacted
NiAu
Ni ≥ 3µm, Au ≥ 20nm
(Electro less nickel, immersion gold)
Tight Ni diffusion barrier
required
SnPb
no min. thickness
Intermetallic phases may
be contacted
Tab. 6-2 Specifications for the surface metallization of landing pads for SKiM contact springs
6.3 Storage Conditions
Unassembled
Rating / Specification
Comment
28 month / 60 °C 95% RH
After extreme humidity the
reverse current limits may
be exceeded but do not
degrade the performance
of the SKiM
(max. storage time of module is 18 month and
limited by pre-applied thermal paste)
Assembled
28 month / 60 °C 95% RH
Tab. 6-3 Storage conditions for SKiM modules with silver-plated contact springs
23
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
6.4 Stray Inductance of Contact Springs
The spiral springs look like the coils of an inductor. This would seem to contradict one of the main
requirements in power electronics: “low inductance”. In measurements, however, these springs have
not been shown to have any influence on switching behaviour. The following calculations verify the
results obtained in practice.
In this respect, the SKiM module, which features springs and PCB tracks between the driver and the
springs, is comparable with a SEMITRANS module, which has internal wiring and wiring between
driver and module.
6.4.1 Self-Inductance of the Spring Connection
Fig. 6-1 Principle of springs and PCB conductors
Inductance spiral spring LSp (with l = 5…10 D)
µ
π  D2
L Sp  μ  n 2 
l
D
4  l2  D2
n
L SP  77nH
Fig. 6-2 SKiM with directly mounted driver
= µ0 = 1,26 µH/m
= 11.5 mm (length, spring under pressure)
= 1.5 mm (inner diameter)
= 20 (number of coils)
Inductance PCB tracks LPCB
l 2 μ 
a 
 ln1 

π
 db
 31nH
L PCB 
L PCB
µ
l
a
d
b
= µ0 = 1.26 µH/m
= 100 mm (length spring pad to driver output stage)
= 0.5 mm (distance between conductors on PCB)
= 50 µm (thickness of copper layer)
= 1 mm width of the copper track
Total: LSp+PCB = 108 nH
6.4.2 Self-Inductance of a SEMITRANS Module
Fig. 6-3 Open SEMITRANS 3 module. Yellow and red
wires are gate and emitter wires, respectively
24
Fig. 6-4 SEMITRANS 3 module: wire connections to
driver
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Inductance inside of the module LW1
l1  μ  2  a 
 ln

π
 d 
 50nH
L W1 
L W1
µ
l1
a
d
= µ0 = 1.26 µH/m
= 50 mm (wire length inside the module)
= 3 mm (distance between wires)
= 0.5 mm (wire diameter)
µ
l2
a
d
= µ0 = 1.26 µH/m
= 100 mm (wire length outside the module)
= 3 mm (distance between wires)
= 0.5 mm (wire diameter)
Inductance outside of the module LW2
l2  μ  2  a 
 ln

π
 d 
 100nH
L W1 
L W1
Total: LW1+W2 = 150 nH
This inductance is in the same range as that of the solution with spring contacts and a PCB track.
6.4.3 Conclusion and Discussion
Since the values for the parasitic inductances of SKiM and SEMITRANS modules are in the same
range, a comparison would not prove particularly useful. Instead, the influence of the stray inductance
on the gate voltage is generally looked at for comparison. Fig. 6-5 shows that self-inductance in wires
has virtually no effect on the switching behaviour of the power semiconductor (neither in theory nor in
the measurements performed).
L
20
15
VGE [V]
10
V
RG
5
L = 10 nH
L = 150 nH
L = 300 nH
V_GE(th)
0
-5
Cies
VGE
-10
0
0,1
0,2
0,3
0,4
0,5
0,6
t [µs]
Fig. 6-5 Influence of stray inductance on the gate voltage (model: voltage rise V GE at a capacitor CG for different
circuit inductances L) (Cies ≈ QG / VG = 1 µC / 23 V = 43 nF, RG = 4 , dVGE = 23 V)
A voltage across the gate wire inductance is induced only at the beginning when the gate voltage is
applied. This voltage is far below the threshold voltage VGE(th). When the voltages rise to within the
range of the threshold voltage where the switching event starts, the voltages are similar for all
inductances. A small effect on the delay time during switching can be seen; in the example given in
Fig. 6-5 this delay is around 20 ns for the highest assumed value of 300 nH. For higher gate resistor
values this small difference disappears entirely.
25
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
7 Reliability
7.1 Standard Tests for the Qualification of SKiM Modules
The objectives of the test program (refer to Tab. 7-1) are:
1. Assure the general product quality and reliability.
2. Evaluate design limits by stressing under a variety of testing conditions.
3. Ensure the consistency and predictability of the production processes.
4. Appraise process and design changes regarding their effect on reliability.
Reliability Test
High Temperature Reverse Bias
(HTRB)
IEC 60747
High Temperature Gate Bias
(HTGB)
IEC 60747
High Humidity High Temperature
Reverse Bias
(THB)
IEC 60068-2-67
High Temperature Storage
(HTS)
IEC 60068-2-2
Low Temperature Storage
(LTS)
IEC 60068-2-1
Thermal Cycling
(TC)
IEC 60068-2-14 Test Na
Power Cycling
(PC)
IEC 60749-34
Vibration
IEC 60068-2-6 Test Fc
Mechanical Shock
IEC 60068-2-27 Test Ea
Standard Test Conditions for
SKiM IGBT Modules
1000 h,
VCE = 95 % VCEmax,
Tc = 160 °C
1000 h,
 VGEmax,
T = 175 °C
1000 h,
85 °C, 85 % RH,
VCE = 80 % VCEmax,
VCEmax, max. 80 V,
VGE = 0 V
1000 h, + 135 °C
1000 h, - 40 °C
500 cycles,
- 40 °C to + 125 °C
25.000 load cycles,
ΔTj = 110 K
Sinusoidal sweep, 10g,
2 h per axis (x, y, z)
Half sine pulse, 100g, 3 times
each direction (x, y, z)
Tab. 7-1 SEMIKRON standard qualification tests
26
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
7.2 Reliability of Spring Contacts
The SKiM spring contact for the auxiliaries is a solder-free contact. It can therefore be compared with
other solder-free contacts such as screw terminals or plug connectors. In Fig. 7-1 these “connections”
are compiled for comparison.
Screwed main terminals
Plug connectors
Spring contacts
Pressure force
typ. 50 N/mm²
Pressure force
typ. 10 N/mm²
Pressure force
typ. 20 - 100 N/mm²
Fig. 7-1 Comparison of not soldered electrical connections
The surface materials for the spring contacts as given in Tab. 6-1and Tab. 6-2 (silver-plated spring
and, for example, tin surface for PCB landing pads) are based on “state-of-the-art” knowledge as
gained from long-term experience with plug connectors and SEMIKRON’s long-term experience with
spring connections. Compared to a plug connector, the spring contact has a far greater pressure and
contact force, which accounts for the superior reliability of this connection.
To verify this reliability, several harsh tests were performed on the spring contacts: temperature
cycling, temperature shock tests, fretting corrosion (= micro vibration), electromigration, and a
corrosive atmosphere test in accordance with IEC 60068-2-43:
 Atmosphere:
10 ppm H2S

Temperature:

Relative humidity: 75 %

Volume flow:
> volume x 3 per hour

Duration:
10 days
25 °C
 No current load during storage
All of these tests were passed successfully and demonstrated the outstanding reliability of
SEMIKRON’s spring contacts.
It goes without saying that SKiM modules passed all SEMIKRON standard reliability tests as given in
Tab. 7-1
For further information on the reliability of spring contacts, please refer to:
 F. Lang, Dr. U. Scheuermann, “Reliability of spring pressure contacts under environmental stress”,
Proc. Microelectronics Reliability Volume 47, Issues 9-11, September-November 2007, (18th
European Symposium on Reliability of Electron Devices, Failure Physics and Analysis)
27
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
7.3 Reliability of SKiNTER Layer
In power semiconductor modules different materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion
are soldered together. Owing to this material bond, the layers cannot expand and release freely when
temperature changes occurs, the result being thermally induced mechanical stress.
The longer the joint, the more stress is induced and the more fatigue occurs.
The illustrations in Fig. 7-2 and Fig. 7-3 show the package of different materials. Based on the
materials shown in Tab. 7-2, temperature differences T-Tsink are given as resulting under similar
operating conditions in these packages. With the coefficient of thermal expansion  the elongation
ratio L/L0 induced by the thermal expansion inside the package is calculated by equation
L  L0 L

   T  TSink 
L0
L0
The materials cannot, of course, expand freely. Thus the difference of the figures for the theoretical
expansion is an indicator for the resulting thermally induced stress in the bonding layer between these
materials.
L0
L0
Silicon
Silicon
Substrate
Substrate
Base plate
Fig. 7-2 Material layers of a standard IGBT module
Silicon
Substrate
Base plate
T-Tsink
in K
69.0
54.4
36.9
Fig. 7-3 Material layers of a SKiM module
Standard IGBT module

ΔL/L0
-6
in 10 1/K
4.1
0.28
8.3
0.45
17.5
0.50
T-Tsink
in K
69.3
55.3
SKiM module

-6
in 10 1/K
4.1
8.3
ΔL/L0
0.28
0.46
Tab. 7-2 Temperatures and thermal expansion for packages as shown in Fig. 7-2 and Fig. 7-3
The fatigue in the joint layers can be seen in the increase in thermal resistance. The increase in
thermal resistance causes the chip temperature to increase too, because the output power remains
unchanged. The increase in chip temperature in turn leads to an increase of T-Tsink, leading to even
more stress in the layers and accelerating the fatigue.
Solder layers, in particular, demonstrate aging as described above. This is due to the fact that the
operation temperature of the module (125 °C to 150 °C) is very close to the melting temperature of the
solder (220 °C to 250 °C), making the solder layer weak. With the SKiNTER layer the operation
temperature is far below the melting point of silver (960 °C). In turn, the SKiNTER technology does not
display this accelerated fatigue.
Practical investigations have verified the theoretical considerations. Fig. 7-4 shows the results of
power cycling tests with soldered and sintered IGBT modules. The solder layer fatigue and the
accelerated aging process lead to an increase in thermal resistance and module failure after 40 000
cycles.
The thermal resistance of the sintered layer does not increase. Modules in SKiNTER technology boast
a >30% longer service life and improved reliability.
28
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Thermal Resistance in Power Cycling Test
T c,min=40°C, T j,max =128°C
0,400
Thermal Resistance R thjc [K/W]
solder
0,350
0,300
0,250
0,200
0,150
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Power Cycles
[in thousands]
soldered chip (1)
soldered chip (2)
diffusion sintered (1)
diffusion sintered (2)
Fig. 7-4 Change in thermal resistance during active power cycle tests
For further information on the reliability of solder-free IGBT modules, please refer to:
 Dr. U. Scheuermann, P.Beckedahl, “The Road to the Next Generation Power Module - 100%
Solder Free Design”, Proc. CIPS 2008, ETG-Fachbericht 111, 111-120, Nuremberg, 2008.
29
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
8
Design Recommendations for SKiM
The following recommendations are tips only and do not constitute a complete set of design rules. The
responsibility for proper design remains with the user of the SKiM modules.
8.1 Printed Circuit Board Design
8.1.1 PCB Specification
Recommendations for the printed circuit board:

“FR 4” material can be used as a material for the printed circuit board.

The thickness of copper layers should comply with IEC 326-3.

The landing pads must not contain plated-through holes (“VIAs”) to prevent contact deterioration.
In the remaining area VIAs can be used as desired.

The landing pads for the auxiliary contacts must have a diameter of Ø = 3.5 mm ± 0.2 mm.

As stated in section “PCB Specifications (Landing Pads for Springs)”, pure tin (Sn) is an approved
interface for use with SKiM spring contacts. Sufficient plating thickness must be guaranteed in
accordance with the PCB manufacturing process. The tin surface is normally applied to the PCB
chemically or in a hot-air levelling process.
A second approved surface for the landing pads is electro-less nickel with a final immersion gold
layer (Ni + Au).
Not recommended for use are boards with “organic solder ability preservative” (OSP) passivation,
because OSP is not suitable for guaranteeing long-term corrosion-free contact. The OSP
passivation disappears during soldering or after approximately 6 months of storage.

During the solder processes the landing pads for SKiM spring contacts need to be covered and
protected from contamination. This is particularly crucial for wave soldering. No residue of the
cover material must be left on the landing pads as this could lead to deterioration of the electrical
contact in the long term.
8.1.2 PCB Alignment Support
SKiM offers a special alignment support for the printed circuit board and makes the assembly “poka
yoke proof”. (For PCB mounting please refer to the mounting instructions)
As shown in Fig. 8-1 SKiM has three guide pins. Thanks to these pins, the PCB can be easily placed
on the module. There is no pin in the fourth corner. Only one method of assembly is possible if the
PCB is shaped with three notches as shown in Fig. 8-2 and Fig. 8-3.
The SKiM also has two alignment rings, which are used to put the PCB in position irrespective of the
guiding pins.
For detailed case drawings please refer to the data sheet.
Fig. 8-1 SKiM with 3 x guiding pins and 2 x alignment rings, pressure part in pressed down position.
30
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
8.1.3 PCB Outline, Location of Landing Pads
The following drawings show the outline of a PCB for SKIM 63 (Fig. 8-2) and for SKiM 93 (Fig. 8-3).
The drawings show:
 The outer dimensions of the PCB itself

The location and dimensions of the drill holes

The location and dimensions of the landing pads
Please note: the layout of the landing pads for SKiM 63 and SKiM 93 is the same. Only the width of
the PCB and the location of the drill holes for mounting is different.
Fig. 8-2 Landing pads layout for SKiM 63 (bottom view)
31
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Fig. 8-3 Landing pads layout for SKiM 93 (bottom view)
8.1.4 General Design Rules
The following general design rules should be taken into account when developing an IGBT driver
circuit:
 To suppress interference in the gate signals, magnetic coupling of any kind between the main
current and the gate circuits has to be avoided. This can be achieved, for example, by using short
gate and emitter connections, whose tracks should be led parallel and very close to each other,
i.e. “no open loops”. Furthermore, the tracks should be in line with the main magnetic field = 90°
to the main current flow IC.

IGBT modules need to be turned off by a negative gate voltage V GEoff. Otherwise unwanted switchon via Miller capacitance Cres may occur.

For short-circuit switch-off, a soft-switch-off circuit in the gate drive circuit (e.g. increased R Goff) is
®
recommended to decrease the voltage overshoots in this particular case. SEMIKRON’s SKYPER
PRO offers this feature.
8.1.5 Gate Clamping
To ensure that the gate voltage VGE does not exceed the maximum value stated in the data sheet, the
use of an appropriate gate clamping circuit (e.g. two anti-serial Z-diodes DGE, VZ = 16 V, as shown in
Fig. 8-4) is recommended. This circuit has to be placed as close to the auxiliary contacts as possible.
It is necessary to ensure that the IGBT is always in a defined state, especially in cases where the
driver is not able to deliver a defined gate voltage VGE. A suitable solution to this problem is to use a
resistor between gate and emitter RGE (≈ 20 kΩ).
32
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
This circuit is meant as an addition to the circuit shown in Fig. 8-8
RGE
DGE
Fig. 8-4 Gate clamping circuit
8.1.6 Connection of Unused Springs for GAL and GAR Types
SKiM modules are always equipped with all auxiliary springs (as shown in Fig. 8-5) regardless of
which circuit is inside. This means landing pads as given in Fig. 8-2 and Fig. 8-3 are necessary in any
case. For GAL and GAR types the unused springs (marked red in Fig. 8-6 and Fig. 8-7) must be put on
a defined voltage potential - normally 0 V. Otherwise displacement currents might lead to disturbance.
Fig. 8-5 Pinout of “GD type” (sixpack)
Fig. 8-6 Pinout of “GAL type”
Fig. 8-7 Pinout of “GAR type”
8.2 Paralleling SKiM IGBT Modules
When paralleling SKiM IGBT modules it is necessary to provide gate signal decoupling as well as
homogeneous and low-inductance AC and DC connections.
8.2.1 Paralleling of Gate and Emitter Connections
For optimum and smooth switching behaviour for all paralleled IGBTs it is necessary to ensure
decoupling of the gate signals. For this reason every single gate needs its own gate resistor R G,x
(≥ 2 Ω), as shown in Fig. 8-8.
Paralleled IGBT modules and half bridges must be controlled by one driver. When using single drivers,
there is no way of ensuring that all IGBTs switch simultaneously, meaning that the current distribution
between these modules will not be even.
33
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Furthermore, in Fig. 8-8 resistors RE,x (≥ 0.5 Ω) can be seen at every emitter contact. These resistors
are also necessary to ensure homogeneous switching of the paralleled IGBTs. Additionally, these
resistors dampen cross currents in the network resulting from main and auxiliary emitter paralleling.
The additional Shottky diode (100 V, 1 A) parallel to RE,x ensures the safe turn-off of high currents (e.g.
if a short-circuit occurs).
To achieve similar parasitic inductances and homogeneous switching behaviour, the conductor
lengths from the supply point to the individual gate and emitter connections should have the same
length for all paralleled IGBTs.
C
RG,1
RG,2
RG,n
RE,1
RE,2
RE,n
DE,1
DE,2
DE,n
IGBT Driver
Gon
Goff
RGon,main
RGoff,main
E
E
Fig. 8-8 Circuit with RG,x and RE,x introduced for signal decoupling
8.2.2 Main Terminal Paralleling
For optimum current distribution it is necessary for all parasitic stray inductances to be the same for
every module. The same loop length for all connections is a good indicator for the same inductance.
Fig. 8-9 shows an optimised AC connection: the length from all module terminals to the output is the
same and all terminals are shorted very close to the module, keeping them on the same voltage
potential.
(Note: an additional mechanical support is recommended to prevent excessive mechanical forces at
the terminals – refer also to the mounting instructions)
The same rules apply to the DC connection. Here, the point of supply from the rectifier should also be
central and not from one side. This ensures very similar stray inductances at the DC terminals, too.
Support
poles
Fig. 8-9 Paralleled SKiM with low inductance DC link and symmetric AC link for optimised current distribution
34
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
8.3 DC Link Bus Bars, Snubber Capacitors
Due to stray inductances in the DC link, voltage overshoots as shown in Fig. 8-10 occur during IGBT
switch-off (caused by the energy which is stored in the stray inductances). These voltage overshoots
may destroy the IGBT module because they are added to the DC link voltage and may lead to VCE >
VCES.
First of all, the stray inductances have to be reduced to the lowest possible limit. This includes the
low-inductance DC link design, as well as the use of low-inductance DC link capacitors. The use of
snubber capacitors with a very low stray inductance, a low “ESR” Equivalent Series Resistance and a
high “IR” Ripple Current Capability is recommended.
IGBT-switch-off.xls
VCE
∆V1
ΔV22 
∆V2
VCC
ΔV1  Lstray snubber  diC /dt
Lstray DC bus  iC2
Csnubber
iC
diC/dt
= Operating current
= During switch-off
VCC
= DC link voltage
0
0
t
Fig. 8-10 Voltage overshoots as caused by parasitic inductances
Furthermore, a pulse capacitor as snubber (see Fig. 8-11 and Fig. 8-12) should be placed between the
+/- DC terminals of the SKiM. This snubber works as a low-pass filter and “takes over” the voltage
overshoot.
Typical values for these capacitors are from 0.1 µF to 1.0 µF. Proper measurements should be
performed to ensure that the right snubber is selected.
Fig. 8-11 Recommended snubber capacitor type.
Fig. 8-12 Non-recommended snubber (too high a stray
inductance).
For further information on snubber capacitors, please refer to:
 J. Lamp, IGBT Peak Voltage Measurement and Snubber Capacitor Specification, Semikron
Application Note, AN-7006, Nuremberg, 2008.
35
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
9 Marking
9.1 “Passed” marking on housing
Pre-assembled housings are 100% in-line tested.
Black test dot
A “passed” test result will be marked with a black dot.
9.2 Laser Marking for Modules
All SKiM modules are laser marked. The marking contains the following items (see Fig. 9-1):
1
2
3
4
5
Fig. 9-1 Typical laser marking of SKiM module
1
2
3
4
5
SEMIKRON logo, with product line designation “SKiM®”
Data Matrix Code (refer also to section “Data Matrix Code”)
Type designation, for details refer to section ”Type Designation System”
SEMIKRON order code
Date code – 5 digits: YYMML (L = Lot of same type per week)
The date code might be followed by
 “R” if the module is in accordance with the RoHS directive

36
“E” for engineering samples
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
9.3 Data Matrix Code
The Data Matrix Code is described as follows:
 Type:
ECC 200

Standard: ISO / IEC 16022

Cell size:

Field size: 26 x 26

Dimension: 8 x 8 mm plus a guard zone of 1 mm (circulating)

The following data is coded:
0.3 mm
1
2
SKiM909GD066HD
1
2
3
4
5
6
16
1
10
12
1
1
digits
digit
digits
digits
digit
digit
3
4
23930790
0DE050091001
Type designation
Blank
Part number
Production tracking number
Blank
Measurement number
5
7
8
9
10
11
1
1
4
1
5
6
7
1
5
digit
digit
digits
digit
digits
8
6
10
0006
11
10100
Line identifier (production)
Blank
Continuous number
Blank
Date code
Total: 53 digits maximum
37
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
10 Bill of Materials
The SKiM modules “SKiM 63” and “SKiM 93” are both made from materials listed in Tab. 10-1.
ESD Cover
Pressure part
Spring rubber plate
Bus bar isolation foils
Contact springs
Bus bars
Injection-moulded
inserts (nuts)
Injection-moulded bushes
Housing
Power hybrid
Fig. 10-1 Sketch of SKiM 63 to illustrate the parts used
Pressure part
Spring rubber plate
Bus bar isolation foils
Bus bars
Contact springs
Injection-moulded inserts
(nuts)
Injection-moulded bushes
Housing
Polyamide 66 + 35% glass fibre, UL-V0 (does not contain free halogens)
with injection-moulded steel plate (zinc plated)
Cellular silicone
Polyethylene terephthalate PET
Copper, with silver surface and tarnish protection
Copper alloy CuSn6 (DIN ISO 2076) with silver surface and tarnish
protection
Brass
Steel zinc plated
Polybutylene terephthalate PBT + 30 % glass fibre (does not contain free
halogens)
Power hybrids

Substrate

Wire bonds
Copper, Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3), Copper.
Nickel metallization and gold finish is applied to the copper surface.
Aluminium alloy

Chips and
T-Sensor
Silicon (Si) with aluminium metallization on the upper and silver
metallization on the underside

Chip sinter layer
Silver (Ag)

Coating
Silicone Gel
Tab. 10-1 SKiM – Bill of materials
38
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
Note: SEMIKRON products are not subject to the electrical and electronic equipment law (ElektroG)>
®
Nevertheless, SEMIKRON still produces the product family SKiM in accordance with §5 of the
ElektroG (prohibited substances) as well as article 4 of the directive 2002/95/EC of the European
parliament (RoHS) on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and
electronic equipment. The ElektroG is the German legal equivalent of the European directive.
11 Packing Specifications
11.1 ESD COVER
Against electrostatic discharge (ESD) while transport, the SKiM is protected by an ESD cover. The
ESD Cover is shown in Fig. 12-1.
ESD COVER
Fig. 11-1 SKiM with ESD Cover
39
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
11.2 Packing Boxes
Standard packing boxes for SKiM modules:
Fig. 11-2 Cardboard box with SKiM in transparent ESD tray, dimensions: 580 x 360 x 110 mm³ (l x w x h)
Quantities per package SKiM 63
SKiM 93
Weight per package
≤ 14 kg
Bill of materials
Boxes:
Trays:
16 pcs
8 pcs
Paper (card board)
ASK-PET/56 (not electrically chargeable)
11.3 Marking of Packing Boxes
All SKiM packing boxes contain a sticker label.
This label is placed on the packing box as shown in Fig. 11-2:
Fig. 11-2: Location of label on SKiM packing boxes
40
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
The label contains the following items (see Fig. 11-3)
1
SKiM 306GD12T4
2
4
5
23630020
3
6
7
Fig. 11-3 Label of SKiM packing boxes
1
2
SEMIKRON Logo
“Dat. Cd:”
3
4
5
6
7
“Menge:”
SKiM Type Designation
“Au.-Nr :”
“Id.-Nr:”
ESD sign
Date code – 5 digits: YYMML (L=Lot of same type per week)
Suffix “R” stands for “RoHS conform”
Quantity of SKiM modules inside the box – also as bar code
Order confirmation number / Item number on order confirmation
SEMIKRON part number – also as bar code
SKiM IGBT modules are sensitive to electrostatic discharges. Always
ensure the environment is ESD proof before removing the ESD
packaging and handling the modules.
Bar code according to
 Standard: ECC 200
 Format:
19/9
41
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
12 Type Designation System
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
SKiM
40
6
GD
06
6
HD
1SKiM: Product name
2Nominal chip current IC,nom /10
3 Housing size
6
9
=
=
SKiM 63
SKiM 93
4 Circuit specifications (examples)
GB
GAL
GAR
GD
=
=
=
=
IGBT half bridge
IGBT low side chopper
IGBT high side chopper
3 ~ IGBT inverter, “six pack”
5 Voltage class
06
12
17
=
=
=
600 V
1200 V
1700 V
6 IGBT chip technology
6
T4
E4
=
=
=
Trench IGBT 3 (600 V and 1200 V)
Trench IGBT 4 (1200 V) Low Loss
Trench IGBT 4 (1200 V) Medium Power
7 Appendix (optional)
HD
=
v1, v2,… =
42
CAL HD Diode
Exclusive, customised special version
© by SEMIKRON
SKiM® - Technical Explanations
13 Figure Captions in the Datasheets
Fig. 1
Collector current IC as a function of the collector- emitter voltage VCE (typical output
characteristics) for Tj = 25 °C and Tj = 125 °C, Parameter: Gate-emitter voltage VGE;
Values at terminal level, inclusive RCC´ + EE´
Fig. 2
Maximum rated continuous DC collector current IC as a function of the case temperature
Tcase, terminal current Icmax = 600 A @ TTerminal = 100 °C
Fig. 3
Typical turn-on and turn-off energy dissipation Eon and Eoff of an IGBT element and turn-off
energy dissipation Err of a freewheeling diode as a function of the continuous collector
current IC for inductive load
Fig. 4
Typical turn-on and turn-off energy dissipation Eon and Eoff of an IGBT element and turn-off
energy dissipation Err of a freewheeling diode as a function of the gate series resistance
RG for inductive load
Fig. 5
Typical transfer characteristic: continuous collector current IC as a function of the gateemitter voltage VGE; Values at terminal level, inclusive RCC´ + EE´
Fig. 6
Typical gate charge characteristic: gate-emitter voltage VGE as a function of the gate
charge QG
Fig. 7
Typical IGBT switching times tdon, tr , tdoff and tf as a function of the continuous collector
current IC for inductive load and fixed gate series resistance RG for Tj = 125 °C
Fig. 8
Typical IGBT switching times tdon, tr , tdoff and tf as a function of the gate series resistance
RG for inductive load and fixed collector current IC for Tj = 125 °C
Fig. 9
Transient thermal impedance Zth(j-c) of the IGBT element and the diode element as single
pulse expired following an abrupt change in power dissipation
Fig. 10
Typical forward characteristics of the inverse diode (typical and maximum values) for T j =
25 °C and Tj = 125 °C
Fig. 11
Typical peak reverse recovery current IRRM of the inverse diode as a function of the fall rate
diF/dt of the forward current with corresponding gate series resistance RG of the IGBT
during turn-on
Fig. 12
Typical recovery charge Qrr of the inverse diode as a function of the fall rate diF/dt of the
forward current (Parameters: forward current IF and gate series resistance RG of the IGBT
during turn-on)
14 Disclaimer
SEMIKRON reserves the right to make changes herein without further notice to improve reliability,
function or design. Information furnished in this document is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no representation or warranty is given and no liability is assumed with respect to the
accuracy or use of such information. SEMIKRON does not assume any liability arising out of the
application or use of any product or circuit described herein. Furthermore, this technical information
may not be considered as an assurance of component characteristics. No warranty or guarantee
expressed or implied is made regarding delivery, performance or suitability. This document
supersedes and replaces all information previously supplied and may be superseded by updates
without further notice.
SEMIKRON products are not authorized for use in life support appliances and systems without
express written approval by SEMIKRON.
43
© by SEMIKRON