IGBT stands for Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor, which is a type of power semiconductor device used in AC drives and other power electronics applications. IGBTs are used in AC drives to control the flow of electrical power from the AC power source to the motor.
IGBTs are a type of transistor that combines the high-speed switching capability of a MOSFET with the low on-state resistance of a bipolar transistor. This combination of features makes IGBTs ideal for high-power, high-frequency applications such as AC drives. They can handle high current and voltage levels, and can switch on and off quickly, allowing them to control the flow of electrical power to the motor with high precision.
In an AC drive, IGBTs are used to create a variable frequency and voltage output to the motor by converting the incoming AC power to a DC voltage using a rectifier circuit, and then converting the DC voltage back into an AC output using an inverter circuit. The IGBTs in the inverter circuit switch on and off rapidly to create a series of voltage pulses that mimic an AC waveform with a variable frequency and voltage. By controlling the timing and duration of these voltage pulses, the AC drive can control the speed and torque of the motor.
IGBTs are a key component of modern AC drives, and their high efficiency and reliability have made them the preferred choice for many industrial applications. They offer a high level of control and precision, while also being able to handle the high power levels required for industrial applications.
