Onsemi unveils EliteSiC PIMs: faster, lighter EV charging
09/01/2024
Onsemi has unveiled nine new EliteSiC Power Integrated Modules (PIMs) designed to enable bidirectional charging capabilities for DC ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers and energy storage systems (ESS).
These silicon carbide-based solutions promise substantial improvements, including higher efficiency, simpler cooling mechanisms, and a significant reduction in size and weight by up to 40% and 52%, respectively, compared to traditional silicon-based IGBT solutions.
The introduction of these PIMs addresses the pressing need for faster and more accessible EV charging, as highlighted in J.D. Power's 2023 Electric Vehicle Consideration Study, where nearly half of U.S. consumers cited concerns about charging access and speed. The move towards bidirectional charging not only facilitates quicker EV charging but also addresses the strain on electrical grids by allowing electric vehicles to serve as energy storage systems.
With the ability to charge EV batteries up to 80% in just 15 minutes, the EliteSiC PIMs provide a key building block for the rapid deployment of reliable, efficient, and scalable networks of DC fast chargers. Recognising the growing demand for electricity, bidirectional charging supports vehicle-to-grid implementation, allowing EVs not only to charge but also to contribute power back to the grid or home when needed.
Onsemi's portfolio of PIMs offers flexibility for designers, allowing them to choose the right module for power conversion stages in their DC fast charging or energy storage system applications. The use of die from the same wafer ensures consistency and reliability, eliminating the need for discrete from different suppliers that may lead to varying performance results.
Key features of the EliteSiC PIMs include Gen3 M3S SiC MOSFET technology for minimal switching losses and efficiency, support for various topologies, scalable output power from 25 kW to 100 kW, and industry-standard F1 and F2 packages with optional pre-applied Thermal Interface Material (TIM) and press-fit pins. The modules prioritise optimal thermal management to prevent system failure due to overheating, while full SiC modules contribute to energy conservation by minimising power losses, resulting in both cost and energy savings.
Onsemi aims to expedite the design cycle by providing advanced piecewise linear electrical circuit simulation (PLECS) models through their Self-Service PLECS model Generator, coupled with application simulation using the Elite Power Simulator.
The introduction of these PIMs addresses the pressing need for faster and more accessible EV charging, as highlighted in J.D. Power's 2023 Electric Vehicle Consideration Study, where nearly half of U.S. consumers cited concerns about charging access and speed. The move towards bidirectional charging not only facilitates quicker EV charging but also addresses the strain on electrical grids by allowing electric vehicles to serve as energy storage systems.
With the ability to charge EV batteries up to 80% in just 15 minutes, the EliteSiC PIMs provide a key building block for the rapid deployment of reliable, efficient, and scalable networks of DC fast chargers. Recognising the growing demand for electricity, bidirectional charging supports vehicle-to-grid implementation, allowing EVs not only to charge but also to contribute power back to the grid or home when needed.
Onsemi's portfolio of PIMs offers flexibility for designers, allowing them to choose the right module for power conversion stages in their DC fast charging or energy storage system applications. The use of die from the same wafer ensures consistency and reliability, eliminating the need for discrete from different suppliers that may lead to varying performance results.
Key features of the EliteSiC PIMs include Gen3 M3S SiC MOSFET technology for minimal switching losses and efficiency, support for various topologies, scalable output power from 25 kW to 100 kW, and industry-standard F1 and F2 packages with optional pre-applied Thermal Interface Material (TIM) and press-fit pins. The modules prioritise optimal thermal management to prevent system failure due to overheating, while full SiC modules contribute to energy conservation by minimising power losses, resulting in both cost and energy savings.
Onsemi aims to expedite the design cycle by providing advanced piecewise linear electrical circuit simulation (PLECS) models through their Self-Service PLECS model Generator, coupled with application simulation using the Elite Power Simulator.