Improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness, tandem diodes are used in power modules for industrial motor drives.

They consist of two 650 V devices connected in series, offering an alternative to conventional 1200 V silicon (Si) freewheeling diodes (FWD) and silicon carbide (SiC) designs. This setup promises lower dynamic loss coefficients and superior reverse recovery behavior, ensuring safe commutation and symmetrical voltage division.

Tandem diode solutions are particularly beneficial in applications requiring high switching frequencies - in the range of 8 kHz up to 16 kHz.

The usage of tandem diodes is a strategic approach to balance performance and cost in the development of motor drive systems with 1200 V IGBT chipset technology.

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Visit the following links for products using tandem diode concepts:

• SixPack
• Rectifier + Inverter + Brake (PIM)