Mitsubishi Electric to market next-generation SiC inverter for railcars

ntttttttttttt

Mitsubishi Electric Corp said Tuesday that it will launch a next-generation traction inverter system incorporating large-capacity silicon carbide (SiC) power modules. Railcar systems fitted with the traction inverter will achieve 30% energy savings, require less maintenance and emit less noise than conventional silicon (Si) power modules. The first commercial application, following a series of ongoing field tests starting January 2012, is expected to be in railcars of Tokyo Metro Co Ltd.

n

Compared to Si-based power modules used in current traction inverters, the newly developed SiC power module offers a number of important improvements. In addition to 30% reduced power loss in the traction inverter, inverter size and weight have been reduced by 40% each.

n

The new inverter system also enhances the performance of regenerative brakes, which will lead to producing more regenerative electricity. Incorporating two 1,700V and 1,200A SiC chips, the new inverter’s high-frequency switching capability also achieves 40% less power loss in the motor. Furthermore, the new inverter emits up to 6dB less noise compared to conventional models.

n

Railways are garnering renewed attention as a means of reduced-carbon transportation. Continued improvements in railcar equipment performance, including Mitsubishi Electric’s new inverter system, are expected to lower the environmental impact of railways even further.

tttttttntttntttntttttttttttt© Business Wirenttttttttt