On-line junction temperature identification of converter power devices

Abstract Traction converters often fail or age due to long operation hours, complex conditions, and frequent braking, mainly caused by overheating or temperature fluctuations. Monitoring the temperature at the junction of power device is crucial for system reliability. To achieve this, the electric-heat coupling models of IGBT are studied. Models for IGBT’s switching and conduction processes were created using its data sheet, yielding a power loss model linked to junction temperature. A Foster thermal network model for IGBT was then established, deriving the equation for temperature change when losses act as heat sources. Combining these models, an electric-heat coupling model was built on the SIMULINK platform, applied to predict and simulate junction temperature in a two-level inverter, generating a temperature-time image. Finally, an experimental test platform for a two-level SVPWM-modulated inverter was set up, using an infrared sensor to measure IGBT’s steady-state junction temperature. This was compared with simulation results to verify the model’s accuracy.