Mitsubishi Electric's LV100 1.2-kV IGBT Module: A Game Changer for Industrial Power Systems

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) has announced the upcoming release of its new LV100-type 1.2-kV IGBT module, set to revolutionize industrial power systems, particularly in the realm of renewable energy. The module, scheduled for sampling beginning February 15, 2025, is equipped with an eighth-generation insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), which minimizes power loss and maximizes output power in inverters and other components of power systems.



The LV100 module's eighth-generation IGBT, featuring original split-dummy-active (SDA) and controlling-carrier plasma-layer (CPL) structures, reduces power loss by approximately 15% in inverters used in solar power-generation systems, storage batteries, and more. This significant reduction in power loss translates to enhanced inverter efficiency, enabling the module to deliver more power to the load for a given input power. For instance, if an inverter with the previous generation module had an efficiency of 95%, the new LV100 module could potentially increase that efficiency to 98.5%. This 3.5% improvement in efficiency can result in substantial energy savings and reduced operating costs over time.

In addition to its power loss reduction, the LV100 module boasts a current rating of 1,800A, which is 1.5 times higher than that of the existing product. This increase in current rating is expected to boost inverter output power, enabling the module to handle larger loads and higher system capacities. To illustrate the expected increase in inverter output power, consider the following calculation:

Inverter output power = Voltage × Current

Assuming a constant voltage of 1.2 kV (1,200 V) for both the existing and new modules, the existing inverter output power would be:

Existing inverter output power = 1,200 V × 1,200 A = 1,440,000 W (or 1.44 MW)

With the new module's current rating of 1,800A, the new inverter output power would be:

New inverter output power = 1,200 V × 1,800 A = 2,160,000 W (or 2.16 MW)

The expected increase in inverter output power due to the module's 1.5x current rating is:

Expected increase in inverter output power = New inverter output power - Existing inverter output power
Expected increase in inverter output power = 2,160,000 W - 1,440,000 W = 720,000 W (or 0.72 MW)

The LV100 module's easy-parallel configuration simplifies large-capacity system designs by allowing for flexible inverter configurations and capacities. This is achieved through an optimized terminal layout that helps to spread and equalize current density, increasing inverter capacity. Additionally, the integration of the structure's insulated and copper-base parts, along with the optimization of the internal electrode structure, increases thermal cycle life and lowers package inductance, enhancing reliability. This makes it easier to design and implement large-capacity power-conversion systems, as the module can accommodate a wide range of capacitances.

In conclusion, Mitsubishi Electric's LV100 1.2-kV IGBT module is poised to significantly impact the industrial power systems landscape, particularly in the realm of renewable energy. With its 15% power loss reduction, enhanced inverter efficiency, increased current rating, and simplified large-capacity system designs, the LV100 module is set to become a game changer for solar power-generation systems, storage batteries, and other applications. As the module is set to be exhibited at major trade shows, including NEPCON JAPAN 2025, industry professionals and investors alike should keep a close eye on this innovative product.