MOSFET can be used at higher switching frequencies, but it has a lower voltage rating. BJT can be used at higher voltages, but it has a slow switching frequency.

Now, let us focus on the main advantages of an IGBT over other semiconductors.

This is the first basic requirement of a VFD. If the gate is opened and closed slowly, a slow frequency is obtained, while a fast frequency is obtained if the gate is opened and closed quickly. The switching rate of the IGBT can be controlled depending on the desired output. The IGBT, acting as a switch, can create pulsating waveforms known as pulse width modulation (PWM) waveforms at a rapid pace.

VFD is used to provide variations in voltage and frequency to control the motor speed.

Let us understand step by step why an IGBT is used in VFD. But, it is important to know that the highest level of advantages are offered in an IGBT. Why is IGBT used in VFD?Ĭoming to the main topic, it must be confusing for you because each type of transistor has its separate characteristics. It is capable of handling large collector-emitter currents with virtually zero gate current drive. That is why you can see it in its name too it is a combination of both FET (IG) and BJT (BT). It has the gate function of FET and the low saturation voltage/output characteristics of a BJT. In this way, an IGBT behaves like a switch on when the gate is open and flowing current and off when it is closed. When voltage is removed from the gate, it closes and blocks the current to flow between the collector and emitter. When voltage is applied to the gate, it opens and allows the current to flow between the collector and emitter. The standard transistor has three terminals – gate, collector, and emitter. IGBT is a more advanced type of transistor.

Basically, the family of transistors consists of three main types – BJT (Bipolar Junction Transistor), FET (Field Effect Transistor), and IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor). In this post, we will learn the role of IGBT in VFD. We all know how semiconductors play an important role in fast processing. VFD has many components inside it and semiconductors are extensively used in its design. This is because variable speed is required in almost all applications. As it is used to vary the speed of the motor, it is applicable in many processes. The variable frequency drive (VFD) is a very important equipment in industrial automation.

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