NEWS - WIND ENERGY
Save Energy , Increase Power and Efficiency : High- Performance PPA by BASF for Next-Generation IGBT Semi-Conductors
• Tailored Ultramid ® Advanced N3U41 G6 enhances robustness , long-term performance and reliability of IGBTs
• Semikron Danfoss uses BASF PPA as housing of its Semitrans 10 IGBT for inverters in photovoltaic and wind energy systems
• Showcased at BASF booth , Fakuma 2024 : hall B4 , booth 4303
For next-generation power electronics , BASF has developed a polyphthalamide ( PPA ) that is especially suited for manufacturing housings of IGBT ( insulated-gate bipolar transistor ) semi-conductors . Ultramid ® Advanced N3U41 G6 addresses the growing demand for high-performance , reliable electronic components for e . g ., electric vehicles , high-speed trains , smart manufacturing and the generation of renewable energy . Semikron Danfoss , a global technology leader in power electronics , now uses the BASF PPA as housing in its Semitrans 10 IGBT which can be installed in inverters of photovoltaic and wind energy systems . Due to its outstanding chemical resistance and dimensional stability , the Ultramid ® Advanced N grade enhances the robustness , long-term performance and reliability of these IGBTs , thus meeting growing needs for energy saving , higher power density and increased efficiency . IGBTs enable efficient switching and control of electrical circuits in power electronics .
“ IGBTs are a key element of modern electronics , particularly in the renewable energy sector ,” explains Jörn Grossmann from research and predevelopment at Semikron Danfoss . “ IGBTs must operate at higher temperatures while maintaining longterm stability and performance . The Semitrans 10 has set a new benchmark for performance and efficiency benefiting from the unique properties of BASF ’ s PPA . We chose this material because of its extraordinary electrical isolation even in harsh environments and because of its excellent robustness against short-term temperature peaks in the assembly process .” The combination of high-performance material and smart design allows for faster switching speeds , lower conduction losses , and improved thermal management , thus addressing key needs in power electronics .
In today ’ s IGBTs , BASF ’ s proven Ultradur ® ( PBT : polybutylene terephthalate ) is widely used . The new PPA is designed to meet the stringent requirements of next- generation IGBTs for rapidly evolving power electronics . They demand materials that can withstand higher temperatures , provide sustained electrical insulation , and maintain dimensional stability under challenging environmental conditions like humidity , dust and dirt . The lasersensitive Ultramid ® Advanced N3U41G6 with non- halogenated flame retardant combines high thermal stability with low water uptake and excellent electrical properties . It is characterized by a high CTI ( Comparative Tracking Index ) of 600 ( acc . to IEC 60112 ): This supports miniaturization of IGBTs by lower creepage and better insulation than materials so far used for power switches . The UL-certified grade shows an excellent electrical RTI ( Relative Temperature Index ) value of 150 ° C . power electronics at BASF . “ Backed by our customer-focused technical support in part development , we expect this innovative material to significantly contribute to the advancement of power electronics , supporting the global transition to renewable energies .” For manufacturing of IGBTs , the BASF PPA is compatible with potting materials used to assemble the semiconductors with metal pins and clamps after injection molding .
Volatile Renewables : ANDRITZ Enhances Brazilian Grid Stability with Synchronous Condensers
New regulatory requirements and a cleaner , more diversified energy mix pose new challenges for grid operators tasked with maintaining a stable power supply .
Synchronous condensers have positioned themselves as a reliable , proven , cost-effective and smart solution for these issues , and are bolstering the grid resilience which is negatively impacted by wind and solar power plants worldwide .
International technology group ANDRITZ has signed two contracts to supply new synchronous condenser systems to Brazil . Both projects include the supply of a 330 MVAr synchronous condenser . The installation of these systems is an important step towards balancing and stabilizing the Brazilian power system , improving its efficiency , and ensuring a more reliable power supply for the future . One will support the transmission lines between Bahia and Minas Gerais , and the other will support the Ceará Crateús region .
“ We are immensely proud of the trust our clients have placed in us ,” said Sérgio Gomes , Sales Director of ANDRITZ Hydropower in Brazil . “ These contracts underscore our strong presence in the market and our ability to deliver cutting-edge , sustainable solutions . Our manufacturing hub in Araraquara , São Paulo , plays a central role in this success , producing high-quality synchronous condensers that meet the demanding requirements of modern power grids .”
ANDRITZ ’ s scope of supply includes one 330 MVAr synchronous condenser for each project , complete with mechanical and electrical auxiliaries , automation , protection , a step-up transformer , field assembly services , and commissioning for both systems . As Brazil navigates its energy transition , ANDRITZ is committed to delivering innovative solutions that contribute to the development of a cleaner , more resilient power grid .
“ BASF ’ s PPA compound is globally available and ready for sampling ”, says Jochen Seubert , senior application expert for
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