Power Electronic Modules

A power electronic module or power module is an assembly containing several power components, mostly power semiconductor devices, properly internally interconnected to perform a power conversion function. It is an integrated building block for the realization of a power converter with a reduced number of external components required. Control electronics such as gate drivers, sensing, and protection functions may be included inside the power module package. In this case, the term intelligent power module is commonly used. From the electric standpoint, the power module reduces parasitic elements in the interconnection of the power semiconductor devices due to the tight physical integration. From the thermal standpoint, the power module usually has a thermally conductive baseplate that can be bolted to a heat sink or a cold plate to remove the loss heat generated as a result of power converter operation. From the mechanical standpoint, it provides a robust mechanical package for the power components inside. In conclusion, a power module is an electro-thermo-mechanical device optimized for power converter operation. Using a power module may simplify the design of a power converter because the power module design provides a robust mechanical structure and guarantees proper operation from an electric and thermal point of view as long as the module datasheet specifications and guidelines are followed. Power modules are typically used at higher power levels, where a discrete component implementation would require paralleling of several power semiconductor devices.