Proprietary International Rectifier Modules Slated for Assembly in Newly Opened Wales Facility

SWANSEA, Wales - November 1999 - International Rectifier today inaugurated its new Wales assembly facility, where power semiconductors and related components are assembled into proprietary Motor Control modules that improve product performance and energy efficiency in a range of fast-growing industrial, appliance, and automotive applications.

Some of the proprietary power module solutions available from IR^TM include the following:

Adaptable Planar Module: IR incorporates input rectifiers; a short-circuit rated IGBT inverter; an optional brake IGBT and diode, current shunts, a temperature sensor, bus capacitors with inrush limiting circuits; gate drivers; short-circuit, over-temperature, earth-fault and over-voltage protections; and an auxiliary power supply with isolated outputs into its proprietary Adaptable Planar Module. The key to smaller and simpler AC drives, this module offers best-in-class size and volume. Because this module is a pre-tested, functional sub-assembly, part count, risk and cost to customer are dramatically reduced. The module's simplified drive assembly allows customers to reduce overall system cost, as well as improve EMI performance due to its compact layout and streamlined power flow.

Integrated Starter Alternator Power Module: IR has developed a high-efficiency power module for the new 42V vehicle electrical system that has been designed to revolutionize the automotive industry. This IR proprietary module incorporates a half-bridge configuration with individual FET-matching gate resistors. It offers an 850 Amp peak current rating in starter mode with temperature sensing on the substrate. The complete module has a typical internal inductance of less than 11nH. The module is designed to be compliant with laminated bus bar construction. The size of this complete 3-phase inverter is a mere 250mm X 62mm.

Electric Power Steering Module: IR's Electric Power Steering (EPS) Module offers a cost-effective solution with a high-efficiency transfer of electrical power and a thermal construction that meets stringent automotive qualification requirements. Interconnections are typically reduced by 40% with this fully tested power stage. Installation time is reduced. And the thermally balanced substrate allows for reduced power cycling stress. The EPS modules from IR feature up to 130 amps park cycle operation at a 125°C base plate temperature, power conversion density of >10 Watts/cm3 in a typical design and integrated gate drive circuitry and protection.

Solid-State Motor Starter Modules: The integrated solid-state relay assembly for advanced power distribution systems is a fully protected, virtually indestructible switch that combines the switching and protective function in one unit. This product configuration results in improved space utilization and reduced cost by eliminating unnecessary fuses and circuit breakers. It also simplifies wiring schemes and increases the vehicle system reliability. Features include a high- or low-side switch (10-120A), over-current and over-temperature protection, a recirculation diode and avalanche capability for highly inductive loads, diagnostic feedback, direct interface to logic signals, low quiescent current (<50µA) and an optional serial interface with node address.