SiC Current Limiting FETs (CLFs) for DC Applications

To address safety issue of DC networks in distribution and generation plants, a specific Current Limiting FET has been design. The fabricated power switch is able to operate in both forward and reverse conduction mode. Short-circuit time to failure has been adjust and a current sensing electrode as been added to ease the monitoring and the drive of this switch. Fabricated devices have been packaged in TO3 metal can, providing good heat conduction and durability. A maximum short circuit energy of 70J/cm2 as been measured for a IN = 6 A VBR = 1800 V rated device, corresponding to a short-circuit time before failure of tCC = 21ms under VDC = 300 V .