High temperature anode power supply parts and packaging reliability and survivability

The power processing unit (PPU) of a solar electrical propulsion system for in-space propulsion is developed as a high power, temperature, and efficiency, modular, high specific impulse, and non-isolated converter topology unit for future deep space and manned missions. Overall, the High Temperature Boost (HTB) PPU has 87% improvement in PPU specific power/mass and 38% improvement in-space solar electric system mass saving. The objectives of this Phase 1 study are to develop a High Temperature Anode Power Supply 10kW Prototype module with new extreme environment component and packaging technology and determine the component reliability and packaging survivability for at least 50 cycles in the temperature range of −55°C to +160°C. After cycling, the functionality is tested at room temperature and elevated temperature (base plate at 100°C). Selection of high temperature components and advanced packaging techniques enables operation at a higher base plate temperature of 100°C. SiC MOSFETS and diodes were chosen as well as high temperature capacitors designed to operate at 1kV and 2μF at 150°C.