Converter Lifetime Modeling Based on Online Rainflow Counting Algorithm

This paper presents a method based on online rainflow counting algorithm to estimate the converter lifetime. Firstly, a fast and simple electro-thermal model of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) considering the aging of thermal parameters is established with average power method. Secondly, online lifetime consumption calculation model is built by applying online rainflow counting algorithm and by employing the Lesit model. Finally, compared with the model in PLECS (a versatile simulation software for circuit and control), simulation results verify the feasibility and effectiveness of proposed modeling method. Furthermore, differences in the lifetime calculation of each power device at different fatigue state are discussed. The simulation results in this paper clearly show the real-time life output of the IGBT in the converter under the influence of the electro-thermal parameters.