Understanding the Classification Methods for Power Modules
In design projects, engineers often encounter issues related to power modules, leading to the selection of products with either too low or too high ratings, which may pose risks or waste funds. To facilitate engineers in choosing suitable power brands for their projects, the following classifications are provided for reference.
Power supplies can be classified into the following levels based on their intended use and environment:
1. Aerospace Grade (AA, Interpoint, etc.), which is further divided into several levels based on radiation resistance.
2. Aviation Grade (AA, Interpoint, VPT, GAIA, VICOR, etc., including domestic brands like 43rd Institute, 24th Institute, etc.)
3. Military Grade (Interpoint, VPT, GAIA, VICOR, etc., including domestic brands like 43rd Institute, 24th Institute, etc.)
4. Quasi-Military Grade (GAIA, VICOR, etc., along with many other brands), internationally referred to as “COST.” Most companies that boast military-grade products fall into this category.
5. International Industrial Grade (the most recognized brands include Lambda, COSEL, C&D, Datel, ERICSSON, POWER-ONE, etc., along with some high-end power manufacturers from Taiwan like DELTA, PDUKE, CINCON, etc.; many domestic manufacturers, mainly located in Beijing, Shenzhen, etc., with notable performers like XINLEI NENG and JINSHENGYANG) typically operate in a temperature range of -40 to 85 degrees Celsius.
6. Industrial Grade (low-end market, predominantly domestic products) operates in a temperature range of -20 to 55 degrees Celsius.
7. Civil (Commercial) Grade (low-end market, predominantly IC products) operates in a temperature range of 0 to 55 degrees Celsius.
8. Consumer Grade (low-end market, predominantly IC products) operates in a temperature range of 0 to 55 degrees Celsius.
Another classification method
Generally, the classification of power modules is defined by each company, and there is no consensus.
1. Aerospace
Generally, it features a ceramic substrate, fully sealed metal, and thick-film hybrid integration technology.
Representative standards are based on MIL-PRF-38534, with inspection methods outlined in MIL-STD-883, corresponding to domestic standards GJB2438 and GJB548.
Typical parameters: radiation resistance, shell temperature -55 to 125 degrees Celsius.
2. Oil Industry
Generally utilizes SiC devices and high-temperature bonding technology.
Typical parameters: maximum operating temperature can reach 250 degrees.
This level is generally considered aerospace-grade, with basic requirements consistent with aerospace products, except for radiation resistance. Typically operates at shell temperatures of -55 to 105 degrees under full load, derating to 0 load at 125 degrees.
The brands are mainly the 39 suppliers certified by the U.S. Department of Defense and domestic manufacturers like the 43rd Institute, 771st Institute, and the emerging 24th Institute; GAIA and VICOR can be used in helicopters or non-military key focus models.
This level is quite chaotic, with VICOR being the most successful.
Generally requires shell temperatures of -55 to 105 degrees and can employ various technologies.
This level is even more chaotic, and it is strongly recommended not to use Japanese products; Taiwanese brands are not significantly better than domestic products.
POWER-ONE has gradually weakened since its main designer left; Ericsson once created real MTBF data (the same model produced in too large quantities); LAMBDA’s combination of forward and reverse switching methods was once quite popular; Delta’s technology training has made many envious; Synqor and di/dt have sparked a high-efficiency competition for low-voltage high-current.
Most of these are AC/DC products that do not reach temperatures above -20 to 85 degrees.
