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Testing an IGBT

What is an IGBT?

An insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) is a three-terminal power semiconductor used as a high-efficiency electronic switch.

They are often used in high-voltage, high-current situations with low-power inputs. They are often used in applications like induction cooktops, AC and DC motor drives, and in our P7000 PowerSync™ Series power supply used with our surface treaters.

How to Test an IGBT

Let's learn how to test an IGBT:

1. Check For Shorted IGBT

Using a digital ohmmeter on the diode scale:

  1. Measure resistance between C2/E1 and E2.
  2. Measure resistance between C2/E1 and C1.

If you measure a short (0 ohms) in step 1a. or 1b., the IGBT is not usable.

2. Turn On Q1, Q2

Using a digital ohmmeter on the diode scale:

  1. Touch the + (red) meter lead to G1 and the - (black) to E1.
  2. Touch the + (red) meter lead to G2 and the - (black) to E2.
  3. Measure resistance between C1 and C2/E1. Should read a low resistance (about a diode drop). Reverse meter leads, reading should be the same.
  4. Measure resistance between E2 and C2/E1. Should read a low resistance (about a diode drop). Reverse meter leads, reading should be the same.

3. Turn Off Q1, Q2

Using a ohmmeter on the diode scale:

  1. Touch the + (red) meter lead to E1 and the - (black) to G1.
  2. Touch the + (red) meter lead to E2 and the - (black) to G2.
  3. Measure resistance between C2/E1 (+) and C1 (-). Should read a low resistance (same as in step 2c.). Reverse meter leads. Read infinite resistance.
  4. Measure resistance between C2/E1 (-) and E2 (+). Should read a low resistance (same as in step 2d.). Reverse meter leads. Read infinite resistance.

Note: Some digital ohmmeters do not have enough power to turn on an IGBT. A 9 volt battery may be used instead.

Pillar Tech - Power Supplies

Testing and ensuring that your IGBT is running optimally and correctly is very important. If it happens that your IGBT or equipment has failed and you are in the market for a new power supply for your surface treater, we have options available. You can request a quote here.

Pillar Tech also offers other surface treatment equipment that can be utilized during the treating process of various films. These vary from universal surface treaters to ozone destruction systems.

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