The Applications & differences between IGBTs & MOSFETs in BLDC Motor Driver

Key Differences

1. Operating Voltage and Current

• MOSFETs are typically used for lower voltage applications, with a maximum rating around 600V. They excel in applications requiring high switching frequencies and are suitable for low to medium power ranges.

• IGBTs, on the other hand, can handle much higher voltages, often exceeding 1200V and reaching up to 1700V or more. They are ideal for high-power applications, making them suitable for industrial drives and electric vehicles.

2. Switching Frequency

• MOSFETs can operate efficiently at high switching frequencies (up to several hundred kHz), which is advantageous for applications like switch-mode power supplies and high-speed motor control.

• IGBTs are generally limited to lower switching frequencies (typically below 20 kHz) due to higher switching losses. This makes them less suitable for applications requiring rapid switching.

3. Conduction Losses

• MOSFETs exhibit lower conduction losses at lower voltages, but as the voltage increases, their conduction losses can become significant due to higher R_DS(on) values.

• IGBTs have a lower conduction voltage drop at high currents, making them more efficient in high-power applications where conduction losses are critical.

4. Thermal Performance

• MOSFETs generally have better thermal performance at high frequencies due to their faster switching capabilities. However, they can suffer from increased heat generation at higher voltages.

• IGBTs are designed to handle high thermal loads effectively and can operate in environments with significant temperature variations without compromising performance.

5. Drive Requirements

• MOSFETs require simpler gate drive circuits due to their voltage-driven nature and high input impedance.

• IGBTs, while also voltage-driven, may require more complex gate drive circuits to manage their slower turn-off times and mitigate issues like tail current.

6. Applications

• MOSFETs are preferred in applications such as low-voltage DC-DC converters, battery management systems, and low-power motor drives where high frequency is essential.

• IGBTs are commonly used in applications such as electric vehicle motor drives, industrial motor controllers(Evaporative Air Cooler, Water Pump, Industrial  Fan, Air Conditioner Compressor...), and renewable energy systems (like inverters for solar panels) where high voltage and current handling is necessary.  For driving air coolers/fans and industrial water pumps, IGBTs are the preferred option, as they can handle higher voltages and currents while performing excellently in high-power applications. Although MOSFETs excel in certain low-power, high-frequency applications, IGBTs offer better performance and reliability for these industrial devices. Lumsyn Electronic provides high-performance FOC (Field-Oriented Control) motor drivers/controllers for BLDC (Brushless DC) and PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) that utilize IGBT technology. The company has become a leading manufacturer of PMSM/BLDC motor drivers in China, with products that have gained a good reputation in the markets of Europe, America, Middle East, China, particularly in applications such as air coolers, fans, water pumps...