Japan-based Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Silicon Austria Labs (SAL), a European research center for electronics and software-based systems research, have completed a joint proof of concept of AKM’s eFuse technology in high-voltage applications using silicon carbide-based power devices.
The growing use of power devices based on silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) in EVs and other high-voltage applications makes it necessary to replace mechanical fuses—which have been used with conventional silicon-based power converters—to immediately shut down the system when detecting an overcurrent to protect devices and avoid costly maintenance.
The eFuse system provides the overcurrent and short circuit protection required for next-generation high-voltage EV systems with SiC- and GaN-based power devices, such as on-board chargers. AKM is producing the CZ39, a coreless current sensor with a response time of 100 ns. Its fast-response capability and high accuracy allow for precise detection of overcurrent and quick system shutdown. The sensor can also efficiently regulate the current in connected subsystems, reducing the overall part count.
“We expect that the eFuse technology will contribute to smaller and lighter EV onboard chargers,” said Toshinori Takatsuka, General Manager of AKM’s current sensor business.
“By utilizing the latest AKM current sensing technologies, we can improve the reaction time of eFuses and the protection of wide-bandgap power converters,” said Thomas Langbauer, Team Lead within the Power Electronics Division at SAL.
Source: Asahi Kasei
