Semiconductors for power electronics applications
Hitachi Energy, former ABB Semiconductors, focuses on the development and production of various types of semiconductors used in power electronics applications. Semiconductors play a vital role in controlling and converting electrical energy in the most efficient way.
The power electronics journey of Hitachi Energy began in Switzerland over 100 years ago with the production of mercury-arc rectifiers. Today, the company boasts one of the most diverse semiconductor portfolios, which includes thyristors, diodes, GTOs, IGCTs, MOSFETs, and IGBTs, all manufactured at its facilities in Lenzburg, Switzerland, and Prague, Czech Republic. The research team continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, leveraging silicon (Si) and silicon carbide (SiC) technology to innovate the next generation of power electronics devices.
Their advanced semiconductor technology provides unprecedented control for HVDC transmission systems. The company serves as the heart of traction converters that power high-speed trains, metros, and diesel-electric locomotives. Additionally, pumps, fans, roller tables, hoists, and winches used across various industries rely on their technology, enabling the world to enjoy greener mobility through the next generation of electric vehicles.
Astrolkwx is premium supplier of the following Hitachi Energy ABB semiconductors:
Diodes
Diodes are electronic components that allow current to flow in only one direction. They have two terminals, an anode (positive) and a cathode (negative). Diodes are commonly used for rectification, signal modulation, and protection against reverse current flow.
Thyristors
Thyristors are a type of semiconductor device that can control high-power electrical signals. They are also known as silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs). Thyristors act as switches, allowing current to flow in one direction when triggered by a control signal. They are used in various applications such as motor control, lighting systems, and power supplies.
IGBTs
IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors) are widely used in power electronics due to their ability to handle high voltages and currents. They combine the advantages of MOSFETs and bipolar transistors. IGBTs can switch on and off rapidly while handling large power levels. They are commonly used in motor drives, renewable energy systems, and industrial applications.
MOSFETs
MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors) are a type of field-effect transistor that uses a metal-oxide-semiconductor structure. They are known for their ability to control large currents with low power requirements. MOSFETs are widely used in amplifiers, switching circuits, and integrated circuits due to their fast switching speed and high efficiency.
GTOs
GTOs (Gate Turn-Off Thyristors) are a type of thyristor with an added feature of turn-off capability. They can be triggered on like a thyristor, but they can also be turned off by applying a negative gate pulse. GTOs are commonly used in high-power applications such as traction systems, energy transmission, and industrial drives. Every type of semiconductor plays an essential role in various power electronic systems, enabling efficient control and conversion of electrical energy in a wide range of applications.
