Semiconductors for High-Power Electronics Applications
Hitachi Energy, formerly ABB Semiconductors, focuses on the development and production of advanced power semiconductors used in power electronics applications. These high-power semiconductors play a vital role in controlling and converting electrical energy with maximum efficiency across a wide range of industries.
The power electronics journey of Hitachi Energy began in Switzerland over a century ago with the production of mercury-arc rectifiers. Today, the company offers one of the most diverse semiconductor portfolios in the world, including thyristors, diodes, GTOs, IGCTs, MOSFETs, and IGBTs: all manufactured at its facilities in Lenzburg, Switzerland, and Prague, Czech Republic. The research and development teams continue to push the boundaries of innovation, leveraging both silicon (Si) and silicon carbide (SiC) technology to create the next generation of high-power semiconductors.
Applications of Hitachi Power Semiconductors
These advanced high-power semiconductors provide precise control and superior performance for:
- HVDC transmission systems and FACTS equipment
- Renewable energy converters (wind, solar, hydro)
- Traction systems for high-speed trains and metros
- Industrial drives and automation
- Pumps, fans, and hoists used in heavy-duty applications
We Are a Premium Supplier of Hitachi Energy Power Semiconductors
At Astrolkwx, we supply the full range of Hitachi Energy high-power semiconductors and act as a trusted partner for technical consultation, product selection, and system integration. Our portfolio includes:
- Diodes for current rectification and signal modulation
- Thyristors and GTOs for controlled power switching
- IGBTs and IGCTs for high-speed energy conversion
- MOSFETs for high-efficiency switching applications
Each device is engineered to meet the demands of modern power electronics, providing exceptional control, performance, and longevity in high-stress environments.
Understanding the Differences
- Thyristors offer the highest voltage and current capabilities but limited switching speed.
- GTOs improve controllability with turn-off capability but have higher losses.
- IGCTs combine high efficiency with robust performance for medium-frequency applications.
- IGBTs are the preferred choice for high-speed switching in industrial and renewable systems.
- MOSFETs deliver the fastest switching performance but are best suited for lower voltage ranges.
By structuring semiconductors in this way, engineers and purchasers can quickly identify the most suitable component for their voltage, current, and control requirements.
Comparison of High-Power Semiconductor Technologies
| Semiconductor Type | Switching Capability | Max Voltage / Current | Switching Frequency | Efficiency / Losses | Typical Applications | Turn-Off Control |
| Thyristor (SCR) | Semi-controlled | Up to 8.5 kV / >5 kA | Low (<1 kHz) | Low conduction losses | HVDC systems, motor drives, industrial power control | External circuit (cannot self-turn-off) |
| GTO (Gate Turn-Off Thyristor) | Fully controlled | Up to 6 kV / >4 kA | Moderate (1–2 kHz) | Higher switching losses | Traction drives, industrial converters, FACTS | Gate-controlled turn-off |
| IGCT (Integrated Gate-Commutated Thyristor) | Fully controlled | Up to 6.5 kV / 5 kA | Medium (up to 4 kHz) | Lower than GTO, very efficient | High-power drives, wind converters, HVDC | Integrated gate drive unit |
| IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) | Fully controlled | 1.2–6.5 kV / 600–3600 A | High (up to 20 kHz) | Excellent switching efficiency | Motor drives, renewable energy, e-mobility | Gate-controlled, fast switching |
| MOSFET (Power) | Fully controlled | Up to 900 V / 100–500 A | Very high (>100 kHz) | Lowest losses, highest efficiency | Low/medium power converters, inverters, switching amplifiers | Voltage-controlled |
| Diode | Passive (uncontrolled) | Up to 8.5 kV / >5 kA | N/A | Very low conduction loss | Rectifiers, freewheeling, voltage protection | N/A |
Schedule a Technical Online Meeting with Peter
At Astrolkwx, we supply advanced Hitachi high-power semiconductors that meet the highest standards of quality, performance, and reliability. Whether you are designing renewable energy converters, industrial drives, or high-voltage transmission systems, our semiconductor portfolio provides the precision and efficiency your applications demand. Schedule an online meeting today with our technical experts to learn how our products can optimize your next-generation power electronics project.
