Power is a critical functional block in any product. A deeper knowledge of the latest technologies helps identify the components that meet your application’s specific requirements.
This article explores the essential factors in selecting power components that maximise lifetime value. From material innovations like wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductors to robust design and environmental resilience, these considerations are essential for reducing field failures and ensuring sustained performance in demanding environments.
Building foundations
The materials used in power components play a pivotal role in determining their performance and longevity. Traditional silicon has long been the standard, but advancements in wide bandgap semiconductor materials — Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) — have redefined the possibilities for power component design.
- Higher voltage handling, enabling components to operate significantly higher voltages than silicon, increasing efficiency and minimising losses.
- Thermal efficiency, good WBG designs produce less heat during operation, reducing thermal stress on components and extending their lifespan.
- Faster switching speeds, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing power losses.
From wide bandgap semiconductors to robust design and environmental resilience, there are essential considerations when it comes to maximising lifetime valueThese capabilities make WBG semiconductors a game-changer for high-performance applications, particularly in automotive, industrial automation, and renewable energy industries.
The role of robust design
Longevity is not just a function of materials — it also depends on how components are designed. Robust designs address the challenges of heat management, electrical stresses, and mechanical resilience, ensuring consistent performance over time.
- Thermal management: Heat is a major cause of component failure. Efficient thermal management solutions, like heat sinks, thermal pads, and advanced cooling mechanisms, are essential. Designs with good thermal management can maintain performance even under heavy loads, reducing the risk of overheating.
- Advanced packaging: Innovative packaging techniques, such as chip-scale packaging (CSP) and enhanced encapsulation, reduce size and parasitics.
Environmental resilience — the key to long-term reliability
Power components often face harsh operating environments, including extreme temperatures, high humidity, and mechanical shock. Environmental resilience ensures components can withstand these challenges without compromising performance or reliability.
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With the ongoing shift to renewable energy and the electrification of transport and industry, the demand for higher power and greater energy efficiency in electronics is increasing. Wide bandgap technologies including SiC and GaN bring many advantages.
WBG OVERVIEW- Temperature cycling and extremes: Components must operate reliably across wide temperature ranges. This is particularly important in automotive and aerospace applications, where extreme temperature variations are common.
- Moisture resistance: High humidity and condensation can lead to corrosion and failure. Proper encapsulation and coatings are vital for preventing moisture ingress and ensuring the longevity of components in outdoor and industrial environments.
- Mechanical shock and vibration: In automotive and industrial automation applications, components must endure constant vibrations and shocks. Reinforced construction and secure mounting methods help mitigate mechanical stresses, extending component lifespans.
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Spotlight on key products
To illustrate these principles, let’s examine power components from industry-leading manufacturers that embody the characteristics of longevity, reliability, and resilience:
- STMicroelectronics’ SiC MOSFETs: As a SiC leader, these wide bandgap devices are designed for high-efficiency, high-voltage applications, such as automotive and industrial power systems. With excellent thermal performance and high switching speeds, STMicroelectronics’ SiC MOSFETs reduce thermal stress and improve overall system reliability.
- Navitas GaNFast Power ICs: Navitas leads the way in GaN technology with its GaNFast Power ICs, which integrate GaN transistors and drive circuitry in a single package. These components deliver ultra-high efficiency and fast switching, making them ideal for applications like fast chargers and renewable energy systems.
- Microchip’s SiC Power MOSFETs & Modules: Microchip offers SiC-based solutions optimised for high-temperature environments and harsh industrial settings. These modules combine robustness with efficiency, delivering long-term reliability in demanding applications like aerospace and renewable energy.
- Rohm’s Power ICs: Rohm’s family of AEC-Q101 qualified SiC MOSFETs provide the high reliability needed by automotive manufacturers for on-board chargers and DC/DC converters.
The value of lifetime reliability
When designing systems with long-term reliability, selecting power components for lifetime value is essential. A well-chosen component does more than meet initial performance requirements — it minimises failures, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the system's overall lifespan.
Key considerations for evaluation include:
- Material selection: Opt for advanced materials like SiC and GaN to ensure efficiency and thermal stability.
- Environmental suitability: Ensure components are rated for the operating environment’s specific challenges, such as temperature extremes and mechanical vibration.
Partnering with trusted suppliers
Navigating the complexities of power component selection is easier with a trusted partner. Avnet Silica works with leading manufacturers such as STMicroelectronics, onsemi, Nexperia, Navitas, Microchip, ROHM and many more to offer a comprehensive portfolio of reliable power components. Our deep understanding of customer challenges and access to cutting-edge technologies make us your ideal partner for optimising product design and performance.
Conclusion
The selection of power components is a critical decision with long-term implications for system reliability, performance, and cost efficiency. Designers can create systems that deliver maximum lifetime value by focusing on high-quality materials, robust designs, and environmental resilience.
Whether it’s the thermal efficiency of STMicroelectronics’ SiC MOSFETs, the speed and integration of Navitas GaNFast Power ICs, the ruggedness of Microchip’s SiC modules, or the environmental durability of Rohm’s Power ICs, the right components ensure fewer failures, lower maintenance costs, and sustained performance.
By partnering with suppliers like Avnet Silica, engineers can access the tools and expertise needed to design reliable systems that stand the test of time. With the right choices, power components become key to operational success and innovation.
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