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A master's thesis from Aalborg University
Book cover


Effect of Vibration on Expected Life of IGBT Modules: A study on the reliability of IGBT modules under vibrational loads.

Translated title

Effect of Vibration on Expected Life of IGBT Modules

Author

Term

4. term

Publication year

2024

Submitted on

Pages

73

Abstract

Vi undersøger, hvordan mekaniske vibrationer påvirker pålidelighed og levetid for Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT)-moduler, som bruges i elbiler og industrielektronik. IGBT-moduler er effektelektronik, der styrer store strømme. Vi vurderer, hvordan forskellige vibrationsfrekvenser og -amplituder påvirker den forventede levetid, med fokus på revnedannelser i materialer og bondtråde (meget små metaltråde, der forbinder chippen). Med finit element-analyse (FEA), en computerbaseret simulationsmetode, identificerer vi områder med koncentreret mekanisk spænding, som kan føre til brud. Resultaterne viser en tydelig sammenhæng mellem fejlrate og vibrationsprofil, især ved frekvenser tæt på bondtrådenes resonansfrekvens, hvor svingningerne forstærkes og materialetræthed accelereres. Vi giver anbefalinger til at øge den mekaniske stabilitet, så IGBT-moduler bliver mere holdbare og pålidelige i miljøer med kraftige vibrationer. Studiet giver nyttig viden for producenter og designere af effektelektronik.

We examine how mechanical vibrations affect the reliability and lifespan of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) modules used in electric vehicles and industrial electronics. IGBT modules are power electronics that control high currents. We evaluate how different vibration frequencies and amplitudes influence expected life, focusing on crack formation in materials and bond wires (tiny metal wires that connect the chip). Using finite element analysis (FEA), a computer simulation method, we identify areas where mechanical stress concentrates and can lead to failure. We find a strong link between failure rates and vibration profiles, particularly at frequencies near the bond-wire resonant frequency, where vibrations are amplified and fatigue accelerates. We provide practical recommendations to improve mechanical stability, enhancing the durability and reliability of IGBT modules in vibration-heavy environments. This work offers useful insights for power electronics manufacturers and designers.

[This summary has been rewritten with the help of AI based on the project's original abstract]