Calculating resistor for IGBT and choosing flyback diode

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating a current-limiting resistor for the gate of the IGBT model STGP6NC60HD and selecting an appropriate flyback diode for a motor application. It is established that a series gate resistor can help manage the capacitive load of the IGBT gate, improving switching performance and curtailing current spikes. For the flyback diode, it is crucial to ensure it can handle the transient load current and withstand a reverse voltage of 18V. Participants emphasized the importance of understanding these components for effective circuit design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of IGBT operation and characteristics
  • Knowledge of gate resistor functions in FETs
  • Familiarity with flyback diode specifications
  • Basic principles of inductive load behavior
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  • Research "IGBT gate resistor selection guidelines"
  • Learn about "flyback diode ratings and specifications"
  • Study "transient response in inductive circuits"
  • Explore "TLP251 driver characteristics and applications"
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Electrical engineers, circuit designers, and hobbyists working with IGBTs and inductive loads who seek to optimize their circuit designs and component selections.

nothing909
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Homework Statement


On the circuit I've drawn up, how do I calculate a current limiting resistor for the gate of the IGBT?

The IGBT being used is a stgp6nc60hd.

Also, how would I go about choosing a flyback diode for the motor?
 

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nothing909 said:

Homework Statement


On the circuit I've drawn up, how do I calculate a current limiting resistor for the gate of the IGBT?

The IGBT being used is a stgp6nc60hd.

Also, how would I go about choosing a flyback diode for the motor?
I don't use IGBTs, but since it's a FET input, why does it need a current-limiting resistor? I've seen resistors to ground to turn them off faster, but I'm not sure I've seen current limiting resistors into their gates. Of course, I could be wrong.

For the flyback diode, you need to figure out the max reverse voltage and the max forward current. The max forward current can be calculated from the parasitic capacitance (or an explicit capacitance that you add) and the winding inductance.
 
berkeman said:
I don't use IGBTs, but since it's a FET input, why does it need a current-limiting resistor? I've seen resistors to ground to turn them off faster, but I'm not sure I've seen current limiting resistors into their gates. Of course, I could be wrong.
There are some application notes that show how to choose a series gate resistor to limit current and improve switching. From what I can tell it has to do with the IGBT gate looking like a small capacitive load and taking advantage of the driving resistance to "tune" the response as well as curtail current spikes. Took me all of ten seconds to spot them with a google search ("IGBT gate resistor").

But the OP should show some effort here and do the search and some reading.
 
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gneill said:
There are some application notes that show how to choose a series gate resistor to limit current and improve switching. From what I can tell it has to do with the IGBT gate looking like a small capacitive load and taking advantage of the driving resistance to "tune" the response as well as curtail current spikes. Took me all of ten seconds to spot them with a google search ("IGBT gate resistor").
Thanks, I love learning new things here. :smile:
 
nothing909 said:

Homework Statement


On the circuit I've drawn up, how do I calculate a current limiting resistor for the gate of the IGBT?

The IGBT being used is a stgp6nc60hd.

Also, how would I go about choosing a flyback diode for the motor?
The IGBT will be saturated and the inductive nature of the motor load will limit transient current surges so I don't see the point of a series gate resistor to limit load surges. Maybe to protect the TLP251 driver though as the gate capacitance can be substantial.
As for the flyback diode, just make sure it can handle the transient load current when the IGBT shuts off, and of course the 18V reverse voltage.
 

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