How to Specify an IGBT Size

"An Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) is a key component in what makes up a VFD (Variable Frequency Drive). If you break down a VFD, one easy way to analyze it is to think of it in three main parts: the bridge converter, DC link, and what we will talk about today, the inverter. An IGBT is the inverter element in a VFD, pulsing voltage faster than we can even blink.

IGBTs have come a long way since they were first developed in the 1980’s. The IGBTs of today are much more advanced than their predecessors, which were slow at switching current on and off and often had problems overheating when passing a high current. With each new generation, IGBTs have continued to improve. No longer plagued by slow speeds, IGBTs have become highly reliable devices that can handle high voltage devices and are able to switch in less than a nanosecond (that’s a billionth of a second)!"

"To understand an IGBT’s role in a VFD, it is important to identify how an IGBT works on a smaller scale. As defined by being a transistor, an IGBT is a semiconductor with three terminals which work as a switch for moving electrical current. Just as the word “gate” suggests, when voltage is applied to the gate, it opens or “turns on” and creates a path for current to flow between the layers. If no voltage is applied to the gate, or if the voltage is not high enough, the gate remains closed and there will be no flow of electricity. In this way, an IGBT behaves like a switch; on when the gate is open and flowing current and off when it is closed. "

"In this way, the IGBT acts as the switch used to create Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM). An IGBT will switch the current on and off so rapidly that less voltage will be channeled to the motor, helping to create the PWM wave. For example, although the input voltage may in reality be 650V, the motor perceives it as more like 480V by using PWM (shown in diagrams below). This PWM wave is key to a VFDs operation because it is the variable voltage and frequency created by the PWM wave that will allow a VFD to control the speed of the motor. Therefore, without the IGBT switching the current on and off so rapidly a PWM wave—and the speed control that comes with it— could not be created."

https://vfds.com/blog/switching-it-up-igbts

FUJI IGBT MODULES APPLICATION MANUAL ....

https://www.fujielectric.com/products/semiconductor/model/igbt/application/box/doc/pdf/REH984e/REH984e.pdf

Too many TLAs:

https://www.acronymfinder.com/IGBT.html

https://www.acronymfinder.com/PWM.html

https://www.acronymfinder.com/AMP.html

One might say that if you are not familiar with the vocabulary (vernacular of the industry) then you probably are not going to be in a position to help either.

https://www.acronymfinder.com/VFD.html

I recommend getting LTspice from Linear Technology

https://www.analog.com/en/design-center/design-tools-and-calculators/ltspice-simulator.html#

There are hundreds of dedicated PWM controller (PMICs) go to your local Digikey or Mouser and do a search for PWM controller. Some software may still be needed to control the working of the controller, but, don't attempt to do the low level control of the switch.

https://www.digikey.com/en/products/result?s=N4IgTCBcDaIAoHUCyACAxgewHYBcBOGANoQKZ4gC6AvkA

https://www.acronymfinder.com/PMIC.html