GaN Systems, a global leader in GaN (gallium nitride) power semiconductors, announced at APEC 2023 a new GaN-based 11 kW/800 V On-Board Charger (OBC) reference design that delivers 36% higher power density and up to 15% lower Bill of Materials (BOM) cost compared to silicon carbide (SiC) transistors.
Utilizing GaN transistors in an 800 V OBC is a revolutionary innovation that sets this 11 kW/800 V solution apart from competitors. Delivering remarkable power density and a lower BOM cost, the OBC combines a three-level flying capacitor topology for a bridgeless totem-pole PFC structure and dual active bridge in the AC/DC and DC/DC, respectively. The GaN transistors, in the three-level topology with superior switching performance, reduce the transistor voltage stress to half and allow the economical 650 V GaN to be used in this and many other 800 V applications.
Key features of the OBC design
- 36% higher power density compared to silicon carbide
- AC/DC stage peak efficiency >99%, DC/DC stage peak efficiency>98.5%
- Smaller total semiconductor power loss
- Minimized gate ringing, lower noise and ringing during switching transitions
- Improved thermal performance by employing an IMS interface
GaN power semiconductors increase the efficiency of the OBC by reducing switching losses and power dissipation during operation. This improved efficiency reduces power losses during EV charging, making the OBC significantly more energy-efficient and cost-effective. For instance, the solution’s higher efficiency reduces the complexity and cost of the cooling system design. The compact and highly efficient design helps reduce the overall size and weight of the OBC, freeing up space and weight that can be allocated to other areas of the EV design.
“The GaN-powered 800 V on-board charger reference design is a major advance that will accelerate GaN adoption in the automotive sector,” said Jim Witham, CEO of GaN Systems. “Our new cutting-edge design delivers extraordinary gains in efficiency, power density, cost, thermals, and CO2 footprint reduction to deliver a game-changing solution for our automotive customers.”
Click here to learn more about everything PE's coverage on APEC 2023
