Modular Solid State Power Controller (SSPC) for High Voltage Aerospace Applications

This paper introduces a novel modular Solid State Power Controller (SSPC) designed for high-voltage aerospace applications, addressing the industry's transition from the traditional 270 V standard to higher voltage systems. Each SSPC module is rated at <tex xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">$270 \mathrm{V} / 180 \mathrm{A}$</tex>, and leverages SiC MOSFET technology for enhanced switching speed, efficiency, and reliability. This study details the SSPC's architecture, key electrical components, and thermal management. The modular design enables flexible series and parallel configurations to meet a range of voltage and current demands. Experimental results demonstrate the SSPC's performance with up to four units connected in series and parallel, achieving a total blocking voltage of 1080 V and current carrying capability of 720 A, respectively. A custom-designed test bench generates highcurrent pulses to simulate fault conditions, while thermal management experiments validate continuous operation at rated current. Findings reveal precise synchronization during module switching and enhanced thermal performance through natural convection cooling of individual modules. This modular SSPC design presents a scalable, efficient, and reliable protection device for power distribution in next-generation aerospace systems, effectively addressing the evolving power demands of future aircraft applications.