Analysing the Effects of Switching, Conduction and Thermal Losses on IGBT Performance in Boost DC–DC Converters for Photovoltaic Systems

This study examines the thermal and electrical characteristics of insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) in boost direct current (DC)–DC converters used in photovoltaic systems with respect to how switching and conduction losses vary under different operating conditions. The behaviour of IKWH70N65WR6 IGBT was measured (PLECS software) with load resistances of 5, 10 and 20 Ω at switching frequencies of 1–100 kHz. Important results are as follows: conduction losses prevail at low frequencies and load currents and switching losses increase towards high frequencies. Thermal stress is the highest at mid-range frequencies (50–60 kHz) and IGBT junction temperatures peak to 123 °C. Reduced load resistance leads to increased power consumption and total losses, and the value of load matching must be optimised. This study offers critical data regarding the choice and optimisation of IGBTs to improve efficiency and reliability within the uses of renewable energies.