Characterization of IGCTs for series connected operation

Abstract

This paper describes the series connection of integrated gate commutated thyristors (IGCTs) using RC-snubbers. An experimental setup with a power rating of 6 kV, 4 kA is used to analyze the dynamic and static behavior of the series connected IGCTs in detail. The mechanism of thermal stabilization of series connected IGCTs is discussed. It is shown that a good voltage balancing can be achieved by small RC-snubbers due to the fast switching IGCTs.