Light-triggered thyristors for electric power systems (Phase 2). Interim report
The development of light triggered thyristors suitable for HVDC applications is discussed. Three devices were constructed with 5, 4, and 2 amplifying stages, respectively, with several sub-variations. Of these the 4 amplifying stage GE3 type D device and all variations (A, B, and C) of the two stage GE4 design proved sufficiently reliable for the replacement of the normal, electrically triggered 2.6 kV HVDC cell. These devices proved the usefulness of the n/sup +/ alignment band, a feature design to ensure even turn-on, and the interrupted n/sup +/ metal, a feature to enhance rapid spreading away from the initial turn-on line. Important device characteristics other than a typical 160A/..mu..sec or better di/dt at 105/sup 0/C and 1800 volts include the following: (1) typical forward breakdown voltage of 2900 volts; (2) typical reverse breakdown voltage of 3100 volts; (3) dv/dt capability of 2000V/..mu..sec to 2200 volts; (4) forward drop at 105/sup 0/C, 1000 amperes of 1.3 volts and, finally, (5) a typical photo threshold of 10 to 20 nanojoules of incident photo energy. Surge capability and other device ratings are similar to the original electrically fired device. It is also significant that both the fabrication and packaging of these devices took place in a production facility and that the light triggered thyristor could be fabricated with the same process, apart from the extra sensitivity etch, as the regular electrically triggered device. Further, the package is a relatively simple one which requires only a few cents worth of extra parts.
- Research Organization:
- General Electric Co., Schenectady, NY (USA). Corporate Research and Development Dept.
- OSTI ID:
- 5354320
- Report Number(s):
- EPRI-EL-1349
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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