Test bench for active ageing of power modules reproducing constraints close to automotive driving conditions

Power modules designed for hybrid/electric traction should fulfil lean manufacturing considerations. Robustness study of IGBT modules on the basis of a representative driving cycle is mandatory for safety reasons, cost and lifetime estimation. So power modules can not be oversized and harsh stresses applied conduct to review ageing tests. The power modules for motor drives are subject to multiple failure modes which are due to many damaging factors. Generally we perform the damage evaluation of power modules by thermal and active accelerated power cycling tests. In order to take into account of new automotive domain requirements, this paper proposes a tester applying low voltage electrothermal stresses on power module close to the automotive urban driving conditions.