5 February 2015

Transphorm customer Yaskawa starts mass production of PV inverter

Transphorm Inc of Goleta, near Santa Barbara, CA, USA, which designs and provides gallium nitride (GaN)-based power conversion devices and modules, says that Japan's Yaskawa Electric Corp is launching mass production of what it claims is the smallest power conditioner in its class - and the first to use a GaN power module. Based on Transphorm's EZ-GaN IP-protected platform, Yaskawa's Enewell-SOL V1 series 4.5kW indoor PV inverter will be distributed in Japan, with a targeted annual production of 34,000 systems.

The new 98%+ peak efficiency GaN-based power conditioner operates at three times higher frequencies than silicon-based modules, it is reckoned. Due to its smaller magnetics and heat-sinks, the unit is half the size of competing solutions, it is claimed. Also, its efficiency allows fan-free, low-noise operation. Powered by Transphorm, the Yaskawa PV inverter's TPD3215M module utilizes what is said to be the only qualified, high-voltage (600V) GaN-based solution on the market. Transphorm says that this level of mass production for the rapidly growing residential PV inverter segment is one more step toward establishing GaN as the new power conversion platform.

The firm adds that, over the last several years, GaN has emerged as a leading technology enabler for the next wave of compact, energy-efficient power conversion systems – ranging from ultra-small adapters, high-power-density PCs, server and telecom power supplies, to highly efficient PV inverters and motion control systems.

Transphorm says that its efficient, compact and easy-to-embed solutions can simplify the design and manufacturing of electrical systems and devices, including power supplies and adapters, PV inverters for solar panels, and motor drives and power conversion for electric vehicles. The firm's access to high-scale foundry manufacturing, through its relationship with Fujitsu, enables it to meet growing demand from global customers needing GaN power conversion products.

See related items:

Fujitsu begins mass production of Transphorm's GaN power devices

Tags: Transphorm GaN-on-Si GaN HEMT

Visit: www.transphormusa.com

Visit: www.yaskawa.co.jp/en