PM10RSH120 Intelligent Power Module – A Comprehensive Guide

PM10RSH120 Overview

The PM10RSH120 from Powerex is an Intelligent Power Module (IPM) designed for three-phase inverter applications with an integrated brake function. Operating at 1200 volts and 10 amperes, the PM10RSH120 combines power semiconductor devices, free-wheel diodes, gate drive circuitry, and advanced protection logic in a compact and isolated package. This integration not only simplifies the design of inverter systems but also improves overall system efficiency and reliability.

Engineers value the PM10RSH120 for its ability to manage switching frequencies up to 20 kHz while providing comprehensive fault protection. With isolation rated at 2500 VRMS, the module ensures electrical safety in demanding industrial environments. Whether used in UPS systems, servo drives, or renewable energy applications, the PM10RSH120 delivers consistent performance and long service life.

PM10RSH120 Key Features

• Three-phase IGBT inverter output with built-in brake circuit.

• Rated for 1200 V collector-emitter voltage and 10 A continuous current.

• Supports 20 A peak collector current for short-term demands.

• Integrated gate drive circuits for efficient operation.

• Built-in protection: short-circuit, over-current, over-temperature, under-voltage.

• High isolation voltage: 2500 VRMS.

• Light and compact module with a typical weight of 100 g.

• PWM input frequency range up to 20 kHz.

• Thermal resistance as low as 2.0 °C/W for inverter IGBTs.

The PM10RSH120 integrates the power stage and intelligence into one module, reducing design complexity and ensuring consistent performance in diverse applications.

PM10RSH120 Absolute Maximum Ratings

The following table summarizes key ratings of the PM10RSH120:

• Collector-emitter voltage (VCES): 1200 V

• Continuous collector current: 10 A

• Peak collector current: 20 A

• Supply voltage (applied P-N): 900 V

• Surge supply voltage: 1000 V

• Isolation voltage: 2500 VRMS

• Junction temperature: -20 to 150 °C

• Case operating temperature: -20 to 100 °C

• Storage temperature: -40 to 125 °C

These values highlight the robustness of the PM10RSH120, making it suitable for both normal and surge conditions.

PM10RSH120 Electrical & Thermal Characteristics

The PM10RSH120 exhibits excellent switching performance and thermal reliability. At 10 A, its collector-emitter saturation voltage typically ranges from 2.3 V to 3.3 V. The free-wheel diode forward voltage is in the range of 2.5 V to 3.5 V, providing efficient current recovery in inverter applications.

Short-circuit trip levels are typically around 41 A, while over-current trip thresholds range between 15 A and 27 A. The integrated over-temperature protection trips at 100–120 °C, with automatic reset around 90 °C. Under-voltage lockout engages at about 12 V, ensuring safe operation of the gate drivers.

From a thermal standpoint, the PM10RSH120 maintains a junction-to-case resistance of only 2.0 °C/W for IGBTs and 5.5 °C/W for diodes. The case-to-fin resistance with thermal grease applied is an impressive 0.044 °C/W, which ensures efficient heat transfer.

Figures in the datasheet show the typical saturation voltage curves, switching times versus collector current, and transient thermal impedance. These highlight the strong thermal management capabilities of the PM10RSH120, ensuring reliable operation under sustained load conditions.

PM10RSH120 Applications

The PM10RSH120 is widely applied across industrial and commercial sectors:

• Industrial Inverters – delivering reliable three-phase power conversion.

• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) – ensuring stable operation during power fluctuations.

• Motion and Servo Control – enabling accurate control in robotics and automation.

• Power Supplies – providing fault-tolerant performance in demanding environments.

• Renewable Energy Systems – supporting solar inverters and wind energy conversion.

Because the PM10RSH120 includes a brake IGBT section, it is especially effective in servo drive systems and other dynamic load environments where regenerative braking is required.

PM10RSH120 Advantages and Considerations

Advantages of PM10RSH120:

• Integrated design reduces external circuitry.

• Comprehensive built-in protection minimizes external components.

• Compact footprint simplifies system layout.

• Excellent thermal management ensures long-term reliability.

Considerations:

• Rated for 10 A, so higher current applications may require alternative modules.

• Operating frequency limited to 20 kHz, which may not suit ultra-high-frequency designs.

These balanced insights allow engineers to assess whether the PM10RSH120 is the ideal solution for their application.

PM10RSH120 Equivalent and Alternatives

The PM10RSH120 is part of Powerex’s Intellimod™ family. For engineers seeking higher current capability while maintaining the same voltage class, two suitable alternatives are:

• PM15RSH120 – rated at 15 A, designed for mid-power inverter applications.

• PM20RSH120 – rated at 20 A, offering additional current margin for heavy-duty systems.

Below is a comparison table of the three modules: PM10RSH120, PM15RSH120, and PM20RSH120.

Selection Notes:

• The PM10RSH120 is best suited for light-duty systems such as small UPS units or compact servo drives.

• The PM15RSH120 provides a balance of higher current capability for mid-range industrial inverters.

• The PM20RSH120 is recommended for demanding industrial drives and renewable energy inverters where higher current handling is required.

Conclusion

The PM10RSH120 stands as a reliable and efficient Intelligent Power Module designed for three-phase inverters with brake functionality. With integrated gate drives, comprehensive protection logic, and excellent thermal performance, the PM10RSH120 reduces design complexity while improving system safety. Its versatility makes it a valuable solution for UPS systems, industrial motor drives, servo applications, and renewable energy inverters.

By offering stable performance at 1200 V and 10 A, the PM10RSH120 ensures long service life, reduced maintenance costs, and dependable operation across a wide range of applications.