WE-AGDT: Highest efficiency transformer proves itself in Formula E
Waldenburg (Germany), August 6, 2021 – Würth Elektronik has been a technology partner of the Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler team since the beginning of Formula E. Now, with the WE-AGDT transformer and the RD001 reference design, an important part of the power inverter gate driver system in the innovative Audi MGU05 electric powertrain of the Audi e-tron FE07 Formula E race car has been co-designed. Launched last December, the WE-AGDT transformer and power supply solution developed by Würth Elektronik for the demanding gate driving of SiC MOSFETs was inspired by the technology partnership with the Formula E team. The solution is proving itself on the race tracks for the first time this season. WE-AGDT has already received AEC-Q200 qualification; other automotive certifications such as PPAP level 3 and IATF-16949 qualifications are underway.
"We wanted to provide an optimized isolated power supply solution that delivers the optimal gate drive voltages for silicon carbide MOSFETs and IGBTs, such as those used in electric vehicle powertrains. With the WE-AGDT, we have achieved a solution that is smaller, lighter, more efficient and more powerful than comparable power modules on the market," says Eleazar Falco, Applications Engineer and Product Management at Würth Elektronik eiSos.
The innovative WE-AGDT (Auxiliary Gate Drive Transformer) is a compact transformer in an EP7 package that features a wide input voltage range of 9 to 36 V and a high saturation current of 4.5 A, as well as very low leakage inductance and, at 6.8 pF, also very low capacitance between the windings.
Wide range of applications for the race-proven component
"The gate drive transformer is a critical part of the electric drive system in the vehicle of the Formula E team we support, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler," says Emil Nierges, Product Manager Power Isolated, Product Marketing and Development at Würth Elektronik eiSos. "This innovation, inspired by racing, has now successfully become a standard Würth Elektronik component after a few laps on the track. There are numerous applications in which these transformers can be used. These include, for example, charging stations for e-mobility, inverters used in the conversion of renewable energies such as solar or wind power, and industrial motors that drive production lines in factories."
WE-AGDT can be ordered in various designs from stock -- including as a free sample. Würth Elektronik's reference design for a compact, galvanically isolated DC/DC converter for SiC MOSFET gate drivers is available at www.we-online.com/RD001.
