b'12 Partner News Summer 2022AcademicAn initiative to embed industry skills requirements into the university curriculum: a power electronic switch in perspective (SiC-MOSFET), the device leading to a brighter future The world is embarking on a mission toRecent advancements in power electronicsconverter design to an end, when high combat environmental concerns such asare paving the way to a more eco-friendlyfrequencies are required. global warming and rapid urbanisation, andand sustainable future. The importance a race to find realistic alternatives for aof improved power devices is especiallyThe desire for increased efficiency and depleting supply of fossil fuels has arisen.useful within the growing EV industry. Theimproved high-frequency performance is fundamental electronic device used withingrowing. Consequently, the development of Consequently, different solutions suchelectric car charging and voltage converterthe silicon-carbide (SiC) MOSFET, a voltage-as the Electrical Vehicle (EV) marketcircuits are the semiconductor switches: thecontrolled switching device and a fundamental have seen major growth and innovation,Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effectcomponent, promises this desired increase allowing society to function without fossilTransistor (MOSFET) and Insulated Gatein efficiency, reliability and power density, fuel-powered vehicles. Despite the manyBipolar Transistors (IGBT).seeking to antiquate the traditional silicon (Si) advantages, EV vehicles still lack certainMOSFET and may compete with the IGBT. freedoms available to t he public with aThe MOSFET available is manufactured traditional fossil-fuelled vehicle. Notably,from Silicon (Si) which over time showsThis initiative was an idea shared between the insufficient energy density of batteriesrobust operation in various applicationsthe Department of Electronic and Electrical can lead to needing to charge the EV moreand ruggedness against spikes and heat.Engineering at the University of Sheffield frequently, plus ongoing concerns aroundHowever, the improvements on the converter(Dr Mahmoud I. Masoud) and Sheffield durability, sub-optimal efficiency (leakagetopology side are capped by the Si switchesHallam University (Dr Walid Issa)who was currents) and hazards to public safety whenability and speed, so the switching lossesawarded funds from the Driving Electric dealing with high voltage cables.and thermal resistances brought theRevolutions UK challenge.'