New ULIS Power Module Technology Targets Growing Electricity Demand
Researchers at the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed a new energy-saving technology for worldwide rising power needs which results from industrial growth and AI data center operation. The Ultra-Low Inductance Smart (ULIS) power module is a system which uses silicon carbide technology to deliver advanced electrical conversion and control functions with lower production expenses.
Core Features of the ULIS Power Module
The ULIS module operates as a power electronics solution which tackles major power electronics problems. The system provides the following key benefits:
- Increased Power Density: The system delivers five times more power according to its design specifications.
- High-Performance Ratings: The module operates at 1200 volts and 400 amperes, which makes it suitable for high-power applications.
- Reduced Parasitic Inductance: The system achieves a seven to ninefold reduction in parasitic inductance, which stands as the power conversion loss that decreases energy output.
- Cost-Effective Manufacturing: A new design and materials allow production costs to decrease from thousands of dollars to hundreds of dollars.
The module operates through wireless functions which allow users to control its functions from a distance while it connects to different systems through its modular design.
A New Approach to Design and Manufacturing
The ULIS performance enhancement results from the complete redesign of its physical structure. The system replaces traditional stacked box structures with an octagonal flat design. The "pancake-like" configuration of the system enables it to pack more components into a compact space, which results in smaller devices that produce less magnetic interference.
ULIS technology replaces conventional module systems which use rigid ceramic bases with a combination of copper and flexible polymer materials named Temprion. The material enables production of thinner and lighter structures which maintain high adaptability through standard machining tools, resulting in substantial cost reductions during manufacturing.
Key Applications and Industry Impact
ULIS technology will produce extensive benefits across multiple crucial industries:
- Data Centers and Power Grids: The system enhances efficiency which helps power conversion and reduces power loss while decreasing maintenance expenditure.
- Aviation and Heavy Equipment: The compact, lightweight, and reliable design enables more powerful converters, which is critical for next-generation aircraft like eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing).
- Microreactors and Fusion Energy: The module demonstrates durability and ultra-low inductance properties which make it ideal for upcoming energy systems which need pulsed power components.
- Military Operations: The ULIS system functions as a military solution which operates in extreme conditions through its built-in health monitoring and failure prediction systems.
Future-Proofed and Ready for Licensing
ULIS modules currently operate with silicon carbide semiconductors but their design allows future upgrades to gallium nitride and gallium oxide materials. Licensing for the technology has begun and it will provide essential support to meet increasing worldwide energy needs.
