Innovative Power Electronic Switch for Naval Applications in Extreme Temperatures
Navy SBIR FY2015.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.1
Topic No.: N151-065
Topic Title: Innovative Power Electronic Switch for Naval Applications in Extreme Temperatures
Proposal No.: N151-065-0384
Firm: MTECH LABORATORIES LLC
831 Rte. 67, Bldg. 45C
P.O. Box 227
Ballston Spa, New York 12020-0227
Contact: Michael Hennessy
Phone: (518) 885-6436
Web Site: www.mtechlabs.com
Abstract: In this program, MTECH will develop a half-bridge building block optimized for extreme-temperature operation for various naval applications, especially those involving superconductivity or requiring high power density. After a Phase I feasibility and optimization study, a number of Phase II prototypes will be designed, fabricated and tested. The devices will target the Navy's objectives: power levels of 200-300kW, at least 6MW/m^3 power density, >200kHz frequency, >98% efficiency, and an operating temperature range of -225�C to 150�C, with an emphasis on cryogenic operation for superconducting applications. In this work, MTECH will adapt its extreme-temperature electronic devices for gas or conduction cooling, as is required by the Navy, and will characterize newly emerging devices.
Benefits: The proposed work seeks to develop devices optimized for extreme environments and having a very wide operating temperature, high power density, high efficiency, and high output power. Power density in particular is critical to the Navy, as reduced size allows for higher payload capacity and reduced weight for savings in fuel consumption. Apart from naval applications, the technology can be used in space applications, utility-scale power, renewable energy applications, and applications in the Army, Air Force, and NASA.

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