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diotec (Diotec Semiconductor AG)

Diotec Semiconductor AG

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Jun 20, 2025

Optimizing PFC Performance in AC to DC Chargers with Diotec’s SiC Schottky Diodes

Active power factor correction (PFC) is becoming the standard design in switch mode power supplies (SMPS), driven by stringent regulations on harmonic distortion in AC line currents. An improved power factor reduces reactive power penalties and enhances overall system efficiency and grid stability.

In PFC boost converter topologies, especially those operating in continuous conduction mode (CCM), SiC Schottky diodes outperform silicon diodes due to their:

- Zero reverse recovery charge (Qrr): drastically reduces switching losses

- Low junction capacitance, which supports high switching frequencies

- High temperature operation, enabling compact, thermally resilient designs

 

Compared to silicon ultra-fast soft recovery diodes, SiC significantly reduces reverse recovery energy (E_(rr)), minimizing losses and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

One reliable device in this category is the Diotec SIT20C120, which offers:

·        20 A average forward current

·        1200 V reverse voltage

·        IFSM = 180 A surge capability

·        TO-220AC package for easy integration

Ideal for CCM PFC stages, the SIT20C120 enables higher efficiency, lower thermal stress, and better EMI performance, which is critical for today’s high-performance SMPS designs.