Graphite thermal interface sheet improves IGBT module cooling
Built for IGBT module assemblies, GraphiteTIM from Panasonic Industry Europe provides grease-like thermal resistance, stable long-term performance, and simpler installation at the heatsink interface in motion-control power stages.
Lower contact thermal resistance at the module-to-heatsink interface can directly improve thermal margin in inverter stages. GraphiteTIM is an artificial graphite sheet developed as a thermal interface material for power modules, with Panasonic showing the intended stack-up as an IGBT module, GraphiteTIM, and heatsink. High compressibility helps the sheet follow surface unevenness and reduce contact thermal resistance, allowing performance comparable to thermal grease when adequate pressure is applied.
When it comes to power electronics that need to last a long time, reliability is what sets them apart. The GraphiteTIM does not break down even after being heated and cooled many times between temperatures from -40°C to175°C. This makes GraphiteTIM a strong choice for motor and motion-control hardware, where consistent thermal performance and minimal maintenance matter as much as longevity.
Ease of handling is another advantage in both production and service. Because the material is supplied as a sheet rather than a paste, it simplifies inventory control, maintenance, and repair work while reducing assembly effort, as no separate application process is required. Standard sizes cover a range of multiple insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) module housings, and custom shapes are available for modules that fall outside that range.