Novel Thermal Management Solutions for Advanced Power Converter Applications

Advancements in electronic warfare driven by sophisticated sensors and weapons are pushing shipboard power distribution systems to higher voltage, more power dense solutions. Reduced cost and increased flexibility necessitate solutions that are rapidly scalable and are characterized by longer life and lower maintenance. These objectives are in conflict, as increased power density reduces life and increases maintenance due to thermal stress on the components. PCKA is proposing a novel thermal management solution to address these challenges in order to achieve the Navy’s long-term objectives. PCKA successfully demonstrated the novel cooling approach in the Phase I Base analytically, with electrical performance improvements quantified. The primary objective of the Phase II will be to build, test, and demonstrate the proposed concept in hardware. Design iterations will be made in order to reduce cost, complexity, and risk with a focus on transition of the technology to Navy applications. An optimized package at the completion of the Phase II will ensure a successful transition to numerous hardware applications in both the military and commercial space in Phase III.