ABB 5SHY3545L0012 IGCT – High-power press-pack device for medium-voltage converters and grid applications

The ABB 5SHY3545L0012 is an Integrated Gate-Commutated Thyristor (IGCT) in a press-pack format, engineered for heavy-duty power conversion. From my experience, this model is chosen when you need high blocking voltage, strong surge capability, and dependable turn-off performance in the 4.5 kV class with a 3.5 kA current class device. It pairs with ABB gate units designed for the same frame size, giving you fast switching with low conduction losses—ideal for medium-voltage drives, STATCOM/SVC systems, and large industrial converters where uptime really matters.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty: 365 days
• Delivery time: Typically 1 week if in stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment terms: 50% advance payment; full payment before delivery
• Express options: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• 4.5 kV-class blocking capability – Suited for medium-voltage converters and grid-interfaced equipment.
• High current class (3.5 kA) – Handles heavy load cycles and high short-term surge currents.
• Press-pack reliability – No wire bonds; uniform pressure path for robust thermal and cycling performance.
• Fast, clean turn-off – Enables higher di/dt and lower switching losses when used with the matching ABB gate unit.
• Low conduction losses – Typically favorable efficiency in high-power, lower-switching-frequency applications.
• Proven in demanding environments – Often seen in traction, marine, metals, and utility-grade reactive power systems.
• Service-friendly – Press-pack format simplifies replacement without soldering the main device.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

This IGCT is typically used in:

• Medium-voltage drives for pumps, compressors, fans, and rolling mills
• Reactive power compensation: STATCOM and SVC systems
• Traction and marine propulsion converters
• Wind and industrial power converters where high reliability is crucial
• High-power rectifiers and choppers in metals, mining, and utilities

One thing I appreciate is how consistently the 3545-class IGCTs hold up in thermal cycling. A customer in a steel plant told us they swapped in this part during a planned outage and saw a noticeable temperature margin improvement at the same load point, which gave them more headroom in summer peaks.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability under stress – Press-pack stack-up tolerates thermal and mechanical cycling better than many plastic modules.
• Compatibility – Works with ABB gate units designed for the corresponding IGCT frame, simplifying upgrades and spares strategy.
• Operational efficiency – Low conduction losses help trim system losses at higher power levels, which in many cases reduces cooling demand.
• Total cost of ownership – Longer service intervals and straightforward replacement can cut downtime costs.
• Technical support – We can assist with selection, clamping guidance, and gate-unit pairing so commissioning goes smoothly.

Installation & Maintenance

• Cabinet and environment – Mount in a clean, dry enclosure with adequate ventilation. Respect creepage/clearance for MV systems.
• Heatsinking – Use flat, clean heatsink surfaces; apply the recommended thermal interface material sparingly and evenly.
• Clamping force – Apply the manufacturer-specified force using a calibrated press or torque system; uneven force can reduce lifetime.
• Wiring – Keep gate lead length minimal and use the matched ABB gate unit; follow the recommended snubber/network where applicable.
• Checks during service – Periodically inspect clamping hardware, heatsink cleanliness, and gate-unit health (capacitors, connectors, and, if fitted, auxiliary fans).
• Spare strategy – Store devices in their protective packaging; avoid shocks and contamination of contact surfaces.

Quality & Certifications

• Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems
• RoHS compliant component
• Component-level CE/UL marking is typically not applicable; conformity is ensured at the end-equipment level
• Seller warranty: 365 days as stated in our order terms

Note: Exact electrical ratings and outline dimensions for ABB 5SHY3545L0012 should be verified against the official ABB datasheet for your specific build standard and gate-unit pairing.