Semiconductor element thermal monitoring system - uses inbuilt thermocouple which provides signals for thermal control circuit

摘要

A method is used for monitoring the temp. of a semiconductor element such as a thyristor by means of a thermocouple built into the chassis of the element and in good thermal contrast with the element. The signals produced by the thermocouple may be used for controlling the current to the thyristor, or otherwise controlling the temp. of the element. A semiconductor element (1) so mounted in a chassis unit between two metallic contacts (2, 3). In good thermal contact with the element (1) is a thermocouple transducer (8) fed by contact leads and terminals (7, 9) through suitable grooves (2a) in one of the metallic contacts (2). The thermocouple (8) consists of two different metal elements (8a, 8b) welded together and contained in an insulating capsule (10). It is held under pressure against the semiconductor element (1) so that good thermal contact is maintained.