Still Choosing Between IGBTs and MOSFETs? Here’s Why IGBTs Win

When it comes to selecting the right power semiconductor for your system, the debate between IGBTs (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors) and MOSFETs (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors) continues to shape critical decisions in industrial maintenance, repair, and equipment upgrades. While both devices have their place, IGBTs remain the backbone of high-voltage, high-current applications — especially in aging infrastructure where reliability matters most.

In this article, we'll explore the differences, clarify when IGBTs outperform MOSFETs, and explain why legacy systems and industrial environments still depend on them today.

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IGBTs vs. MOSFETs: A Quick Overview

MOSFETs are ideal for high-speed switching and low-voltage systems, such as power supplies and consumer electronics.
IGBTs, on the other hand, dominate in industrial power control, where higher voltages and currents are required.

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Why IGBTs Win in Industrial Applications

✅ Designed for High Voltage and High Current

IGBTs are specifically optimized for 600V to 1700V applications, making them ideal for equipment such as:

• Industrial motor drives
  
  
• Electric vehicle inverters
  
  
• Renewable energy converters
  
  
• High-power welding systems
  
  
• Power grid infrastructure
  
  

These environments demand robust switching and efficient power handling — exactly what IGBTs are built for.

✅ More Efficient in High Power Systems

At low voltages, MOSFETs have a lower conduction loss. But once you cross the 400V threshold, the efficiency benefits flip. IGBTs have:

• Lower conduction losses at high voltage
  
  
• Less sensitivity to voltage spikes
  
  
• Better performance with inductive loads
  
  

This makes IGBTs more cost-effective and thermally stable for high-power installations.

✅ Legacy Equipment Compatibility

Many industrial systems built in the 1990s–2010s were designed around IGBT switching characteristics. These systems often:

• Require specific electrical behavior
  
  
• Have rigid thermal envelopes
  
  
• Include IGBT-compatible drivers and heatsinks
  
  

Replacing an IGBT with a MOSFET may cause issues ranging from EMI interference to thermal runaway, or even full redesigns — which are costly and time-consuming. That’s why maintenance teams almost always seek like-for-like IGBT replacements.

 

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IGBTs Are Still Essential — But Increasingly Difficult to Source

Even though IGBTs remain critical in thousands of systems worldwide, many legacy models have been discontinued or placed on extended lead times, as manufacturers prioritize newer materials like silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN).

But here’s the challenge: these newer devices aren’t drop-in replacements. They often require redesigns of drivers, heatsinks, and control logic — something most facilities running stable equipment can’t justify for one failed part.

This makes it increasingly important for MRO teams and buyers to secure reliable access to IGBTs. They’re not obsolete — they’re just harder to find. And when uptime, warranty compliance, and equipment longevity are on the line, sourcing the right IGBT isn’t optional — it’s mission-critical.

 

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When Should You Choose an IGBT Over a MOSFET?

If you're maintaining or upgrading equipment in sectors like mining, water treatment, food processing, pulp & paper, or petrochemicals, there’s a strong chance your equipment relies on IGBTs. And that’s unlikely to change soon.

 

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⚡ Need Help Finding Obsolete or Hard-to-Source IGBTs?

ATI Accurate Technology Inc. is one of the industry's leading distributors of discontinued and hard-to-find IGBT modules from trusted brands like Infineon, Semikron, Fuji, IXYS, and others.
With U.S.-based inventory, same-day shipping, and a reputation built on decades of service to MRO professionals and OEMs, ATI Accurate Technology Inc. helps keep your critical equipment running.

Reach out today to:

• 🔍 Check current inventory
  
  
• 📦 Request a fast quote
  
  
• 🛠 Get help finding replacement equivalents
  
  

📧 Email: websales@igbt.us.com
📞 Call: 239-734-7566
🌐 Visit: https://www.igbts.us

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