Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 21, Dow, a Michigan-headquartered materials science company, has introduced a new silicone gel designed to enhance the performance of advanced power electronics in renewable energy and electric mobility applications. The product, named Dowsil EG-4175 Silicone Gel, is engineered to withstand temperatures of up to 180°C and is tailored for next-generation insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) modules used in devices such as solar inverters, wind turbines, and electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
The DOWSIL EG-4175 Silicone Gel
In a statement, the company noted: “The launch supports key trends in EVs and renewable energy. In EVs, battery voltages are increasing from 400 V to 800 V. In PV panels and wind turbines, the power densities of inverters are increasing. This improves power efficiency and supports the handling of greater electrical loads. With higher junction temperature associated with higher voltages and greater electrical loads of the 7th generation IGBT technology, a silicone gel needs to have strong dielectric properties and enhanced thermal resistance.”
According to Dow, the new gel not only provides superior dielectric strength and thermal resistance but also addresses mechanical challenges within high-performance modules. The material can absorb vibrations, reducing stress on sensitive components, and has self-healing properties that allow it to repair small cracks without external intervention. In addition, it incorporates self-priming adhesion for stronger protection of modules against environmental and operational stresses. The gel cures at room temperature for convenience, with an option for heat-accelerated curing to shorten processing times.
Cathy Chu, global strategic marketing director for Consumer & Electronics at Dow, emphasized the company’s efforts to strengthen its IGBT materials portfolio: “Dow is upgrading our IGBT materials portfolio to address the emerging trend toward achieving higher power densities. With its higher-temperature resistance compared to incumbent materials, this new silicone gel will enable our customers to design and manufacture higher-density IGBT modules with greater power system efficiency.”
The development aligns with rising demand for efficient, durable, and high-performance solutions in the clean energy and electric mobility sectors. As EV manufacturers continue to transition toward 800 V battery systems, and as renewable energy technologies expand with increasing inverter capacities, materials that can withstand greater thermal and electrical stresses are essential. Dow’s new silicone gel is positioned to support this evolution by offering both reliability and performance improvements in critical components.
By introducing Dowsil EG-4175, Dow strengthens its role as a supplier of materials that contribute to advancements in sustainable energy and transportation technologies. The innovation not only addresses technical requirements for next-generation IGBT modules but also supports broader industry trends aimed at improving energy efficiency, extending equipment lifetimes, and ensuring stable operation under demanding conditions.
