Environmental Criteria Optimization of a Power Module

Objective – This contribution integrates the environmental aspect into the design criteria by examining the implications for the choice of power components. Sizing criteria are selected as optimization variables. The power module is considered as an application case. Findings – The results indicate that the selection of the current rating to maximize efficiency is not always in alignment with minimizing environmental impacts. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the impact of variations in the operating cycle and energy mix on the results. Originality – This work presents novel parametric models founded upon Life Cycle Analysis, which are utilized to quantify the environmental impacts associated with voltage and current ratings. This model incorporates aging and failure as a consequence of the selected parameters within a unique context of circularity, emphasizing replacements.