characteristics thyristor

Study the characteristics of thyristor and determine

the extent of the effects that may occur on them as a result of high
current through changing the variable resistance.
We connect the direct current source, which is on the left, with
the resistor, which has a value of 10 kilograms, then to the jet,
and from the anode end to the variable resistance, which has a
value of 10 kilograms, then to the other source, and from the
other source, we return to the other source, which has a value
of 5 volts, and the ammeter must be connected once. Series with
the 10 kilo ohm resistor and again with the series between the
source whose value is 12 volts and the variable resistance
whose value is 10 kilo ohms. As for the voltmeter, we connect
one end of it to any part we want to measure and the other end
to the ground.

What is a thyristor?
A thyristor is a three-terminal semiconductor electronic device also
known as a silicon controlled diode (SCR). It consists of four layers
of semiconductor materials arranged in a PN-PN structure, and
contains three terminals:
Anode (A): The terminal from which current enters the thyristor.
Cathode (K): The terminal from which current exits the thyristor.
Gate (G): The terminal that is used to control the flow of current
through the thyristor.
Thyristor characteristics:
Unidirectional conduction: Thyristors allow current to flow in only
one direction, from the anode to the cathode. This tendency is known
as "forward conduction."
Gate Control: The flow of current through the thyristor can be
controlled by applying a voltage pulse to the gate. This process is
called "ignition."
Off state: When no voltage is applied to the gate, the thyristor is in the
“off” state and does not allow current to flow.
Conducting state: Once the thyristor is ignited, it enters the
“conducting” state and allows current to flow even if the gate voltage
is removed.
Continuation Current: Continuation current is the minimum current
that must pass through the thyristor to maintain conduction state.
Extinguishing Voltage: Extinguishing voltage is the minimum voltage
that must be applied to the anode and cathode to turn off the thyristor.
Turn-off time: It is the time it takes the thyristor to go from the ON
state to the OFF state.
Rise time: The time it takes the thyristor to go from the off state to the
on state.

Thyristor applications:
AC Control: Thyristors are used to control the speed of motors, adjust
the intensity of light, and regulate power in many electronic devices.
Rectifier Circuits: Thyristors are used in rectifier circuits to convert
alternating current to direct current.
Switching Circuits: Thyristors are used in switching circuits to control
switching on and off of electrical appliances.
Electronic Switches: Thyristors are used as electronic switches to
control the flow of current in electronic circuits.
Note: The thyristor is a temperature-sensitive device, so care must be
taken not to expose it to high temperatures. Thyristors must be used
with appropriate protection circuits to prevent damage from excessive
currents or high voltages
Thyristor working principle:

The operation of the thyristor depends on its

PN-PN structure, which consists of four
layers of semiconductor materials:

N1 layer: It is called the “transmitting” layer

because it contains a large number of free electrons.
P1 layer: It is called the “receiving” layer because it contains a large
number of holes.
N2 layer: The layer is called the “gate” because it is used to control
the flow of current.
P2 layer: The layer is called the “base layer” because it is used to
increase the working efficiency of the thyristor.
Ignition process:

When an appropriate voltage is applied to the gate, the thyristor goes

into the “on” state.
This voltage increases the number of electrons in the N2 layer,
allowing current to pass from the anode to the cathode.
Once current starts flowing, the thyristor becomes “conducting” and
allows current to flow even if the gate voltage is removed.
Extinguishing process:
Thyristors can be turned off by applying a reverse voltage to the
anode and cathode.
This voltage causes the charges of electrons and holes in the thyristor
to redistribute, preventing current from flowing.
A thyristor can also be turned off by reducing the current through it
below the continuing current.
Important properties of thyristors:

Hold current: It is the minimum current that must pass through the
thyristor to maintain the conduction state.
Extinguishing Voltage: It is the minimum voltage that must be
applied to the anode and cathode to turn off the thyristor.
Turn-off time: It is the time it takes the thyristor to go from the ON
state to the OFF state.
Rise time: The time it takes the thyristor to go from the off state to the
on state.
Thyristor applications:

AC Control: Thyristors are used to control the speed of motors, adjust

the intensity of light, and regulate power in many electronic devices.
Rectifier Circuits: Thyristors are used in rectifier circuits to convert
alternating current to direct current.
Switching Circuits: Thyristors are used in switching circuits to control
switching on and off of electrical appliances.
Electronic Switches: Thyristors are used as electronic switches to
control the flow of current in electronic circuits.
What are the advantages of thyristors?
1. High Voltage and Current Handling Capability: Thyristors can handle high
voltage and current levels, making them suitable for power control and
high-power applications.
2. Reliability: Thyristors are known for their robustness and reliability. They
have a long operational life and can withstand harsh operating conditions.
3. Fast Switching Speeds: Thyristors have fast switching capabilities,
allowing for quick and precise control of electrical power.
4. Low Cost: Compared to some other power electronic devices, thyristors
are often cost-effective. This makes them an attractive option for various
applications where cost is a significant consideration.
5. Simple Control Circuitry: The control circuitry for thyristors is generally
simpler compared to other power electronic devices. This simplicity can
lead to cost savings and ease of implementation.
6. High Temperature Tolerance: Thyristors can operate efficiently at high
temperatures, which is beneficial in applications where elevated
temperatures are common.
7. High Efficiency: Thyristors exhibit high efficiency in converting AC to DC
power and vice versa, making them suitable for power conversion
applications.
8. Versatility: Thyristors find applications in a wide range of devices and
systems, including motor drives, voltage regulators, power supplies, and
inverters.
9. Low Maintenance: Due to their robust design, thyristors typically require
minimal maintenance, contributing to their reliability and longevity.
10.Suitability for Phase Control: Thyristors are commonly used for phase
control applications, allowing for precise control of power in AC circuits.