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LTC3891, LTC7800, or something else for 36Vin, 24Vout, 8Aout continuous?

Category: Hardware
Product Number: LTC3891

The LTC3891 and LTC7800 are pin compatible but have an upper output voltage limit of 24V, which I'd like to operate them at. The converters will supply a linear actuator that typically draws 8A continuous for about 15 seconds when lifting, then 2A continuous for about 15 seconds when lowering a load. The actuator does not move constantly but the converter needs to operate without forced air cooling at up to 50C ambient (estimate based on being semi-enclosed with 30Cish outside temps). Are there better options for this application that have similar cost/size? A single phase is probably more cost effective than a dual phase at these currents, but dual phase wouldn't be out of the question if there's a good part that I missed.

I did notice the LTC7891 might be an option because even though it is designed for use with GAN FETs it could be used with logic level MOSFETs. Any suggestions are appreciated.

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  • Hi  ,

    Apologies for the quite-delayed reply. A few questions about your application:

    • Is pin compatibility with the LTC7800 required?
    • What is the input range? How stable is your input?
    • How good does the regulation need to be?
    • What are your size constraints? Do you require high frequency operation?
    • What price are you trying to stay under? Is your concern with multiphase a function of extra switches or just the IC or total cost?

    One idea: If you are not completely against buying more switches, you could look at similar dual or triple output parts such as the LTC7819, and tie the outputs together. Since the switch ratings can be less, and the whole thing is interleaved, your efficiency goes up, overall heating goes down. Also, if your supply approaches the output, the PassThru(tm) capability allows efficiency to reach ideals.

    mike

  • Hi Mike. Thanks for responding.

    Pin compatibility with the LTC7800 is not required. We can start from scratch so any part is on the table.

    The input is from a 36V nominal LiIon battery pack. Operating voltage range is about 25V to 42V (50Vmax).

    The regulation does not need to that great since it's powering an actuator. An output of 24V +/-10% would not cause any issues, although we'd prefer it to be on the higher side of 24V.

    The overall size of our existing modular converter plus input/output electrolytic caps occupies roughly 7cm x 4cm on the PCB.

    We do not require high frequency operation.

    We'd like to stay under the price of the existing module (~$60) which shouldn't be too difficult to do. A multiphase converter would be fine if it provides a decent increase in efficiency versus the additional cost compared to a single phase converter.

    The LTC7819 looks like a nice part but only has up to 40V input.

  • Hi  ,

    Another option is the LTC3899. You don't really need the boost, but Passthru, again, might help your efficiency.

    mike

  • Thanks for the suggestions. There are a few parts worth considering that were not on my radar.

    The LTC7821 hybrid topology has some impressive efficiency but isn't anything I've worked with before.

    The LTC3899 3 phase topology would certainly work at the expense of more power stage components.

    The LTC7810 2 phase topology might be the sweet spot.

    I'll have to look at each of these in more detail, but please let me know if you think any of these is better suited to our application.