GE Aerospace and Wolfspeed have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand the use of high-voltage silicon carbide technology.
Both companies plan to work together on solutions for industrial, aerospace, and defense applications.
The partnership focuses on improving power electronics used in modern energy systems. These components help manage and control electricity in machines and equipment. Better power electronics can improve efficiency while reducing energy losses.
Silicon carbide(SiC) is an advanced semiconductor material. It performs better than traditional silicon in high-voltage and high-temperature environments. This makes it useful for demanding applications that require reliable power delivery.
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The companies will collaborate on standards for high-voltage silicon carbide power modules. These modules are key building blocks used in electrical systems. Standardized designs can accelerate adoption across multiple industries.
Under the agreement, Wolfspeed will supply its 10-kilovolt silicon carbide MOSFET die. A MOSFET is a type of electronic switch used to control electricity. These devices play a major role in modern power systems.
The companies also plan to determine common module formats for commercial products. Shared standards can simplify manufacturing and integration. This approach can help customers deploy new technologies more quickly.
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High-Voltage Silicon Carbide for AI
The collaboration aligns with growing demand for power infrastructure. Artificial intelligence data centers require increasing amounts of electricity. Industrial electrification projects are also creating new challenges for power management.
High-voltage silicon carbide devices offer several advantages over conventional silicon technology. They can operate at higher voltages while maintaining efficiency. This reduces the number of components required in a system.
Using fewer components helps simplify system design. It can also reduce weight and physical size. Engineers often value these benefits in aerospace and defense applications where space is limited.
The technology is also important for solid-state transformers. These advanced transformers use electronics instead of relying entirely on traditional hardware. They help improve power control and energy efficiency.
Government agencies in the US have identified advanced power technologies as a strategic priority. Faster deployment of reliable power systems supports national goals in technology and infrastructure. The need has become more urgent as AI computing continues to expand.
GE Aerospace President of Electrical Power Kris Shepherd said both companies have contributed to major technology developments in the past. He stated that the partnership aims to build a stronger high-power silicon carbide value chain. He added that the focus remains on creating smaller, more reliable, and more efficient systems.
Wolfspeed Powers Silicon Carbide
The agreement also emphasizes domestic sourcing and supply chain resilience. Reliable access to semiconductor technology has become a major concern across many industries. Companies are seeking secure and stable supply networks.
Wolfspeed CEO Robert Feurle said rising demand from AI, electrification, and defense markets is creating pressure on power systems. He stated that the partnership will help deliver the high-voltage silicon carbide components needed by customers. He also highlighted the importance of improving efficiency and reducing deployment timelines.
GE Aerospace has already made progress in silicon carbide technology. The company recently qualified high-voltage power units for US military ground vehicles. This milestone means the systems are ready for production use.
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The company has also demonstrated its fourth-generation silicon carbide power MOSFET technology. These devices are designed to improve switching speed and durability. Faster switching helps power systems operate more efficiently.
Wolfspeed brings significant manufacturing expertise to the partnership. The company is recognized as a leader in the large-scale production of 200-millimeter silicon carbide. Its manufacturing capacity supports growing demand from multiple industries.
The company recently introduced what it describes as the world’s first commercially available 10-kilovolt silicon carbide MOSFET. The product received recognition at the PCIM industry event. It provides a production-ready option for high-voltage applications.
The partnership reflects a broader shift toward advanced semiconductor technologies. Industries are searching for ways to deliver more power while improving efficiency. Traditional silicon devices face increasing limitations in these demanding environments.
As power requirements continue to rise across AI, transportation, industrial automation, and defense systems, high-voltage silicon carbide is an important technology.
The collaboration between GE Aerospace and Wolfspeed aims to accelerate commercial adoption and establish common industry standards. Those efforts could help shape the next generation of high-performance power systems worldwide.
