Self-protecting devices with integrated energy handling deliver 340 J, feature R25 values up to 1.5 kΩ, and support high voltages up to 1200 VDC—reducing component counts.
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.has unveiled the PTCEL High Energy series, a new line of inrush current limiting positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors. Engineered to enhance performance in active charge and discharge circuits for both automotive and industrial applications, these thermistors set a new standard with their superior energy handling and versatile design.
The High Energy series thermistors are capable of managing energy, which is five times greater than what competing devices can handle at elevated ambient temperatures. This substantial increase in energy handling is complemented by a broad selection of resistance at 25 °C (R25) values, ranging from 150 Ω to 1.5 kΩ, and the ability to withstand high voltages up to 1200 VDC. These features collectively contribute to higher efficiency and greater flexibility in circuit design.
The key features are:
- Energy absorption levels up to 340 J
- Supports over 100,000 inrush power cycles
- High resistance to non-switching peak powers up to 25 kW
One of the key advantages of the series is its robust performance at high temperatures. The devices maintain their energy handling capabilities with 180 J at 85 °C and 130 J at 105 °C, allowing engineers to reduce the number of components needed in their designs, saving space and cutting costs. Additionally, the thermistors offer a high switching temperature and can operate up to +105 °C, providing a heat capacity of 2.6 J/K across all resistance values.
The thermistors are AEC-Q200 qualified and feature a self-protecting design that eliminates the risk of overheating. This makes them ideal for applications requiring current limitation and overload protection, such as AC/DC and DC/DC converters, DC-Link circuits, battery management systems, emergency discharge circuits, on-board chargers, home energy storage systems, heat pumps, motor drives, and welding equipment. The devices are built to endure more than 100,000 inrush power cycles and can withstand non-switching peak power surges up to 25 kW, ensuring high resilience and long-term reliability.
Constructed from barium titanate, each thermistor consists of a ceramic pellet soldered between two tinned CCS wires and coated with a high-temperature silicone lacquer that complies with UL 94 V-0 standards. The thermistors are available in tape-on-reel packaging, facilitating automated handling by pick-and-place equipment, thus reducing placement costs. They come with a standard leadwire pitch of 10 mm, with options for 5.0 mm and 7.5 mm pitches also available. SPICE and 3D models are provided for these RoHS-compliant devices. Samples and production quantities of the PTCEL High Energy series thermistors are now available, with a lead time of 10 weeks, ready to meet the demands of automotive and industrial applications.
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