Engineering 20.08

This Engineering Intelligence introduces three new series of high-temperature capacitors, as well as new stacked ceramic capacitors which eliminate the single-source challenge for turbo-charging power supplies. A range of components has also just been launched to support pro-audio applications.

As component manufacturers begin to return to full capacity, Charcroft is fully available to support you with technical advice and to keep you up to date with the latest advances in new components.

We can support you with virtual meetings over Microsoft Teams, Skype or Zoom and by staying in close contact with the component manufacturers, we can help you to address your technical challenges.

You can request a sample of the new products highlighted below, or you can contact me directly on Roger.Tall@charcroft.com.

Stable film capacitors up to 200°C for defence, O&G

The 253P PTFE film caps from Exxelia can replace several X7R caps with no derating and achieve the lowest loss characteristic of below 0.1%. The 253P capacitors are resistant to vibration, shock and over-voltage conditions. The operating temperature range is -55°C to +200°C and standard tolerance is ±10% or ±5%.

The US-manufactured capacitors have a rugged and lightweight construction and meet the specifications needed for applications in oil & gas, aerospace, defence and high-temperature modules.

Features
• 250V to 800V DC voltage
• 0.22μF to 1μF capacitance
• ±10%, ±5% tolerance
• -55°C to +200°C temperature
• Customisation available

High-temperature polymer capacitors up to 180°C

In harsh environments, the 560P polymer film capacitors from Exxelia can be used as an alternative for high-temperature ceramic and tantalum capacitors for DC Link and AC filtering.

Electrical performance is between BOPP and polyester film (PET) capacitors and the 560P polymer film capacitors require no derating up to 150°C. Stability is provided with Temperature Coefficient of Capacitance (TCC) of <2.5% and the 560P capacitors are resistant to vibration, shock and over-voltage.

Features
• 320V to 800V DC voltage
• 0.022μF to 10μF capacitance
• ±10%, ±5% tolerance
• -55°C to +180°C temperature range
• Customisation available

Stacked ceramic capacitor assemblies overcome sole-source challenges

The SV series of ceramic capacitor assemblies from Knowles combines an X7R dielectric with a high capacitance-to-volume ratio. Low Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) is combined with low Equivalent Series Inductance (ESL) to enable the assemblies to handle high ripple currents at high frequencies. Reducing ESR enables less power loss and improves reliability by minimising the impact of self-heating (I2R) losses and degradation.

The SV series is 100% tested for dielectric withstanding voltage, insulation resistance, capacitance and dissipation factor.

Features
• 25V, 50V, 100V
• Capacitance from 14μF to 220μF
• High capacitance to volume ratio
• Low ESR and low ESL
• Handles high ripple current at high frequency

Highest energy-density, high-voltage aluminium electrolytic capacitors

The high-voltage FELSIC HC and SNAPSIC HC aluminium electrolytic capacitors from Exxelia increase energy density to reduce board space and weight. Six FELSIC HC capacitors can replace 12 standard capacitors and the full voltage range is from 10V to 500V, with capacitance values from 100µF to 2.7F.

The SNAPSIC HC capacitors simplify battery assembly and can meet custom designs. The voltage range is 25V to 500V and capacitance values are from 33µF to 47,000µF across 24 case sizes.

Features
• High energy density
• Low ESR
• Long lifetime 8000h @85°C
• Customisable
• Up to 450V

GIGAVAC contactor for high-power battery packs up to 150A

As the main contactor, or as a pre-charge contactor in larger battery packs, the GV210 series of GIGAVAC contactors from Sensata continuously carries up to 150A with low power losses. Capable of high pulse currents for fuse coordination, the contactor can switch loads to enable safe operation.

The hermetic seal exceeds IP67 and IP69 and prevents oxidation for reliable operation in corrosive or wet applications. The long mechanical lifetime is for one million cycles. The mounting position is not sensitive and the GV210 is suitable for use in hazardous operating environments.

Features
• Hermetically sealed to IP67/IP69
• Not sensitive to mounting position
• Hazardous/classified environments
• High voltage isolation
• 1 million cycles mechanical life

KEMET and Yageo merger completed

The merger of KEMET and Yageo has been completed and KEMET is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Yageo. The merger provides a combined total of 42 manufacturing plants and 14 dedicated R&D centres worldwide.

KEMET holds more than 1,600 patents and trademarks worldwide and the merger will provide support for a range of passive components. These components include polymer, tantalum, ceramic, film and electrolytic capacitors in addition to chip resistors, circuit protection devices, magnetics, sensors and actuators.

These components are used in sectors which include advanced automotive electronics, aerospace, medical and industrial applications, as well as alternative energy and 5G technology.

KEMET Joins OECD Call to Action

As the world’s largest user of element 73, tantalum, KEMET took an early leadership position in obtaining certified conflict-free minerals and the company understands the impact of sustainability on direct operations and the supply chain

The supply chains of mineral resources have been severely disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has also depressed international prices and forced mining sites and processing facilities to close or suspend operations.

View Conflict Minerals Statement