Compact Polypropylene Capacitors by KEMET

Distinctive features of film capacitors include exceptionally high pulse strength and stability. They are produced from strips of metallised plastic (dielectric). When it comes to polypropylene components, polypropylene (PP) acts as an insulator. Components produced using this technology offer low ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) and ESL (Equivalent Series Inductance) values. Due to such specifications and resistance to abrupt voltage changes (surges) in the circuit, they are often used in high-power and high-voltage systems (switch-mode power supplies, audio amplifiers etc.).

Regardless of their theoretical capabilities, capacitors are prone to damage resulting from prolonged use, in particular when it comes to imprecisely manufactured ones. Using polypropylene components form a renowned brand in the circuit ensures longer life of the system and its higher operating stability. KEMET is a recommendable supplier of such components – it is a global company that focuses on improving and manufacturing almost all types of capacitors. R53 polypropylene capacitors constitute a unique solution not only due to their parameters, but also the AEC-Q200 certification.

AEC-Q200 qualification

The first part of the AEC-Q200 acronym stands for Automotive Electronics Council. The basic standards set by this institution include: Q100 (requirements regarding integrated circuits), Q101 (discrete semiconductors, i.e. transistors, diodes etc.) and Q200 (passive components), which is a key standard when it comes to capacitors. The AEC-Q200 qualification requires that the components are resistant to a relatively wide temperature range (and its sudden changes), can operate in an environment with increased humidity and offer mechanical durability (shocks, vibrations). While manufacturing the R53 series, KEMET met all those requirements, in some cases exceeding the required values.

R53 series – overview

Polypropylene capacitors by KEMET from the R53 series are designed to ensure resistance when operating in harsh environmental conditions, which is confirmed by the AEC-Q200 certification. Moreover, the components are produced using self-extinguishing epoxy resin, thanks to which they meet the requirements of the UL94V-0 fire protection standard. Another strong point of these products is their compact size. Due to technological reasons, film capacitors are rarely available in SMD packages. However, KEMET put effort into miniaturisation of the R53 series (for THT applications), which allows to build circuits of a reduced surface area, while maintaining satisfactory electrical parameters.

TME offers R53 capacitors with capacitance rating ranging from 100nF to 22µF (10% or 20% tolerance, depending on the model). The components are fitted with leads spaced at 15mm – 37.5 mm. They are intended for operating at voltages up to 310V AC.  Their advantage is a wide range of operating temperatures: from -40°C to 110°C.

Capacitance rating: 100…470nF

Capacitance rating: 560…820nF

Capacitance rating: 1… 22µF

Capacitors from the R53 series are designed e.g. for electromagnetic interference suppression circuits, therefore they are X2 safety-certified (resistance to surge pulses up to 2.5kV). This means they can be successfully applied as line filters, in electricity meters and as components of voltage dividers in capacitive power supplies. They are mainly intended for automotive applications.

* depending on the model