New capacitors deliver high-reliability performance in electric and hybrid electric vehicles

AVX Corporation has released the new FHC1 and FHC2 Series power film capacitors, which were especially designed for electric and hybrid electric vehicle (EV/HEV) applications. Exhibiting high ripple current capabilities, extremely high dielectric strength in operating conditions up to 115C, low inductance, low ESR, and a low thermal footprint, the new capacitors deliver high-reliability performance that compliments and protects high-power-density inverter products. Engineered for use in the DC-link circuits between EV/HEV rectifiers and inverters, the series capacitors smooth and filter current and voltage variations and prevent ripple currents from reaching and damaging the power source, which makes them especially ideal for use in conjunction with EV and HEV IGBT modules, as well as medium-sized motor drives. Comprised of segmented, dry-wound/non-oil-filled, metallized polypropylene, which features controlled self-healing capabilities to ensure soft end-of-life performance (a gradual loss of capacitance, rather than a catastrophic failure mode), the power film capacitors are based on several elementary wound bobbins with reinforced solder points on specific bus bar offerings. Benefits of this design include: high RMS current and repartition capabilities, reduced thermal expansion constraints, high productivity, internal design flexibility, and modularity in three dimensions. "We're pleased to announce the release of our latest power film products at APEC," said John Gallipeau, technical marketing manager, power film capacitors, AVX. "This conference is widely recognized as the premier annual event in applied power electronics, so we're very proud to be here promoting many of the advanced component contributions we've made to this market. AVX is committed to the continued development of innovative component technologies that - like our new FHC1 and FHC2 Series power film capacitors - are engineered to enable next-generation power electronics in markets including: automotive, industrial, medical, mil/aero, consumer, communications, and alternative energy."