NTC thermistor delivers fast and high accuracy automotive measurement

Vishay Intertechnology has launched a new AEC-Q200 qualified NTC thermistor with PEEK-insulated, NiFe leads and a low thermal gradient. Created to endure high temperatures up to +185C, the Vishay BCcomponents NTCLE350E4 produces fast, high accuracy temperature measurement and sensing in a broad variety of automotive applications.

The NiFe alloy of the device's conductor wire claims to offer the lowest thermal conductivity available. Subsequently, the device provides a thermal gradient of less than 0.01 K/K (or 1%), dissipating virtually no heat to the surrounding environment and providing for high accuracy temperature measurement. Other conductive materials, including copper, can vary by several degrees. To increase reliability in high humidity conditions, the sensor offers high adhesive strength between its PEEK-insulated lead wires and encapsulating epoxy lacquer. A small maximum bead size diameter of 2.4mm results in a fast response time of 6s in air.

The device's exceptional accuracy, fast speed, and high-temperature abilities make it excellent for engine coolant, fuel, and manifold air pressure (MAP/TMAP) sensors in combustion engines, as well as HVAC applications. In electric traction motors, the device can be processed by potting or moulding into sensors to protect high current connectors. The device can also serve in oil temperature sensors in transmission systems and liquid-cool starter generator systems and EGR applications.

The RoHS-compliant sensor provides resistance at +25C (R25) from 2.1kOhm to 30kOhm, with tolerance down to 1%, and beta (B25/85) from 3435K to 3984K, with tolerance down to ±0.5%. The device provides maximum power dissipation of 100mW and increased resistance to noxious gases and acid.