Kemet has introduced a new capacitor technology for use in high voltage applications susceptible to surface arcing (arc-over discharge).

Called ArcShield, the technology features an internal shield electrode system that suppresses arc-over while increasing available capacitance.

"ArcShield High Voltage capacitors are primarily suited for applications, such as automotive, that meet or exceed 500V with exposure to high humidity environments. Conditions such as these promote surface arcing in MLCCs,” said Dr. Phil Lessner, Kemet chief technology officer.

"ArcShield devices inhibit surface arc-over discharge, thereby preventing damage to the capacitor and surrounding components on a printed circuit board," said Lessner.

Surface arcing is generally caused by a high voltage gradient between the MLCC’s termination surfaces or between one termination surface and the component’s internal electrode structure.

According to Kemet, this can either damage surrounding components or lead to a breakdown of the MLCC’s dielectric material, ultimately leading to a short-circuit condition.

ArcShield High Voltage MLCCs are also available in automotive grade, which undergo stricter testing protocol and inspection criteria. Whether under-hood or in-cabin, these devices are designed for mission and safety-critical automotive circuits or applications requiring proven, reliable performance in harsh environments.

Typical markets include power supply, LCD fluorescent backlight ballasts, HID lighting, telecom equipment, industrial and medical equipment/control, LAN/WAN interface, analogue and digital modems, and automotive.

Typical applications include switch mode power supplies (input filters, resonators, tank circuits, snubber circuits, output filters), high voltage coupling and DC blocking, lighting ballasts, voltage multiplier circuits, DC/DC converters and coupling capacitors in Cuk converters.

http://www.KEMET.com/IR