These DC link capacitors work up to 125°C without derating and handle high ripple current. Can they help EV and industrial converters run stable?
DC link capacitors in automotive and industrial converters are required to operate at high ambient temperatures, handle continuous ripple current, and fit into compact inverter layouts without derating. These demands are common in xEV traction inverters, onboard chargers, DC-DC converters, frequency converters, industrial and high-end power supplies, and solar inverters, where thermal margin and electrical stability directly affect system life.
TDK Corporation has introduced the B3271xP series of DC link film capacitors for automotive and industrial power electronics. The series supports a maximum operating temperature of +125 °C and does not require power derating up to +105 °C. It maintains stable capacitance and reliable energy buffering in compact inverter systems. This is relevant for xEV traction inverters, onboard chargers, and DC-DC converters, where elevated ambient temperatures and continuous ripple loads are typical. Main applications include frequency converters, industrial and high-end power supplies, and solar inverters.
The series covers capacitance values from 0.47 µF to 110 µF and rated DC voltages from 600 V to 1200 V. This range enables design flexibility in frequency converters, industrial and high-end power supplies, and solar inverters. The dielectric is polypropylene (metallized polypropylene, MKP). It provides low losses, high ripple current capability, and self-healing behavior, helping maintain efficiency and extend system lifetime under electrical stress.
The capacitors use a flame-retardant plastic case with epoxy sealing compliant with UL 94 V-0. They are available with lead spacings of 27.5 mm, 37.5 mm, and 52.5 mm. Versions include 2-pin configurations and, on request, 4-pin configurations to support mechanical stability and low-inductance layouts. Typical ESR values can reach the single-digit milliohm range, and the devices support high current capability at 10 kHz, contributing to stable DC link filtering and controlled thermal rise.
The series complies with AEC-Q200E and UL 810 (construction). It addresses automotive reliability expectations while also meeting global industrial requirements, supporting converter designs focused on efficiency, stability, and long-term operation.