New MLCCs meet high-voltage demands of EV industry

Samsung Electro-Mechanics is releasing a new range of MLCCs (multi-layer ceramic capacitors) that meet growing demand for high rated voltage solutions within the electric vehicle (EV) industry. These 1812 inch X7R MLCCs offer 2.2nF~470nF capacitance and, most notably, rated voltage up to 2000Vdc.

The prevailing trend in EVs is seeing the application of higher voltages to a growing list of power electronic components. In motion, the vehicle’s charging and distribution system supplies energy to the electric drive system, motors and other sub-systems. Initial generations of EVs connected these sub-systems using 400V power rails. However, the trend today is towards 800V platforms, not just to take advantage of fast-charging technologies but also the greater efficiency of drivetrains at high torque or speed (from higher applied voltage).

There are obvious implications of this shift for key electronic components such as on-board chargers (OBCs), motor drive inverters, DC-DC converters, wireless power transfer systems (WPTs), battery management systems (BMS), compressors and pumps. All require the support of MLCCs offering high rated voltage.

To carry a high voltage rating, MLCCs require a number of key engineering attributes. With this in mind, the latest solution from Samsung Electro-Mechanics sees higher bending strength in the already substantial 1812-inch (4.5×3.2mm) size by employing proprietary ceramics, micronizing materials, and the application of innovative soft termination technology. These factors successfully combine to meet the high-voltage demands of the latest electronic components for EVs. As a point of note, the new MLCCs comply with AEC-Q200, the global standard for stress resistance that all passive electronic components must meet for use within the automotive industry.

Carrying the package codes CL43B222KJRRP#, CL43B224KHU6PJ# and CL43B474KEU6PJ#, mass production of these state-of-the-art MLCCs is already underway. Suitable for use in operating temperatures up to 125°C, all of the new MLCCs from Samsung Electro-Mechanics offer RoHS and REACH compliance. Samples are available upon request.