Knowles has introduced a new X1/Y2 safety-certified multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) in a compact 3825 case size, targeting electric vehicle (EV) power filtering applications. These capacitors provide capacitance values ranging from 1 nanofarad to 18 nanofarads and support voltage ratings between 310 VAC and 660 VAC, depending on the specific part selected. The design ensures a minimum 7 mm creepage distance, which is critical for high-voltage isolation within tight printed circuit board layouts.
Rated for 1500 VDC and qualified to Humidity Grade IIIB standards, these capacitors withstand harsh conditions typical of automotive underhood and industrial enclosure environments—specifically exposure to 85°C and 85% relative humidity for 1,000 hours. Knowles also certifies them under the AEC-Q200 automotive qualification, ensuring robust performance amid mechanical flexure and thermal shock across an extended temperature range from -55°C to 125°C.
This addition complements Knowles’ existing portfolio of X1/Y2-rated MLCCs, which are engineered for AC and DC line filtering and interference suppression roles in power conversion circuits. By situating across AC mains lines, these capacitors minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) while offering a safety advantage: in fault conditions, they fail in an open circuit mode rather than shorted, reducing shock hazards.
In the context of EV onboard chargers and DC/DC converters, the new 3825 case capacitors combine high capacitance, strict safety certification, and surface-mount packaging, enabling designers to replace bulkier through-hole safety capacitors. This facilitates smaller, more efficient board layouts aligned with the miniaturization trends in EV power electronics and industrial energy systems.
According to Knowles, these MLCCs help engineers meet stringent insulation and surge testing requirements essential for reliable and safe EV power system designs while supporting industry shifts toward compact, high-performance components.