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Polypropylene Capacitors: High Voltage & Low Loss Performance

When maximum efficiency and reliability are required in demanding circuits, polypropylene capacitors (often referred to as PP capacitors or CBB capacitors) are the first choice. These high-performance film capacitors are known for their extremely low dissipation factor and excellent electrical stability. 

alfatec GmbH & Co. KG offers a wide range of polypropylene film capacitors that meet demanding requirements for rated voltage, capacitance, and temperature range. Our trusted partner for polypropylene film capacitors: Faratronic. 

Ansicht eines Polypropylen-Kondensators, ein passives Bauelement für zuverlässige Kapazität und stabile Leistung in elektronischen Anwendungen.

What Makes Polypropylene Capacitors Special?

The key to the outstanding performance of polypropylene capacitors lies in the dielectric material: polypropylene (PP) film. Compared to other film capacitors (such as polyester), this material has a significantly lower dissipation factor (tan δ), especially at higher frequencies. 

This results in lower self-heating and higher efficiency in AC and pulse applications. They are typically manufactured with metallized electrodes (CBB capacitors), which provide self-healing properties and high capacitance density. For special high-current or pulse applications, film/foil versions with solid foil electrodes are also available. 

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Advantages and Highlights of Faratronic PP Capacitors
Maximum efficiency: Ideal for energy-efficient designs due to minimal dissipation factor.
AC and pulse durability: Robust against AC voltages and high current pulses.
High reliability: Metallized types offer self-healing—Faratronic stands for consistent quality.
Wide application range: From low-power to high-power electronics.
Stable performance: Low capacitance variation with frequency and temperature (within spec).
Custom solutions: Tailored adaptations possible in collaboration with Faratronic.
Application Areas
Power factor correction (PFC): Improves power quality in power supplies and converters.
AC filtering: Input/output filters in inverters, UPS systems, and motor drives.
Resonant converters: Used as resonance capacitors in LLC and other resonant topologies.
DC-link / intermediate circuit: Especially at higher frequencies or where low losses are critical (up to 195 µF).
Snubber circuits: Protect semiconductors (IGBTs, MOSFETs) from voltage spikes.
Lighting technology: Electronic ballasts for fluorescent lamps and LEDs.
Audio applications: Crossovers and coupling capacitors in high-end audio systems.
High-frequency power electronics: Induction heating, welding equipment.

Connection and Package Variants at alfatec

To meet various installation and current requirements, alfatec offers polypropylene capacitors from Faratronic in a variety of configurations: 

  • Radial pin: Standard leads for THT PCB mounting, available in various lead spacings.
  • Lug terminals: Robust screw terminals for high currents and secure mounting on busbars or modules.
  • Isolated pin: Special lead variants for enhanced safety or specific mounting needs.
  • Axial pin: Cylindrical form with leads on both ends for THT or free wiring.
  • Box type: Enclosed in protective plastic housing, often used for higher capacitance and voltage ratings or harsh environments.
  • Dipped type: Epoxy-coated versions as a cost-effective solution for THT mounting. 

Customized solutions for terminals or housing dimensions are also often possible. 

Technical Parameters and Performance Characteristics 

Faratronic’s PP capacitors in the alfatec portfolio cover an impressive range: 

  • Rated voltage: Designed for demanding applications up to 3000 VDC and 900 VAC.
  • Capacitance range: Available up to 195 µF - ideal for DC-link, AC filtering, or PFC.
  • Temperature range: Reliable operation from -40°C to +85°C/105°C, with special types up to 125°C (with possible voltage derating).
  • Extremely low dissipation factor: Minimizes losses and self-heating—critical for AC and high-frequency applications.
  • Very high insulation resistance: Ensures minimal leakage current and excellent long-term stability.
  • Excellent frequency stability: Capacitance remains nearly constant across a wide frequency range.
  • High pulse strength (dV/dt): Suitable for applications with rapid voltage changes (e.g., snubber circuits). 

Our partner for polypropylene capacitors

Logo Faratronic

Faratronic

Faratronic is one of the world's largest manufacturers of film capacitors, producing DC links, X & Y capacitors and snubber film capacitors, among others. As one of the top electronic component companies in China, Faratronic invests around 3% of its turnover in R&D and supplies the automotive, energy and industrial sectors with perfectly customised solutions.

 

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alfatec – Your Expert for Polypropylene Capacitors

As an experienced distributor of electronic components, alfatec supports your project implementation with: 

  • Expert consultation: We help you select the optimal PP capacitor (CBB type) based on rated voltage, capacitance, lead spacing, and application profile. 
  • Strong partnership: Close collaboration with Faratronic ensures access to a broad and deep product range. 
  • Availability and logistics: We stock common types and offer flexible delivery options. 
  • Custom requests: We’re happy to assess the feasibility of customized capacitors for your specific application. 

Request your personalized quote now

See for yourself the quality and performance of our polypropylene capacitors. Request a non-binding quote today or download the data sheets.

alfatec – your partner for high-quality electronic components

As your expert partner for electronic components, alfatec supports you in selecting the right polypropylene capacitors for your applications. We offer comprehensive advice and are happy to answer any questions you may have about power modules.

Do you have questions about our polypropylene capacitors or would you like a personal consultation? Feel free to contact us.