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Snubber Capacitors for Power Electronics from alfatec

In modern power electronics, fast switching operations are essential - but they also pose challenges. Switching inductive loads often generates unwanted voltage spikes that can damage sensitive semiconductor components such as IGBTs or thyristors. 

The solution: snubber capacitors. alfatec offers high-quality snubber film capacitors from our partner Faratronic to maximize the reliability and lifespan of your applications—including those with ultra-high voltage requirements. 

Nahaufnahme eines Snubber-Folienkondensators, ein passives Bauelement für zuverlässige Dämpfung und Schutz in Hochfrequenzanwendungen.

What Are Snubber Capacitors and Why Are They Important?

Snubber capacitors, often referred to as snubber film capacitors, are indispensable passive components in power electronic circuits. Their primary function is to dampen voltage spikes (dV/dt limitation) caused by parasitic inductance during fast switching events. 

By adding a snubber circuit (typically an RC network) in parallel with the switching element, the energy from the voltage spike is absorbed and safely dissipated. This not only protects semiconductors from overvoltage damage but also reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and improves overall circuit efficiency. 

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Advantages of Faratronic Snubber Capacitors
Maximum reliability: Known for strict quality control and long-lasting performance—even in harsh conditions
Optimized designs: Low parasitic inductance (ESL), even in lug-terminal versions, for maximum snubber effectiveness
Broad portfolio: Solutions for various power levels, voltage ratings (up to 3000 VDC), and mounting formats (radial, axial, lug)
Application Areas
Industrial power supplies and UPS systems: Protect high-power SMPS and ensure reliability
Frequency converters and motor drives: Dampen voltage spikes in power stages, even at high motor power
Renewable energy: Used in solar and wind inverters, including multi-kilowatt systems
Welding equipment and induction heating: Protect thyristors and IGBTs under high switching loads
Railway and traction converters: Reliable operation under demanding electrical and mechanical conditions
Medical technology (e.g., MRI gradient amplifiers): Where precision and reliability are critical
Direct protection circuits for thyristors, GTOs, and IGBTs: Effective suppression of voltage spikes

Versatile Form Factors: Snubber Capacitors at alfatec

alfatec focuses on providing robust and reliable film capacitors for snubber applications. We offer products from our renowned partner Faratronic, known for its high quality and product diversity. Common form factors in our portfolio include: 

  • Radial pin type: Leads on one side, ideal for conventional through-hole PCB mounting
  • Single metallized film: Proven technology for standard applications
  • Double metallized film: Offers improved current handling and lower internal losses (ESR), ideal for demanding snubber applications
  • Lug terminal type: Rugged screw terminals for high current and vibration-resistant mounting on busbars or power modules
  • Axial type: Leads on both ends; Faratronic offers advanced solutions in this format 

These film capacitors typically use polypropylene (PP) as the dielectric, known for high voltage resistance, low losses, and excellent self-healing properties. 

Technical Parameters and Performance Characteristics 

Snubber capacitors from alfatec, especially those from Faratronic, cover a wide and demanding range of specifications: 

  • Voltage range: Rated up to 3000 VDC for ultra-high voltage applications 
  • Capacitance range: Up to 10 µF for effective damping across various inductive loads 
  • Operating temperature: Reliable up to 105°C, suitable for harsh industrial environments 
  • High insulation resistance: Ensures minimal leakage and long-term reliability 
  • Low ESR and ESL: Minimizes energy loss and enables efficient suppression of voltage spikes, even at high frequencies 
  • High dV/dt capability: Critical for protecting against rapid voltage rise in switching modern semiconductors like SiC and GaN 
  • Self-healing properties: Metallized film isolates minor breakdowns, extending capacitor life 

Our partner for snubber film 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 partner for high-quality electronic components

As your expert partner for electronic components, alfatec supports you in selecting the right snubber 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 snubber capacitors or would you like a personal consultation? Feel free to contact us.