Next Generation Dry Film AC Filter Capacitor Eliminates Catastrophic Failures

Abstract:
AC filter capacitors are a limiting factor for reliability of power conversion systems in network power and alternative energy applications. Conventional capacitors with pressure interrupters or fuses often fail catastrophically with significant collateral damage. A next generation annular form factor dry-film capacitor has been developed to eliminate catastrophic failures using proprietary end connection and segmentation technology. By accepting some small additional capacitance loss over life, potential failure sites are disconnected before they can transition into dangerous faults. Extreme accelerated failure prediction results at 100 °C and 127% of rated voltage are presented with capacitance loss measurements under more practical operating conditions.