Film Capacitor Standard Series Digitalization: Electromagnetic & Thermal Modeling implementation in CLARA Web Tool.

Abstract:
CLARA (Capacitor Life And Rating Application) is a web tool available on TDK Electronics' website. You can find it under Design Support > Design Tools > Film Capacitors. This tool digitalizes TDK's standard film capacitor series using electromagnetic and thermal modeling supported by simulation and confirmed by corresponding tests. It provides detailed information about the behavior of capacitors in a wide range of conditions, even those that are tough to evaluate. Electromagnetic modeling is the basis of this tool and involves the electromagnetic analysis of capacitors, the calculation of the 3D loss matrix, and virtual characterizations. The primary aim of CLARA is to provide users with comprehensive insights into the performance of capacitors under a wide array of operational conditions, including those that are traditionally challenging to assess. The foundation of this digitalization effort is a sophisticated electromagnetic analysis that allows for the detailed calculation of a three-dimensional loss matrix and facili-tates the virtual characterization of capacitors. The outcome of this process is the creation of equivalent SPICE models, which are invaluable for conducting power converter simulations in various electronic design scenarios. Moreover, electromagnetic simulations play a crucial role in augmenting thermal modeling efforts, offering a realistic portrayal of loss distribution across different conditions. This synergy between electromagnetic and thermal simulations, underpinned by empirical testing, culminates in the development of CLARA. Its in-depth insights empower designers to accurately predict the thermal behavior of various capacitor types when deployed within specific application contexts.