In the following paragraphs we compare two most typical resistor types for energy resistor programs, Wirewound construction and thick film technology.
No matter the development the most crucial design factors when creating any energy resistor are:
The resistor value
The needed energy handling capacity
Resistance stability with time
Alternation in resistance value with temperature
In almost any high energy application temperature effects and also the resistor energy handling capacity would be the primary factors. The types of materials and techniques accustomed to construct the resistor includes a direct effect on its long-term performance and stability.
Resistor Construction
The resistor construction and designs includes a direct effect on its long-term stability and gratifaction. Total resistance is dependent upon the resistivity from the resistor material, and also the resistor track length, width and thickness. You will find apparent restrictions with whatever resistor materials are selected. For thick film resistors although you’ll be able to increase track width and length major increases thick aren’t possible along with a limited selection of material resistivity can be found. For wirewound growing either the wire thickness or length includes a major effect on the length of the resistor.
The long-term stability from the resistor material and also the impact of temperature will also be key factors. Temperature effects can degrade the resistor performance or, in extraordinary instances, cause resistor failure. Within the thick film resistors temperature effects could be reduced by selecting a suitable thickness of the appropriate substrate material. For Wirewound resistors the development, core material, the wire type and diameter, the all require consideration.
Evaluating Resistor Technologies
The important thing benefits of thick film energy resistors over Wirewound are more compact size, can be found at considerably less expensive (including pedaling cost), have lower inductance and enhanced thermal management. Thick film resistors are thus more compact, possess a faster frequency response and therefore are more appropriate to warmth sinking programs. Thick film technology also provides greater resistance values and greater current rating than Wirewound resistors.
The main benefit of thick film technology in high energy programs may be the high thermal conductivity from the ceramic (Alumina) substrate which makes it well suited for programs where high energy dissipation is needed in a tiny area. The substrate material means it’s an excellent complement the aluminium material in warmth sinks and it is chemically inert and robotically stable.