To offer another option for engineers to meet the reliability and performance requirements of demanding automotive and industrial applications, Knowles is introducing a new capacitor series: Type PPH double metallized polypropylene film capacitors. Designed for applications operating under high voltages, frequencies, currents, and temperatures, these capacitors play a critical role in protecting and stabilizing modern electronic systems, especially for automotive and industrial power circuits.
Engineered for reliability, Knowles Type PPH capacitors are constructed with double-sided metallized polypropylene film and encapsulated with epoxy resin in a plastic box with two tinned copper wire leads. This design enables PPH series capacitors to efficiently handle rapid voltage changes and high ripple currents, making them ideal for pulse applications where electrical stress is constant and intense
What Does a Type PPH Capacitor Do?
In power electronics, Type PPH capacitors are widely used in snubber and silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR and IGBT) and SiC (MOSFET) commutation circuits to manage voltage spikes and protect sensitive switching components. By absorbing and smoothing transient energy, these capacitors help extend the life of critical components and improve overall system reliability.
Knowles PPH series capacitors are particularly well-suited for:
- High-frequency switching circuits
- Pulse and snubber applications
- IGBT module protection
- Systems exposed to high voltage and current stress
Where Are Type PPH Capacitors Used?
These capacitors are built for environments where performance and durability are non-negotiable. Typical applications include:
- Automotive powertrains and onboard electronics
- EV charging systems and DC-DC converters
- Industrial power supplies and inverters
- Renewable and alternative energy systems
With AEC-Q200 qualification, the PPH series meets stringent automotive standards for reliability, including performance under high temperature and humidity conditions (85°C / 85% RH for 2,000 hours). This makes these capacitors a strong fit for next-generation electrification and harsh-environment applications.
Key Performance Advantages
Knowles Type PPH series capacitors offer numerous key benefits, including:
- High ripple current capability
- Self-healing dielectric to improve longevity and reliability
- Low loss and minimal inherent temperature rise for efficient operation
- High contact reliability and robust mechanical construction
- Wide operating temperature range (-55°C to +105°C)
Additionally, the PPH series supports capacitance values from approximately 0.001 µF to 4.7 µF and voltage ratings up to 2000 VDC, enabling flexibility across a wide range of designs.
Built for the Next Generation of Power Electronics
As power electronics continue to evolve, especially for EVs, renewable energy, and high-efficiency industrial systems, the need for robust, high-performance capacitors is rapidly growing. Knowles Type PPH capacitors are designed to meet these needs by combining durability, efficiency, and reliability in a compact form factor. For engineers designing the next generation of power systems, the PPH series offers a compelling solution for managing high-stress pulse environments with confidence.
View the PPH series capacitor datasheet.
Get in touch for orders or any queries: sales@rfdesign.co.za / +27 21 555 8400
Courtesy of Knowles
