STMicroelectronics announced a series of high-temperature TRIACs, which maintain full specified performance up to a junction temperature of 150 degrees C, and which deliver outstanding turn-off capability – usefull for appliance motor-control applications, in particular – at their maximum temperature. The use of conventional TRIACs, which are specified at 125 degrees C junction temperature, can cause a loss of control of the AC load in environments above this temperature, which can lead to hazardous application behavior, due to device parameter derating above 125 degrees C. However, ST’s new HiTj Snubberless series requires no derating of any of its parameters up to the maximum junction temperature, and, in fact, achieves a turn-off performance at 150 degrees C, which is three to four times better than normal. In addition, the TRIACs deliver high-noise immunity of up to 1500V/microsecond. Further cost savings are possible for manufacturers through the elimination of RC snubber circuits and noise filters.

The TRIACs are for use in universal motor-control applications, such as vacuum cleaners, washing-machine drum motors, and industrial drives; in hot environments such as cookers, ovens, kitchen hobs and coffee machines; and for achieving higher power density on PCBs, for heater and high-power motor control. They can also replace conventional TRIACs in closed environments where the ambient temperature is too high. The HiTj TRIAC series is produced in TO-220AB, TO-220AB insulated (ceramic), and in D2PAK surface-mount packages, for maximum versatility. They are all 600V devices, with current ratings of 8A, 10A, 12A, 16A and 20A. The sensitivity range offered today is 35mA to 50mA, and will soon be extended with 10mA devices. The devices are available now in volume production, priced from $0.50 to $1.00 in 1000-unit quantities.