Murata’s Multilayer Ceramic Caps Meet the Demands of Formula One Racing

 

Well-known capacitor manufacturer Murata Electronics North America has announced that its EVC Series of multilayer monolithic capacitors (MLCCs) are being used in Magnetic Marelli’s Formula One Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) product. KERS, to be implemented in the 2009 racing season, stores energy that might otherwise be wasted when breaking and applies that energy for extra power on demand. The weight of KERS is particularly important as the mass distribution inside the car can affect performance and even race eligibility. Given that weight and size are critical factors in racing, the EVC series with its compact L32 mm x W40 mm x T3.7 mm footprint fits the criteria. Essentially, Formula One cars are moving high-tech laboratories, and the introduction of KERS is a telling example.

 

Additional attributes of the EVC Series include high voltage, large capacitance, and lower ESR and ESL (as compared to its film and aluminum electrolytic counterparts). For example, maximum rated capacitance value is DC 630 V, and effective capacitance is 12 µF at DC 400 V. The EVC Series also offers surface-mount capabilities, lead free termination, reflow soldering capability, and high resistance to thermal cycling. Find more information on the Murata Electronics’ website.

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