B72250L0321K102

TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) devices, Varistors and MOVs (Metal Oxide Varistors) are often used in circuits where surges in voltage could present a potential hazard. In this article, we will take a look at a specific device of this type, the B72250L0321K102, and explore its application field and working principles.

The B72250L0321K102 is a surface mount MOV of the "RADIAL" family. It is a metal oxide varistor with a lead spacing of 3.5mm. It is fabricated using highly reliable zinc oxide varistors that have a low residual voltage force and superior clamping behaviour. It is also designed with an additional protective element, typically a ceramic sleeve, to reduce the possibility of varistor breakage due to vibration or mechanical shock.

The main application field of the B72250L0321K102 is to protect against transient voltage such as electrostatic discharge (ESD) and lightning surges. The MOV operates by diverting energy through itself as it is triggered to a breakdown condition. The energy is typically dissipated in the form of thermal energy and, in the case of the B72250L0321K102, heat is spread across the bottom contact ring and ceramic sleeve for effective heat dissipation.

The working principle of the B72250L0321K102 can be explained using the popular 3-phase electrical power metaphor. Electric power flows through the MOV in a forward direction when the voltage is lower than the breakdown voltage (Vbr) of the device. When the voltage reaches Vbr, it triggers the device and the electric power flows through the device in a reverse direction as it clamps the voltage at a certain level. This allows the device to absorb large transients and dissipate them while protecting the rest of the circuit from damage.

The B72250L0321K102 is able to provide reliable protection from transient voltage surges, and its low residual voltage force ensures that it remains stable when exposed to multiple surge events. Furthermore, its additional protective element is able to reduce the possibility of varistor breakage in the case of physical shocks or vibration. The B72250L0321K102 is thus an ideal device for protecting a circuit from transient voltage surges.