Thyristors - TRIACs

A TRIAC is a three-terminal device with three N-type semiconductor regions arranged in an inverted “T” configuration. This series of devices is produced in a wide range of current and voltage ratings to support a huge variety of switching and power control applications. Among these is the CTA08-1200BW, a TRIAC with a maximum watts rating of 1200W, voltage rating of 600V and a current rating of 10A.

CTA08-1200BW Application Field

The CTA08-1200BW is suitable for applications in industrial, commercial and household environment. Its formidable ratings make it ideally suited for controlling high current and voltage to any circuit load. Some common applications for this TRIAC include motor speed control, AC phase control, lighting applications and building automation control.

Working Principle of CTA08-1200BW

The main principle governing the operation of a TRIAC device is that in order for it to be triggered into conduction, a current must be applied to Gate terminal, operating the device like a switch. When the CTA08-1200BW is triggered, its Gate terminal is left with a negative-i value. This process is reversed with the opposite direction of Vt, creating a negative Gate current. This current is then used to override the pin field effect transistor (FET) so that the gate voltage is abruptly driven to the non-conduction state.

In terms of physical operation, the TRIAC starts conduction as soon as an appropriate Gate trigger current is allowed to flow. At this point, current flow is established between MT1 and MT2, and current can flow in either direction, depending on the load. Once a load is positively connected to MT1 and MT2, the CTA08-1200BW will continuously conduct, limited only by the value of the current flowing and the voltage applied across MT1 and MT2.

Other Features

The CTA08-1200BW is designed with insulation rating of Class Y and standard isolation voltage. It also features an Overtemperature Shut-Off protection, which prevents thermal overloads that may occur due to inadequate cooling. Moreover, it also has Undervoltage Lock-Out (UVLO) function, which safeguards the circuit from potential damage if the supply voltage drops too low.

Conclusion

The CTA08-1200BW is an ideal choice for AC phase control and lighting applications. Its design and construction make it reliable, safe, and extremely easy to use. Its good current and voltage ratings coupled with Overtemperature Shut-Off and UVLO functions make it highly suitable for high voltage and current applications. The CTA08-1200BW is a great all-round solution for circuit applications.