L4X3RP Discrete Semiconductor Products

Thyristors - TRIACs

The TRIAC is a three terminal semiconductor device for controlling current, commonly known as a Thyristor. The word “TRIAC” is derived from TRIode for AC current control. The TRIAC is a four layer, three terminal device, with each layer consisting of alternately P or N type material. Thus, the device is similar in operation to two SCRs connected in an inverse parallel configuration.

Applications

TRIACs are found in many industrial and household applications, such as light dimmers, motor speed controllers, and temperature controllers. Due to their high power switching capabilities, they are also used in power control applications like industrial heating, welding, and hydraulic pumps.

Working Principle

When a TRIAC is triggered ON by a small current, it begins to conduct current across the two terminals until the supply voltage reaches zero. In order to switch the TRIAC OFF, the supply voltage is interrupted at a given point of time. TRIACs also switch OFF automatically when the load current decreases to zero or below a specified value.

L4X3RP Application Field and Working Principle

L4X3RP is an advanced TRIAC technology developed by Honeywell to operate on rapidly switching TRIAC loads. It features advanced precision and high power switching capability, making it suitable for a wide range of TRIAC applications. The L4X3RP semiconductor works by rapidly switching a low current across two power TRIACs, and includes a control circuit to ensure accurate switching.

It is based on a two-terminal TRIAC circuit that is triggered by a low current pulse. The pulse is generated by a low power digital signal generator, and is sent to the gate terminal. When the pulse is received, the TRIAC turns ON, allowing a voltage to cross between the two power terminals. When the pulse is terminated, the TRIAC turns OFF and the current stops flowing.

The L4X3RP is ideal for high power applications and provides a reliable, efficient, and affordable TRIAC switching solution. Due to its ability to rapidly switch, it also provides improved reliability and control for TRIAC applications such as industrial heating, welding, and hydraulic pumps.