Tyco Electronics has introduced a technology that allows surface-mountable thermal protection in RoHS-compliant reflow assembly processes. The RTP (reflowable thermal protection) device can be installed using pick-and-place and lead-free equipment, and can withstand multiple reflow passes with peak temperatures exceeding 200°C, and open at above 200°C. The RTP200R120SA is applicable for automotive, IT server, telecom power supply and other industrial applications. It helps protect against thermal-runaway damage caused by capacitors and other power components or the effects of corrosion-induced heating. The device features a low 1.2mOhm (typical) series resistance and high-current DC-interrupt ratings of 200A at 16VDC and 100A at 32VDC. Its 200°C open temperature helps prevent false activations so that the device will not open if surrounding components are operating in their target temperature range. For enabling opening at 200°C in the field, it utilizes a one-time electronic activation process to become thermally sensitive. The device is resistant to shock, vibration, temperature cycling and humidity exposure. To simplify installation, and optimise thermal coupling with the PCB, the device can be installed using standard SMD processes and does not require any special tooling or manual installation. It also helps conserve board space.
