Tyco introduces MHP circuit protection technology

Tyco Electronics has introduced Metal Hybrid PPTC (MHP) technology suitable for high-rate-discharge battery applications at ratings above 30VDC/30A.

MHP technology uses a hybrid circuit protection approach that combines a bimetal protector in parallel with a polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) device.

It provides resettable over-current protection and utilises the low resistance of the PPTC device to help prevent arcing in the bimetal protector at higher currents, while also heating the bimetal to keep it open and in a latched position.

The MHP30-36 device has a 36VDC/100A maximum rating and a time-to-trip of under five seconds at 100A (at 25C).

Its hold current is 30A and the initial resistance is less than 2mOhms, making it suitable for use in applications such as cordless power tools, e-bikes and back-up power supplies.

It can also help reduce the number of discharge field effect transistors (FETs) and accompanying heat sinks in applications that typically use IC-plus-FET battery protection designs.

Higher voltage (up to 400VDC) and hold current (60A) devices are currently in development.

Future design considerations include battery protection in Li-ion battery packs used in e-scooters and light electric vehicles (LEVs), as well as standby-power applications and non-battery applications such as electric motor protection.

Back to top