Global provider of engineered electronics for performance critical applications, Microhm Electronics, has announced the heatsink specifically designed to optimise the thermal performance of its NLR series  and MVR series power resistors. Providing a combination of high surface area, cooling performance, compact dimensions and light weight, the PCB mounting heatsink is suitable for use in power supplies, power amplifiers, motor drives and inrush current control applications requiring resistors operating in the 20-100W range.
 

 

Heatsink can be used for TO220, TO247 or 4-ternimal kelvin power resistors, such as Microhm Electronics' NLR35, NLR100 and MVR series, in compact power electronic assemblies in the industrial and medical markets. Factors driving the demand for this type of product are the growth in distributed power management and motion control in industrial and automated systems, and the pressure to reduce size and weight whilst increasing cooling effectiveness and product reliability.

 

The compact footprint  can minimises the use of valuable PCB area, and its low thermal resistance keeps assemblies cool and improves reliability. Reducing overall product weight and assembly time, the heatsink uses two solderable tinned brass pins instead of fixings to secure it. It has a black anodised finish, and features an optimised profile with ridged fins for high surface area and low mass.

 

Exhibiting versatility, a TO-220 package resistor may be fitted to either side of the heatsink as the thermal performance is the same for both mounting surfaces. Furthermore, two packages may be fitted, one each side, provided the total power dissipated does not exceed the rating of either. A TO-247 package resistor can be fitted to the wider of the two mounting surfaces.

 

Microhm Electronics claims that its  heatsink offers a higher surface area, superior cooling performance and lower mass than key competing parts. According to the company, it is the lightest, most effective PCB mounted heatsink specifically designed for power resistors.