IEC 60384-2:2021

Overview

IEC 60384-2:2021 is the IEC sectional specification for fixed metallized polyethylene‑terephthalate (PET) film dielectric DC capacitors used in electronic equipment. It applies to metallized‑electrode capacitors for direct current where the AC component is small relative to the rated voltage. The standard defines preferred ratings, characteristics, required tests, measuring methods and quality assessment procedures for these DC capacitors. Two performance grades are specified: Grade 1 (long‑life) and Grade 2 (general application). Note: EMI suppression capacitors and surface‑mount PET DC capacitors are excluded (see IEC 60384‑14 and IEC 60384‑19).

Key topics and technical requirements

• Preferred ratings and characteristics: nominal capacitance, tolerances, rated and category voltages, and rated temperature ranges are prescribed to promote interchangeability.
• Performance grades: requirements differ for Grade 1 (long life) and Grade 2 (general use), guiding selection for reliability‑critical designs.
• Electrical tests and measurements:
  • Visual examination and dimensional checks
  • Voltage proof (dielectric strength)
  • Capacitance measurement and tolerance verification
  • Tangent of loss angle (tan δ) - dissipation factor limits
  • Insulation resistance and leakage criteria
• Mechanical and environmental tests:
  • Robustness of terminations, solderability and resistance to soldering heat
  • Vibration, shock and bump tests
  • Rapid temperature change, climatic sequence, damp heat and endurance tests
• Special behaviours: the document recognizes self‑healing properties of metallized PET capacitors and sets test regimens accordingly.
• Quality assessment: selects applicable procedures from IEC 60384‑1 and defines lot‑by‑lot, periodic and qualification approval testing; detail specifications may require equal or higher severities.

Practical applications and users

Who benefits from IEC 60384‑2:2021:

• Capacitor manufacturers - to design, rate and test metallized PET DC capacitors for market compliance.
• Electronic component engineers and designers - to select appropriate Grade 1 or Grade 2 capacitors for power supplies, filters and DC coupling where low AC ripple is present.
• Test laboratories and quality managers - to perform the standardized electrical, mechanical and climatic tests and to implement quality conformance inspection plans.
• Procurement and compliance teams - to specify verified ratings and test requirements in purchase and detail specifications.

Typical applications: DC filtering, decoupling and energy storage in consumer electronics, industrial controls and other equipment where PET film DC capacitors’ self‑healing and stability are advantageous.

Related standards

• IEC 60384‑1 - General common specification and quality assessment procedures referenced by this sectional standard.
• IEC 60384‑14 - Capacitors for electromagnetic interference suppression.
• IEC 60384‑19 - Surface‑mount fixed metallized PET film dielectric DC capacitors.

For full test details, tables and formal requirements obtain IEC 60384‑2:2021 from the IEC Webstore or your national IEC member committee.