IEC 60384-23:2015

Overview

IEC 60384-23:2015 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the specifications for fixed metallized polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) film dielectric surface mount direct current (d.c.) capacitors used in electronic equipment. This standard applies specifically to fixed surface mount capacitors with metallized electrodes and a PEN dielectric, designed for mounting directly onto hybrid circuit substrates or printed circuit boards (PCBs). These capacitors have metallized connecting pads or soldering strips and may exhibit self-healing properties depending on use conditions. The capacitors covered by IEC 60384-23:2015 are primarily intended for applications where the alternating current (a.c.) component voltage is relatively small compared to the rated voltage.

The standard ensures that these capacitors meet stringent quality requirements and technical criteria, facilitating interoperability and reliable electronic equipment manufacturing.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  Covers fixed surface mount PEN film capacitors suitable for d.c. use in electronic circuits with metallized electrodes. Focuses on components with reliable electrical characteristics for low a.c. ripple voltage environments.

• Ratings and Characteristics
  Includes nominal capacitance values, rated voltage, category voltage, temperature ratings, and tolerance on capacitance to ensure performance consistency. Preferred climatic categories and component performance data are standardized.

• Quality Assessment
  Defines procedures for manufacturing quality assurance, including qualification approval, lot-by-lot inspection, and periodic testing to maintain product reliability and durability.

• Test Methods
  Detailed testing protocols for electrical characteristics such as:

  • Voltage proof and insulation resistance
  • Capacitance and tangent of loss angle (tan δ)
  • Shear test and substrate bending resistance
  • Resistance to soldering heat and solderability
  • Climatic sequences including damp heat and rapid temperature changes
  • Endurance tests and charge/discharge durability Additional tests cover component solvent resistance and marking solvent resistance if required.

• Marking and Identification
  Clear guidelines on capacitor marking and packaging to ensure traceability and compliance with international identification standards.

• Harmonization and Revisions
  Updated to align with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2:2011 (sixth edition) and to harmonize content with similar international standards, preventing duplication and contradictions.

Applications

IEC 60384-23:2015 capacitors are ideal for use in:

• Surface mount electronic circuits in consumer electronics, industrial devices, and telecommunications equipment.
• Printed circuit boards (PCBs) and hybrid circuits requiring compact, reliable fixed capacitors.
• Electronic designs where low a.c. voltage ripple relative to rated d.c. voltage is critical, such as in filtering, coupling, and smoothing applications.
• Applications demanding high-quality film capacitors with stable electrical characteristics under varying environmental conditions and temperature ranges.
• Assemblies necessitating components with potentially self-healing metallized films to improve longevity and performance reliability.

Related Standards

• IEC 60384 series - General standards for fixed capacitors for use in electronic equipment, covering different dielectric types and capacitor configurations.
• ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2:2011 - Framework governing the structure and drafting of international standards including IEC 60384-23.
• Other metallized film capacitor standards - Specifications for metallized polypropylene and polyester film capacitors used in similar electronic applications.
• Surface Mount Device (SMD) standards - Various international standards governing surface mount components to ensure compatibility and performance in SMD technology.

Keywords: IEC 60384-23, polyethylene naphthalate film capacitors, fixed surface mount capacitors, metallized film capacitors, d.c. capacitors, electronic equipment capacitors, IEC standards, capacitor testing, quality assessment, electronic component specifications, solderability, electrical insulation, capacitor endurance.