Jul. 15, 2025
High temperatures can have a significant impact on varistors, a key component in electronic devices, especially as temperatures approach 40°C. Electronic devices, like people, can “overheat,” and varistors are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures. But what exactly is a varistor? Let's take a closer look.
What is a Varistor?
A varistor is a special type of resistor that adjusts its resistance according to voltage changes. It acts as a “gatekeeper” for electronic devices, not conducting electricity under normal voltage conditions but absorbing excess voltage when it becomes too high, thereby preventing damage to the circuit.
Advantages of Varistors
Varistors have many benefits: they are high-voltage resistant, can handle large currents, react quickly, resist current surges, and have low leakage currents. Because of these advantages, they are widely used in home appliances, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment, such as microwaves and air conditioners.
Impact of High Temperature on Varistors
Varistors typically operate within a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. When temperatures exceed this range, their effectiveness diminishes. As the temperature rises, the impact becomes more noticeable.
Accelerated Material Aging: High temperatures accelerate the aging of the varistor's internal materials, leading to increased leakage current, reduced varistor voltage, and an increased risk of circuit short circuits.
Reduced Performance and Increased Risks: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can deform or even melt the varistor's internal structure, leading to potential short circuits and fire hazards. For example, when the varistor’s voltage tolerance decreases, it may become shorted or damaged.
Shortened Lifespan: High temperatures significantly shorten the varistor's lifespan. While a varistor can typically work for 1,000 hours under normal conditions, its operating time will drastically decrease, and its performance will suffer if exposed to high temperatures frequently.
How to Ensure Proper Functioning of Varistors
To ensure varistors provide optimal protection for electronic devices, it is essential to keep them within their recommended operating temperature range. This not only extends the lifespan of devices but also ensures their safe operation in high-temperature environments.
This article is provided by JYH HSU (JEC) Electronics. JEC is a research, development, production, and sales-oriented company specializing in manufacturing and selling various electronic components such as capacitors and resistors.
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