BT137 Triac Technical Summary

Overview

The BT137 is a glass passivated triac designed for general-purpose switching and phase control applications. It is housed in a robust plastic package, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial and consumer electronics. The BT137 is known for its high reliability, excellent thermal performance, and ability to handle significant current loads, making it a popular choice for AC power control.

Features

• High Current Capability: The BT137 can handle high surge currents, making it ideal for demanding applications.
• Glass Passivation: Provides enhanced reliability and protection against environmental factors.
• Plastic Package: Ensures durability and ease of mounting in various circuit designs.
• Low Holding Current: Facilitates efficient switching and reduces power loss.
• High Commutation (dv/dt): Ensures robust performance in noisy electrical environments.
• Planar Passivated: Enhances thermal and electrical stability.

Applications

The BT137 triac is widely used in various applications requiring AC power control. Below are some common use cases:

• Lighting Control: Dimmer switches and lighting regulators.
• Motor Speed Control: Used in fan controllers and small appliance motor controls.
• Heating Control: Integral part of electric stove regulators and heating element controllers.
• AC Power Switching: Relays and solid-state switches in industrial equipment.
• Consumer Electronics: Found in devices like washing machines, vacuum cleaners, and power tools.

Electrical Characteristics

The following table summarizes the key electrical characteristics of the BT137 triac under standard operating conditions:

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Repetitive Peak Off-State Voltage (V_DRM): Up to 600V
• RMS On-State Current (I_T(RMS)): 8A
• Non-Repetitive Peak On-State Current (I_TSM): 80A
• Gate Trigger Current (I_GT): 5mA to 35mA
• Gate Trigger Voltage (V_GT): 1.5V max
• Critical Rate of Rise of Off-State Voltage (dv/dt): 50V/µs min

Thermal Characteristics

• Junction Temperature (T_j): -40°C to +125°C
• Storage Temperature (T_stg): -40°C to +150°C
• Thermal Resistance Junction to Ambient (R_thJA): 70°C/W

Package Information

The BT137 is available in a TO-220AB package, which is widely used for power semiconductor devices due to its excellent thermal and electrical properties.

TO-220AB Package Dimensions

• Length: 10.4mm
• Width: 4.6mm
• Height: 15.9mm
• Lead Pitch: 2.54mm
• Mounting Hole Diameter: 3.5mm

The TO-220AB package features a metal tab that allows for efficient heat dissipation when mounted on a heatsink, ensuring optimal performance in high-power applications.

Conclusion

The BT137 triac is a versatile and reliable component suitable for a wide range of AC power control applications. Its robust design, high current handling capability, and excellent thermal performance make it a preferred choice for engineers and designers working on industrial, commercial, and consumer electronics. Whether used in lighting controls, motor speed regulation, or heating systems, the BT137 delivers consistent and efficient performance.