Resistors Have High Thermal Conductivity

A new process for printing thick-film resistor circuits directly onto aluminum heatsinks is said to deliver higher thermal conductivity and lower operating temperatures in a wide variety of high power applications. The new technology results in circuits with enhanced performance for fan speed controls in HVAC applications, dashlight dimmer elements, and other similar uses. According to the company, aluminum substrates offer several advantages over ceramic, particularly power handling capabilities and ruggedness, thus ensuring more reliable operation.Typical pricing for the resistor-on-aluminum units starts at $2 to $4 each/100,000, depending on the specific design.