The KEMET Automotive Grade Flexible Termination (FT-CAP) multilayer ceramic capacitor in X7R dielectric incorporates a unique, flexible termination system that is integrated with KEMET’s standard termination materials. A conductive silver epoxy is utilized between the base metal and nickel barrier layers of KEMET’s standard termination system in order to establish pliability while maintaining terminal strength, solderability and electrical performance. This technology was developed in order to address the primary failure mode of MLCCs – flex cracks, which are typically the result of excessive tensile and shear stresses produced during board flexure and thermal cycling. Flexible termination technology inhibits the transfer of board stress to the rigid ceramic body, therefore mitigating flex cracks which can result in low IR or short circuit failures.
Although this technology does not eliminate the potential for mechanical damage that may propagate during extreme environmental and handling conditions, it does provide superior flex performance over standard termination systems. FT-CAP complements KEMET’s Open Mode, Floating Electrode (FE-CAP), Floating Electrode with Flexible Termination (FF-CAP) and KEMET Power Solutions (KPS) product lines by providing a complete portfolio of flex mitigation solutions.