Stackpole Updates Anti-Corrosive, Anti-Sulfur Resistors for Harsh Environments
The RNCS-AS series of thin-film chip resistors features anti-corrosive and anti-sulfur protection for demanding applications while supporting tolerances down to ±0.05% and TCRs down to ±10 ppm/°C.
Circuit longevity and reliability in modern electronic systems are often limited by harsh operating environments and the interaction between component materials. Common atmospheric contaminants, such as sulfur-containing gases, can react with the internal silver electrode materials of standard chip resistors, forming silver sulfide and causing catastrophic resistance shifts. To address this mechanism of failure, Stackpole Electronics has expanded its RNCS-AS series of thin-film chip resistors. This product line is specifically engineered as an anti-corrosive, anti-sulfur alternative to traditional tantalum nitride resistors.
Stackpole has expanded its RNCS-AS series of anti-corrosive, anti-sulfur thin-film chip resistors. Image used courtesy of Stackpole Electronics
The RNCS-AS Series Resistors
Stackpole’s RNCS-AS series employs a special manufacturing process and passivation to ensure ultra-stable performance, high precision, and long life in demanding environments. The “-AS” designation indicates the added anti-sulfur performance, which has been test-proven for immunity to sulfur per ASTM-B-809-95. In testing, the resistor demonstrated immunity to sulfur by holding a resistance change (ΔR) of less than ±1% after 750 hours at 105°C under the standard test method.
Precision and Environmental Specifications
The RNCS-AS series is built using a thin-film construction, allowing for highly stable electrical parameters. Precision specifications include standard tolerances down to ±0.05% and tight temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) options as low as ±10 ppm/°C. The operating temperature range spans from -55°C to 155°C.
Stackpole’s expansion of the line includes a broader range of chip sizes and resistance values. The RNCS-AS line now covers EIA sizes from the compact 0402 (0.063 W power rating) up to the 2512 package (0.5 W power rating). Resistance values range from 10 Ω up to 1.5 MΩ, depending on the size and tolerance code. The AEC-Q200 qualification further confirms the ruggedized design for use in high-reliability applications.
The RNCS-AS series is suitable for use in various applications where moisture and other atmospheric contaminants are a concern. Image used courtesy of Canva
Reliable Performance in Harsh Environments
The RNCS-AS thin-film chip resistor series provides a robust solution for mitigating the risks associated with sulfur and moisture corrosion in electronic assemblies through specialized passivation and construction. By combining anti-sulfur performance with high precision, the series meets the requirements for stable operation in corrosive and humid conditions. The expanded component availability, covering sizes 0402 through 2512, is pertinent for designing equipment for industrial monitoring and control, automotive systems, and telecommunications infrastructure, where atmospheric contaminants and high reliability are critical factors.
