Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5KE18-E3/73
- Part No.:
- 1.5KE18-E3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1.5KE18-E3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC 1.5KE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
1.5KE18-E3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 17.1 V to 18.9 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 15.3 V maximum standoff voltage (VWM), 25.2 V clamping voltage (VC) at 59.5 A peak pulse current, and 1500 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to safeguard MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor interfaces against inductive switching transients and ESD in industrial and automotive systems.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5KE18-E3/73 datasheet, 1.5KE18-E3/73 pinout, 1.5KE18-E3/73 application, or 1.5KE18-E3/73 equivalent, this device is evaluated for robust transient suppression in 24 V DC power distribution, automotive body control modules, and RS-485 interface protection where fast response (<1 ns), low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.48), and AEC-Q101-compatibility (in HE3 variants) are critical selection criteria.
Technical Context
This TVS operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, delivering bidirectional-capable clamping action only in CA-suffix variants - the 1.5KE18-E3/73 is unidirectional, with cathode marked by color band. Its clamping behavior follows standardized 10/1000 µs surge testing per IEC 61000-4-5, exhibiting low incremental surge resistance and stable thermal performance up to 175 °C junction temperature.
It is rated for 200 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM) and maintains 3.5 V max forward voltage at 100 A, enabling integration into high-current DC supply paths without significant conduction loss during fault events. The device's 75 °C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance supports operation on standard PCB copper without heatsinking under typical pulse duty cycles.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1 mA - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for reliable overvoltage triggering |
| VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before leakage exceeds 1 µA |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 59.5 A - clamped voltage seen by protected circuit during full 1500 W transient |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak surge power handling capability with 10/1000 µs waveform, validated per R.E.A. standards |
| IFSM | 200 A - single half-sine surge current rating (8.3 ms), supporting motor driver and solenoid interface protection |
| TJ max | 175 °C - enables use in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures without derating |
| RθJA | 75 °C/W - thermal resistance allows direct mounting on 1 oz. copper with minimal trace area for cost-effective layout |
Pinout & Package
Package: Case Style 1.5KE - molded epoxy DO-201AD package with matte tin-plated leads, UL 94 V-0 rated, RoHS compliant (E3 suffix), and qualified per JESD 201 Class 1A whisker test.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Low-side reference node | Connected to ground or low-voltage rail; forms current path during reverse-biased clamping |
| Cathode (banded end) | High-side transient input | Connected to protected line (e.g., 24 V supply); avalanche conduction occurs when VAK > VBR |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass-passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance (±5 %) and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity stress |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 surges (4 kV/2 Ω) on 24 V systems without degradation |
| Clamping time <1 ns | Responds faster than MOVs or polymer-based protectors, preserving signal integrity in high-speed interfaces |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during fast-rising transients (e.g., ISO 7637-2 pulse 1/2a), reducing stress on downstream FETs |
| Solderability per J-STD-002/JESD 22-B102 | Supports lead-free reflow and wave soldering with no voiding or dewetting on production lines |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Industrial PLC Digital Input |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting microcontroller GPIOs and level-shifters from load dump (ISO 16750-2) and alternator ripple in BCM power domains. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional shunt clamp placed between 12 V rail and ground, conducting only during overvoltage events. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤25.2 V during 100 V/50 ms load dump, preventing latch-up in 3.3 V logic supplies fed via LDOs. | Use Scenario: Safeguarding 24 V digital input circuits in programmable logic controllers exposed to relay coil flyback and field wiring surges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary front-end suppressor mounted directly at terminal block entry point, upstream of optocoupler input stage. Use Value: Clamps 1 kV/500 A transients (10/1000 µs) to 25.2 V within 1 ns, eliminating false triggering and extending optocoupler lifetime. |
| RS-485 Communication Port | DC Motor Driver Power Stage |
Use Scenario: Shielding half-duplex RS-485 transceivers (e.g., SN65HVD230) from ESD and cable-induced lightning surges in factory automation networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Paired unidirectional TVS on both A and B lines referenced to common ground, with low capacitance (<100 pF). Use Value: Maintains signal edge fidelity (no distortion up to 10 Mbps) while suppressing ±15 kV contact ESD per IEC 61000-4-2. | Use Scenario: Suppressing inductive kickback from brushed DC motors switched by N-channel MOSFET H-bridges in robotic actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-mounted across motor terminals to clamp flyback voltage before it reaches MOSFET drain-source junction. Use Value: Limits VDS stress to 25.2 V during 200 A turn-off events, avoiding avalanche failure and enabling use of 30 V-rated MOSFETs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A | Lower PPPM (600 W), smaller SMB package (vs. DO-201AD), VC = 29.2 V @ 20.9 A | Better suited for space-constrained PCBs with lower energy threats (IEC 61000-4-2 only) | Select when board area is critical and surge threat level is ≤600 W; verify thermal margin due to higher RθJA |
| 1.5KE18AHE3_B | Same electrical specs, but AEC-Q101 qualified and HE3 whisker-tested (Class 2), revision-coded "B" | Required for automotive OEM production where qualification evidence and traceability are mandatory | Choose for automotive Tier-1 designs needing documented qualification; not drop-in due to different suffix and packaging |
Compared with 1.5KE18-E3/73, SMBJ18A trades peak power and thermal robustness for compactness, while 1.5KE18AHE3_B delivers identical protection performance with certified automotive reliability - neither is pin-compatible due to differing package footprints and reel packaging, requiring layout or documentation updates.
Availability
1.5KE18-E3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC I/O protection, and DC motor drive design requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for 1.5KE18-E3/73 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Vishay General Semiconductor is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in diodes, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, precision, and application-specific validation.
The 1.5KE series was engineered for high-energy transient suppression in harsh environments - targeting automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where sustained 1500 W surge handling and 175 °C operation are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the breakdown voltage range of the 1.5KE18-E3/73?
The 1.5KE18-E3/73 has a guaranteed breakdown voltage (VBR) range of 17.1 V to 18.9 V at a test current of 1 mA, measured per JEDEC standard. This tight ±5 % tolerance ensures consistent clamping onset across production lots and supports precise overvoltage margining in 24 V system designs. The 1.5KE18-E3/73 achieves this using a glass-passivated silicon junction optimized for stability under thermal and electrical stress.
Is the 1.5KE18-E3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
The 1.5KE18-E3/73 is RoHS-compliant and rated for operation from –55 °C to +175 °C, making it technically capable for under-hood use. However, it is not AEC-Q101 qualified - that status applies only to HE3-suffix variants like 1.5KE18AHE3_B. For production automotive systems requiring formal qualification, the 1.5KE18-E3/73 must be validated per customer requirements; the 1.5KE18-E3/73 remains appropriate for prototyping, aftermarket, or non-safety-critical subsystems.
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5KE18-E3/73 at its rated peak pulse current?
The 1.5KE18-E3/73 clamps to a maximum of 25.2 V at its rated peak pulse current (IPPM) of 59.5 A, defined by the 10/1000 µs waveform. This value reflects worst-case VC under full 1500 W surge conditions and is critical for ensuring downstream components (e.g., 30 V MOSFETs or 28 V LDOs) remain within safe operating area. The 1.5KE18-E3/73 achieves this with low incremental surge resistance and fast avalanche response.
Does the 1.5KE18-E3/73 have bidirectional capability?
No, the 1.5KE18-E3/73 is a unidirectional TVS diode - it conducts only when the cathode is positive relative to the anode, with polarity indicated by a color band on the cathode end. Bidirectional variants carry a "CA" suffix (e.g., 1.5KE18CA). Using the 1.5KE18-E3/73 in AC or floating-line applications requires external circuitry; the 1.5KE18-E3/73 is intended for DC rail protection with defined ground reference.
What package type does the 1.5KE18-E3/73 use, and what are its key mechanical properties?
The 1.5KE18-E3/73 uses the DO-201AD package (Case Style 1.5KE), featuring a molded epoxy body over a passivated junction, UL 94 V-0 flammability rating, and matte tin-plated leads compliant with J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Its 0.375" (9.5 mm) lead length supports manual and automated assembly, and the 1.5KE18-E3/73 meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker testing for high-reliability applications.
1.5KE18-E3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-201AA, DO-27, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 14.5V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 16.2V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 26.5V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 56.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 1.5KE
1.5KE18-E3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5KE18-E3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5KE18-E3/73 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 1.5KE18-E3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5KE18-E3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5KE18-E3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5KE18-E3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5KE18-E3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5KE18-E3/73?
1.5KE18-E3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5KE18-E3/73 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 1.5KE18-E3/73?
For technical support, including 1.5KE18-E3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5KE18-E3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5KE18-E3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5KE18-E3/73 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 1.5KE18-E3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5KE18-E3/73?
All 1.5KE18-E3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5KE18-E3/73, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 1.5KE18-E3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5KE18-E3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5KE18-E3/73 Tags

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