Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division GBU6G-E3/51

Overview

GBU6G-E3/51 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a glass passivated single-phase bridge rectifier with 400 V maximum repetitive peak reverse voltage (VRRM), 6.0 A average forward output current (IF(AV)), and 175 A peak forward surge current (IFSM). It features 1.0 V forward voltage drop at 6.0 A, 5 μA reverse leakage at 25 °C, and is housed in the GBU case style for PCB mounting in AC/DC power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the GBU6G-E3/51 datasheet, GBU6G-E3/51 pinout, GBU6G-E3/51 application, or GBU6G-E3/51 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 400 V blocking rating, thermal resistance (RθJA = 20 °C/W), UL E54214 recognition, 1500 VRMS dielectric strength, and RoHS-compliant matte tin-plated leads suitable for J-STD-002 soldering.

Technical Context

The GBU6G-E3/51 implements a standard full-wave bridge configuration with four silicon diodes arranged in a single-phase in-line package. Its glass passivation ensures stable junction performance under thermal cycling and humidity exposure.

Designed for PCB-level integration without heatsink dependency, it supports 3.8 A average forward current at 40 °C ambient (PCB-mounted) and 6.0 A at 90 °C case temperature (heatsink-mounted), with thermal resistance RθJC = 2.5 °C/W enabling efficient heat transfer to external metal surfaces.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: GBU case style - molded plastic body with in-line terminal configuration, UL 94 V-0 flammability rating, 0.720–0.740 inch (18.3–18.8 mm) length, 0.290–0.310 inch (7.4–7.9 mm) width, and 0.140–0.160 inch (3.5–4.1 mm) height. Polarity marked on body: beveled corner indicates positive output lead.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bridge rectifier applications.

Compared with GBU6J-E3/51 and KBU6G, the GBU6G-E3/51 provides the optimal balance of 400 V blocking, UL safety certification, and PCB-mount thermal performance for certified consumer power supplies-without over-specifying voltage or sacrificing reliability.

Availability

GBU6G-E3/51 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for monitor power supplies, printer SMPS inputs, and audio equipment AC adapters requiring stable component supply, consistent RoHS compliance, and UL-recognized safety certification.

Supply support for GBU6G-E3/51 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, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and safety compliance.

The GBU series was engineered for high-volume, cost-sensitive AC/DC front-end applications demanding UL recognition, robust surge immunity, and proven thermal performance in compact PCB layouts.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating junction temperature for GBU6G-E3/51?

The GBU6G-E3/51 has a maximum operating junction temperature (TJ max.) of +150 °C, as specified in the Vishay datasheet. This rating allows sustained operation in high-temperature environments such as enclosed power supplies or thermally constrained consumer electronics. Derating curves confirm 6.0 A IF(AV) is maintainable up to 90 °C case temperature with heatsink mounting. The GBU6G-E3/51 must be operated within this thermal limit to ensure long-term reliability and avoid parametric drift or premature failure.

Is GBU6G-E3/51 RoHS-compliant and halogen-free?

Yes, the GBU6G-E3/51 is RoHS-compliant per EU Directive 2011/65/EU, indicated by the "E3" suffix. It meets JESD 201 Class 1A whisker test requirements and uses matte tin-plated leads. However, it is not halogen-free; the "M3" suffix denotes halogen-free variants (e.g., GBU6G-M3/51). The GBU6G-E3/51 contains brominated flame retardants in its UL 94 V-0 molding compound, consistent with commercial-grade specifications outlined in Vishay Document 88615.

What is the recommended soldering profile for GBU6G-E3/51?

The GBU6G-E3/51 supports solder dip at 275 °C maximum for 10 seconds per JESD 22-B106, and is compatible with standard reflow and wave soldering processes per J-STD-002. Lead finish is matte tin, ensuring reliable wetting. For PCB assembly, Vishay recommends maintaining peak board temperature below 260 °C and limiting time above 217 °C to ≤60 seconds in reflow. The GBU6G-E3/51's thermal design accommodates these profiles without delamination or parameter shift.

Does GBU6G-E3/51 require a heatsink in typical applications?

The GBU6G-E3/51 does not require a heatsink in most applications when mounted on a PCB with 12 mm × 12 mm copper pads and 9.5 mm lead length, supporting up to 3.8 A IF(AV) at 40 °C ambient. However, for continuous 6.0 A operation, Vishay specifies case temperature (TC) must be held at ≤90 °C-achievable only with aluminum plate heatsink mounting and thermal compound. The GBU6G-E3/51's RθJC = 2.5 °C/W enables effective heatsink coupling, but PCB-only use is sufficient for <4 A average loads.

How does the GBU6G-E3/51 compare to GBU6D-E3/51 in terms of voltage rating?

The GBU6G-E3/51 has a 400 V maximum repetitive peak reverse voltage (VRRM), while the GBU6D-E3/51 is rated for 200 V VRRM. Both share identical IF(AV) = 6.0 A, IFSM = 175 A, VF = 1.0 V, and GBU package. The GBU6G-E3/51 is selected for 230 VAC mains applications with surge margin, whereas GBU6D-E3/51 suits 115 VAC systems or low-voltage DC-fed inverters. Substituting GBU6D-E3/51 for GBU6G-E3/51 in 230 VAC designs risks reverse breakdown and catastrophic failure.