Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE18-E3/54
- Part No.:
- P6KE18-E3/54
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE18-E3/54.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,351
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Product details
Overview
P6KE18-E3/54 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection of DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 17.1 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 15.3 V standoff voltage (VWM), 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage at 23.8 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and operates across -55 °C to +175 °C junction temperature range - deployed in automotive body control modules and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE18-E3/54 datasheet, P6KE18-E3/54 pinout, P6KE18-E3/54 application, or P6KE18-E3/54 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping voltage margin vs. protected IC's absolute maximum rating, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), RoHS-compliant DO-15 package compatibility with wave-soldering, and AEC-Q101 qualification status for automotive use cases.
Technical Context
The P6KE18-E3/54 implements an avalanche breakdown mechanism in a glass-passivated silicon junction, enabling sub-nanosecond response to ESD and lightning-induced transients. Its unidirectional polarity requires cathode-band orientation toward the protected line's positive rail, and it conducts only during reverse overvoltage events - not during normal forward bias.
Clamping performance is defined at 23.8 A IPPM (10/1000 µs waveform), delivering 25.2 V VC while maintaining low incremental surge resistance. Thermal derating follows a linear curve above 25 °C ambient, with full 5.0 W power dissipation rated only at TL = 75 °C on infinite heatsink per Figure 5.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM | 15.3 V - Maximum continuous DC or RMS voltage the device blocks without leakage exceeding 1.0 µA; sets upper limit for safe operation on 12 V nominal systems. |
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1.0 mA - Confirmed avalanche onset range; ensures reliable triggering before downstream IC damage thresholds (e.g., 20 V abs max). |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 23.8 A - Clamped voltage during worst-case 600 W transient; must be below protected circuit's survival limit. |
| PPPM | 600 W - Peak pulse power handling per 10/1000 µs standard waveform; validates robustness against ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a surges. |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - Junction-to-lead thermal resistance; enables accurate PCB copper pour sizing for thermal management in high-reliability designs. |
| TJ max | +175 °C - Maximum junction temperature; supports under-hood automotive placement without derating penalties up to 150 °C ambient. |
| Package | DO-204AC (DO-15) - Standard axial-leaded through-hole package; compatible with legacy wave-solder processes and manual rework. |
Pinout & Package
DO-204AC (DO-15) package: axial-leaded, molded epoxy case with matte tin-plated leads; cathode identified by color band on one end; no marking on bi-directional variants (not applicable to P6KE18-E3/54).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward-biased terminal during normal operation | Connected to system ground or lower-potential rail; remains non-conductive below VWM. |
| Cathode | Reverse-biased terminal during transient suppression | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V supply); avalanche conduction occurs here when VLINE exceeds VBR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Glass passivated chip junction | Enables stable, repeatable avalanche characteristics over 1000+ transient events without parameter drift. |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Meets ISO 7637-2 Level III surge immunity requirements for automotive 12 V systems without external heat sinking. |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood applications including temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and humidity testing. |
| RoHS-compliant (E3 suffix) | Meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU; lead-free matte tin plating ensures solderability per J-STD-002 and whisker resistance Class 1A. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.42) | Minimizes let-through energy during transients, reducing stress on downstream TVS stages or protected ICs. |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Industrial PLC Digital Input Card |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller GPIO and CAN transceiver power pins from load dump and inductive switching spikes in vehicle door modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device on 12 V supply rail; absorbs >95 % of 600 W surge energy before voltage exceeds 25.2 V. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or permanent damage to 3.3 V/5 V logic ICs by limiting rail excursion to safe levels during ISO 16750-2 Pulse 5a events. |
Use Scenario: Shields 24 V digital input optocoupler front-end from field-wiring induced surges in factory automation cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: First-line defense against 1 kV/500 A lightning-induced transients on dry-contact inputs. Use Value: Enables direct connection to unshielded field wiring without additional RC filtering, reducing BOM count and board space. |
| Consumer Appliance Motor Drive Board | Telecom Power Supply Front-End |
Use Scenario: Safeguards MCU reset line and motor driver enable signals from back-EMF spikes generated by brushed DC motors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt clamp on low-current control lines; triggers within <1 ns of overvoltage onset. Use Value: Eliminates false resets and erratic motor behavior during frequent start-stop cycles in washing machines and HVAC blowers. |
Use Scenario: Suppresses AC line surges coupled into 48 V telecom rectifier output rails via transformer leakage inductance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-level protection after MOV-based primary stage; handles residual fast-rising edge transients. Use Value: Extends lifetime of DC-DC converters by limiting voltage overshoot to ≤25.2 V during combined lightning + switching surge events. |
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 | DO-214AA (SMB) surface-mount package; same VWM (15.3 V), slightly higher VC (29.2 V @ 20.9 A); 600 W rating retained. | Requires SMT reflow process; unsuitable for through-hole legacy boards or manual repair. | Select SMBJ18A only when board space constraints mandate SMT or automated assembly is required. |
| 1.5KE18A | Higher 1.5 kW peak power rating; larger DO-201AD (DO-27) package; identical VWM/VBR/VC specs; same AEC-Q101 qualification. | Used where multi-pulse surge endurance or higher single-event energy absorption is mandated (e.g., railway traction control). | Choose 1.5KE18A when system-level testing reveals P6KE18-E3/54 clamping margin is insufficient under repetitive surge conditions. |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5KE18A, the P6KE18-E3/54 offers optimal balance of cost, through-hole manufacturability, and validated automotive reliability in compact DO-15 form - making it preferred for cost-sensitive BCM and industrial I/O designs where 600 W single-pulse capability suffices.
Availability
P6KE18-E3/54 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial programmable logic controllers, and consumer appliance motor control systems requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for P6KE18-E3/54 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, MOSFETs, optoelectronics, and passive components with emphasis on reliability and automotive-grade qualification.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TRANSZORB® TVS portfolio, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in commercial and automotive environments where space and thermal constraints exist.
FAQ
What is the maximum clamping voltage of the P6KE18-E3/54 under standard test conditions?
The P6KE18-E3/54 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V when subjected to its rated 23.8 A peak pulse current (IPPM) using the 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on the protected circuit during worst-case transient events. The P6KE18-E3/54 maintains this clamping performance consistently due to its glass-passivated junction structure.
Is the P6KE18-E3/54 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE18-E3/54 is AEC-Q101 qualified and explicitly rated for automotive use, including under-hood environments. Its -55 °C to +175 °C operating junction temperature range, robust surge handling (600 W, 10/1000 µs), and RoHS-compliant construction meet stringent automotive reliability requirements. The P6KE18-E3/54 is commonly deployed in body control modules, lighting drivers, and sensor interface circuits across Tier 1 supplier designs.
How does the P6KE18-E3/54 differ from bi-directional TVS diodes like P6KE18CA?
The P6KE18-E3/54 is unidirectional and features a cathode band for polarity-specific installation on positive-rail protection paths; it blocks forward current but clamps only reverse overvoltages. In contrast, P6KE18CA is bi-directional, symmetrically clamping both positive and negative transients - used in AC-coupled or floating signal lines. The P6KE18-E3/54 offers lower leakage and tighter VBR tolerance than its CA counterpart, making it preferable for DC power rail protection.
What is the thermal resistance specification for the P6KE18-E3/54?
The P6KE18-E3/54 has a typical junction-to-lead thermal resistance (RθJL) of 20 °C/W, measured under standard test conditions. This parameter enables precise calculation of junction temperature rise during sustained power dissipation or repetitive surge events. For example, at 23.8 A IPPM, the instantaneous power pulse results in minimal thermal accumulation, but RθJL becomes critical when evaluating steady-state leakage or multiple surges in quick succession. The P6KE18-E3/54 relies on PCB copper pour and lead thermal mass for effective heat transfer.
Can the P6KE18-E3/54 replace older P6KE18A variants without design changes?
Yes, the P6KE18-E3/54 is a direct replacement for legacy P6KE18A parts, retaining identical electrical specifications, DO-15 package dimensions, and pinout. The "E3" suffix indicates RoHS compliance and JESD201 Class 1A whisker resistance, while "/54" denotes 13-inch paper tape and reel packaging (4000 units per reel). No PCB layout or schematic modifications are needed when upgrading to P6KE18-E3/54, and the P6KE18-E3/54 maintains full compatibility with existing wave-soldering and manual assembly processes.
P6KE18-E3/54 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Series:
- TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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):
- 22.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- 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:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
P6KE18-E3/54 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE18-E3/54 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE18-E3/54 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 P6KE18-E3/54 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE18-E3/54 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE18-E3/54 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE18-E3/54?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE18-E3/54 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE18-E3/54?
P6KE18-E3/54 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE18-E3/54 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 P6KE18-E3/54?
For technical support, including P6KE18-E3/54 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE18-E3/54 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE18-E3/54 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE18-E3/54 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 P6KE18-E3/54 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE18-E3/54?
All P6KE18-E3/54 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE18-E3/54, 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 P6KE18-E3/54 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE18-E3/54:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
P6KE18-E3/54 Tags

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