Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P6KE18HE3/73
- Part No.:
- P6KE18HE3/73
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
P6KE18HE3/73.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 14.5VWM 26.5VC DO204AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,246
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Product details
Overview
P6KE18HE3/73 from Vishay General Semiconductor is a uni-directional Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode designed for primary overvoltage protection in DC power rails and signal lines. It features a 18 V breakdown voltage (VBR min/max = 17.1–18.9 V), 15.3 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 25.2 V clamping voltage at 23.8 A peak pulse current, 600 W peak pulse power rating (10/1000 µs), and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability - deployed in engine control units to protect microcontrollers from load-dump transients.
For engineers reviewing the P6KE18HE3/73 datasheet, P6KE18HE3/73 pinout, P6KE18HE3/73 application, or P6KE18HE3/73 equivalent, key selection criteria include clamping performance under 10/1000 µs surge, thermal resistance (RθJL = 20 °C/W), RoHS-compliant matte tin plating, and DO-204AC (DO-15) package compatibility with legacy through-hole PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The P6KE18HE3/73 operates as a silicon avalanche diode with glass-passivated junction, enabling sub-nanosecond response to ESD and lightning-induced transients. Its uni-directional polarity uses a cathode band marking, and it conducts only during reverse overvoltage events while remaining high-impedance under normal 15.3 V DC bias.
Clamping behavior is defined by a maximum 25.2 V voltage at 23.8 A (10/1000 µs), with low incremental surge resistance ensuring minimal voltage overshoot. Thermal derating follows a linear curve from 5.0 W at TL = 75 °C to zero at 175 °C junction temperature, supported by RθJA = 75 °C/W and RθJL = 20 °C/W.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VBR (min/max) | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at 1.0 mA test current - defines precise avalanche initiation threshold for repeatable protection triggering |
| VWM | 15.3 V - maximum continuous working voltage; ensures no conduction during nominal 12 V automotive rail operation |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 23.8 A (10/1000 µs) - clamping voltage seen by protected IC during worst-case surge, limiting stress on downstream components |
| PPPM | 600 W - peak transient energy absorption capability, sufficient for ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1 & 2a load-dump suppression |
| IFSM | 100 A (8.3 ms half-sine) - surge current handling without bond-wire fusing, critical for alternator load-dump survival |
| TJ max | 175 °C - extended junction temperature range enables under-hood deployment without derating penalties |
| RθJL | 20 °C/W - low junction-to-lead thermal resistance allows effective heat transfer to PCB copper pour or chassis mounting |
Pinout & Package
Package: DO-204AC (DO-15), axial-leaded, molded epoxy case meeting UL 94 V-0. Cathode indicated by color band; anode is unmarked lead.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (unmarked lead) | Forward current path / low-side reference | Connected to ground or low-voltage return; establishes reference for clamping action during reverse overvoltage |
| Cathode (banded lead) | Transient voltage sensing node | Connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail); avalanche conduction begins when voltage exceeds VBR relative to anode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including powertrain and body electronics per stress-test requirements |
| Glass passivated junction | Ensures stable VBR tolerance and long-term reliability under thermal cycling and humidity exposure |
| 600 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Withstands repetitive surges up to 0.01 % duty cycle without parameter shift or degradation |
| Matte tin plated leads | Solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102; meets JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance for HE3 suffix |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.33) | Minimizes overvoltage margin between trigger and clamp, reducing stress on protected MOSFETs and ICs |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 12 V battery-fed engine control module exposed to ISO 7637-2 load-dump pulses up to 60 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage clamp placed directly across input rail before DC/DC converter. Use Value: Limits rail voltage to ≤25.2 V during 23.8 A surge, preventing damage to 36 V-rated buck controller and MCU supply pins. |
Use Scenario: 24 V industrial PLC analog input channel connected to remote pressure sensor via 10 m cable. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Line-side TVS on each signal pair (V+, V−) to suppress induced lightning transients. Use Value: Clamps common-mode surges to <25.2 V within <1 ns, preserving ±10 V ADC input range and avoiding latch-up in op-amp front-end. |
| Consumer Power Adapter Input Stage | Telecom DC Feeder Protection |
|
Use Scenario: Secondary-side 12 V output of AC/DC adapter subjected to capacitor discharge ESD events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Uni-directional TVS from output rail to ground, positioned after bulk capacitor. Use Value: Absorbs 15 kV contact ESD (IEC 61000-4-2) with <25.2 V clamping, protecting USB-PD controller and load switch FET gate oxide. |
Use Scenario: -48 V DC power feed to remote radio unit in cellular base station cabinet. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reverse-polarity protection and surge clamp on -48 V input, cathode tied to supply rail. Use Value: Withstands 100 A surge (8.3 ms) without failure, maintaining uninterrupted power during lightning-induced grid transients. |
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 | Same VBR (18 V), but SMC (DO-214AB) surface-mount package; 600 W rating, slightly higher VC (29.2 V) | Requires PCB redesign for SMD layout; better suited for high-density consumer boards than through-hole automotive harnesses | Select SMBJ18A when space-constrained designs prioritize board area over manual assembly or serviceability |
| 1.5KE18A | Same DO-204AC package and VBR, but lower 1.5 kW rating; larger die, higher thermal mass, VC = 27.7 V at 54.3 A | Overqualified for 600 W needs; introduces unnecessary cost and size where P6KE18HE3/73's AEC-Q101 grade is mandatory | Choose 1.5KE18A only if system-level testing requires >600 W headroom or legacy 1.5 kW design reuse is required |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5KE18A, the P6KE18HE3/73 delivers optimal balance of AEC-Q101 compliance, DO-204AC through-hole manufacturability, and precise 25.2 V clamping - making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, high-reliability automotive and industrial through-hole assemblies where qualification and form factor are decisive.
Availability
P6KE18HE3/73 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power distribution modules, industrial sensor interface cards, and telecom DC feeder units requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for P6KE18HE3/73 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, efficiency, and qualification for harsh environments.
The P6KE series belongs to Vishay's TransZorb® TVS family, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-surge-capability overvoltage protection in automotive, industrial, and telecom infrastructure where AEC-Q101 validation and DO-204AC compatibility are essential.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the P6KE18HE3/73 under standard surge conditions?
The P6KE18HE3/73 exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V when subjected to its rated 23.8 A peak pulse current with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured at TA = 25 °C and represents the upper limit of voltage imposed on protected circuitry during transient events - a critical parameter verified per the Vishay datasheet revision 18-Sep-12, Document Number 88369. The P6KE18HE3/73 maintains this clamping performance across its full operating temperature range.
Is the P6KE18HE3/73 suitable for automotive applications?
Yes, the P6KE18HE3/73 is explicitly AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed in the Vishay datasheet footnote (page 3, Note 1) and mechanical data section. Its construction - including glass-passivated junction, matte tin-plated leads meeting JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance, and UL 94 V-0 molding compound - satisfies automotive reliability requirements for under-hood and body-control modules. The P6KE18HE3/73 is routinely deployed in engine control units and body electronics for load-dump and ESD protection.
What does the "HE3" suffix indicate in P6KE18HE3/73?
The "HE3" suffix in P6KE18HE3/73 denotes RoHS-compliant construction with AEC-Q101 qualification and JESD 201 Class 2 whisker resistance for the matte tin-plated leads. Per Vishay's ordering information table (page 3), "Base P/NHE3" identifies AEC-Q101 qualified commercial-grade parts, distinguishing them from "E3"-suffixed variants that meet only commercial-grade RoHS requirements. The "/73" indicates packaging in 73 mm tape-and-reel format per industry standard.
How does the P6KE18HE3/73 differ from the P6KE18A variant?
The P6KE18HE3/73 is the AEC-Q101 qualified, RoHS-compliant, tape-and-reel packaged version of the P6KE18A base device. While both share identical electrical characteristics - including VBR = 17.1–18.9 V, VWM = 15.3 V, and VC = 25.2 V - the P6KE18HE3/73 adds automotive-grade process validation, enhanced lead finish reliability (JESD 201 Class 2), and standardized reel packaging. The P6KE18A lacks formal AEC-Q101 certification and may be offered in bulk or alternate packaging formats.
What is the maximum operating temperature for the P6KE18HE3/73?
The P6KE18HE3/73 has a maximum junction temperature (TJ) of +175 °C and an operating junction/storage temperature range of –55 °C to +175 °C, as specified in the "Maximum Ratings" table (page 1). This wide range supports deployment in under-hood automotive environments and industrial enclosures without external heatsinking. Derating begins above TL = 75 °C per the power derating curve (Fig. 5), with full 5.0 W dissipation maintained only at lead temperature ≤75 °C.
P6KE18HE3/73 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AC, DO-15, 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):
- 22.6A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 600W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- -
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 175°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AC (DO-15)
P6KE18HE3/73 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P6KE18HE3/73 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P6KE18HE3/73 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 P6KE18HE3/73 reliable?
The price and inventory of P6KE18HE3/73 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P6KE18HE3/73 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P6KE18HE3/73?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P6KE18HE3/73 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P6KE18HE3/73?
P6KE18HE3/73 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P6KE18HE3/73 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 P6KE18HE3/73?
For technical support, including P6KE18HE3/73 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P6KE18HE3/73 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P6KE18HE3/73 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P6KE18HE3/73 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 P6KE18HE3/73 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P6KE18HE3/73?
All P6KE18HE3/73 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P6KE18HE3/73, 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 P6KE18HE3/73 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P6KE18HE3/73:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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