What is the BTA16-600BW AC allowable voltage size?

[DIGIPRESSURE]

I drive an AC motor with a triac.
AC is a differential voltage, and the differential voltage of 220VAC is 440VAC.
Then, what size voltage can be used when using the BTA16-600BW model?
220VAC?? Is 380, 440VAC also possible?

[Peter BENSCH]

Please do not confuse the voltage indication on the TRIACs (VDRM = Repetitive peak off-state voltage) with the AC voltage to be controlled. The term differential voltage also comes from a different field and is more commonly used for differential signalling.

Some important terms of the data sheets of TRIACs and SCRs are discussed in AN2703.

Further important basics can be found, for example, in AN4363, section 2.1, where it is explained once again how the VDRM is to be seen in connection with the AC voltage to be switched/controlled.

Summary:

• if you want to control 220/230V, 600V TRIACs are usually sufficient; for motor applications because of the BEMF (see AN4363, section 2.2), 800V TRIACs are usually used.
• BTA16-600BW can therefore only be used for non-inductive loads with 220/230V, for inductive loads such as motors this TRIAC is usually not sufficient.
• if you want to control non-inductive loads at 380V AC, 800V TRIACs might be sufficient, for 440V AC you will have to consider devices with 1200V.

Special attention must be paid to requirements and parameters such as possible overvoltages, motor applications (=inductive loads) and BEMF or even three-phase applications. Therefore, please have a close look at the application notes mentioned so that you can make the right decision.

Hope that helps?

Regards
/Peter