INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Y-Capacitor

Y-capacitor is a safety capacitor used in EMI filters to suppress common-mode interference by connecting between line/neutral and ground.

Component Specifications

Definition
A Y-capacitor, classified as a Class Y capacitor according to safety standards, is specifically designed for connection between live conductors (line/neutral) and ground in electrical circuits. It provides a low-impedance path for high-frequency common-mode noise to ground while maintaining electrical safety through reinforced insulation and self-healing properties. These capacitors are essential components in EMI filters for preventing electromagnetic interference from entering or exiting electronic equipment.
Working Principle
Y-capacitors work by providing a controlled capacitive coupling between the power lines and ground. They create a low-impedance path for high-frequency common-mode noise currents to flow safely to ground, while blocking lower frequency power currents. This differential filtering action suppresses electromagnetic interference without compromising electrical safety, as they are designed to fail open-circuit rather than short-circuit.
Materials
Metallized polypropylene or polyester film dielectric with self-healing properties, epoxy resin encapsulation, copper or tinned copper leads, flame-retardant plastic casing meeting UL94 V-0 rating.
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Capacitance Range1 nF – 47 nFCommon values: 1, 2.2, 4.7, 10, 22, 47 nF. Tolerance typically ±20% (M) or ±10% (K).IEC 60384-14
Tolerance±10% or ±20%Y-capacitors are not precision components; ±20% is common for Y2, ±10% for Y1.IEC 60384-14
Safety ClassY1 or Y2 classY1: rated AC 400V, peak 8kV impulse; Y2: rated AC 300V, peak 5kV impulse. Choose based on application.IEC 60384-14
Rated Voltage250 VAC or 400 VACY2 typically 250VAC, Y1 typically 400VAC. Must be rated for continuous AC line-to-ground use.IEC 60384-14
Temperature Range-40°C to +85°C (or +105°C for some) °COperating ambient temperature. Derating may apply above 85°C.IEC 60384-14
Dielectric StrengthY1: 4000 VAC for 60s; Y2: 1500 VAC for 60s VACTest voltage between terminals and case/ground. Higher for Y1 due to higher impulse rating.IEC 60384-14
Insulation Resistance≥ 10,000 MΩ (at 25°C, 100 VDC) Measured between terminals and case after 1 minute. Minimum value for safety.IEC 60384-14
Lead MaterialTinned copper or copper-clad steel materialLeads must be solderable and corrosion-resistant. Diameter typically 0.6–0.8 mm.
Case MaterialFlame-retardant plastic, UL94 V-0 ratingEpoxy resin encapsulation or plastic case. Must be flame-retardant to prevent fire spread.UL 94
Dielectric MaterialMetallized polypropylene (PP) or polyester (PET) materialSelf-healing properties. PP for higher stability, PET for higher capacitance density.
Capacitance Drift≤ 5% after 1000 hours at rated voltage and upper temperature %Long-term stability under load. Check datasheet for specific test conditions.IEC 60384-14
Dissipation Factor≤ 0.1% at 1 kHz, 25°C %Low DF indicates low losses. For PP typically <0.1%, PET <1%.IEC 60384-14
Ambient temperature-40°C to +85°C (up to +105°C for some)Outside this window: Exceeding upper limit accelerates aging and may cause capacitance drift or dielectric breakdown. Below lower limit may cause cracking of encapsulation.
AC voltage (line-to-ground)Up to rated voltage (250VAC for Y2, 400VAC for Y1)Outside this window: Overvoltage can cause dielectric breakdown and short circuit, defeating safety function.
Impulse voltage (transient)Y1: up to 8kV peak; Y2: up to 5kV peakOutside this window: Higher transients can puncture dielectric, leading to short circuit and potential fire.
Frequency of AC supply50/60 Hz (standard)Outside this window: Higher frequencies increase reactive current and heating; may exceed current rating.
HumidityUp to 95% RH (non-condensing)Outside this window: Condensation can cause surface tracking and insulation failure.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards
IEC 60384-14, UL 94, UL 1414, EN 132400

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Electric shock hazard if capacitor fails shorted
  • Ground leakage current exceeding safety limits
  • Reduced effectiveness due to aging or temperature extremes
  • Incorrect installation causing safety compliance issues
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Dielectric breakdown due to voltage spikes
Failure: Short circuit between terminals
Mitigation: Use self-healing dielectric materials, implement overvoltage protection circuits, select appropriate safety class (Y1/Y2)
Trigger: Thermal stress from high ambient temperatures
Failure: Increased leakage current, reduced capacitance
Mitigation: Select capacitors with appropriate temperature rating, ensure proper ventilation, monitor operating temperature
Trigger: Mechanical damage during installation
Failure: Cracked casing leading to moisture ingress
Mitigation: Follow proper handling procedures, use strain relief for leads, implement visual inspection

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Capacitance tolerance ±20%, leakage current <0.25mA for medical devices, impulse withstand voltage per safety class
Test Method
IEC 60384-14 safety tests including dielectric strength, insulation resistance, endurance, humidity resistance, and flammability tests

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Y-Capacitor

1 company lists this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Chipown Semiconductor
年在科创板上, Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Related Components

Marking Strip
A durable marking strip used for terminal identification in motor terminal blocks to ensure proper electrical connections and safety compliance.
Gland Body
A gland body is the main housing component of an aluminum cable gland that provides mechanical protection and environmental sealing for electrical cables entering enclosures.
Current Sense Resistor
A precision resistor used to measure current flow in electrical circuits by converting current to a measurable voltage drop.
Conductor Terminal
A conductor terminal is a critical electrical component designed to securely connect and terminate conductors in high-voltage insulating bushings, ensuring reliable electrical transmission and insulation integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between X and Y capacitors?

X-capacitors are connected between line and neutral (differential mode filtering) while Y-capacitors are connected between line/neutral and ground (common-mode filtering). Y-capacitors have stricter safety requirements due to their connection to ground.

Why are Y-capacitors considered safety components?

Y-capacitors must meet stringent safety standards because they connect directly to ground. They are designed with reinforced insulation and self-healing properties to prevent electric shock hazards even if they fail.

What do Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y4 classifications mean?

These classifications indicate different safety levels based on rated impulse voltage: Y1 (8kV), Y2 (5kV), Y3 (n/a), Y4 (2.5kV). Higher numbers indicate higher safety requirements for different applications.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Request Manufacturing Insight for Y-Capacitor

Thank you. Your request has been sent. We'll respond within 1–3 business days.
Sorry, we couldn't send your message. Please try again, or email us at contact@cnfx.com.
X-Capacitor Yoke
Get QuotesChat