What are the Properties and Uses of Wire Wound Resistors

Resistors are an important component to help reduce current and restrict electrical current flow. Wire wound resistors, in particular, are important in applications where there are large amounts of power that need dissipation. They are one of the first types of resistors to be utilized, and their functions and structure have changed little over the years. Wire wound resistors have been superseded by other resistors, but their qualities and functionality in applications where other resistors fail make them still very reliable and widely used.

Wire wound resistors consist of a nonconductive material surrounded by wound resistive wire. They can tolerate extreme temperatures up to 450 degrees Celsius, thus proving them useful as high power resistors. Wire resistance is determined by various factors, ranging from length, diameter, and resistivity. Wire wound resistors are also beneficial due to their long term stability, absorption of pulses, and serve as some of the lowest current noise resistors. Pure metals are the most popular material for production due to having a high temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR); Tungsten being the most popular for very high temperatures.

Precision and power wire wounds are the two main types of wire wound resistors, and both serve in different applications. Precision wire wound resistors feature high accuracy, stability, and low TCR, making them popular for applications including temperature and engine sensors, power inverters, and smart grid metering. Due to current and voltage levels being low in these applications, power dissipation of wire wound resistors does not prove to be an issue. Power wire wound resistors, on the other hand, are utilized in power applications with their capabilities ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 kilowatts. They are categorized by their coating type, such as silicone resin for low dissipation levels and vitreous enamel for low temperature insulation. With their various uses, reliability, and qualities, both types of wire wound resistors remain popular forms of resistors over others that have come after them in many varying applications.

At ASAP Semiconductor, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find the wound wire resistors you need, new or obsolete. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asapsemi.com or call us at +1-714-705-4780.