47LAC-250W-R
AI

The part number **47LAC-250W-R** typically refers to a high-power **Metal Clad Wirewound Resistor**. These components are designed for high-power dissipation and are commonly housed in an aluminum casing for heat sink mounting.
Below is a detailed breakdown of its specifications and functions.
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### 1. Specification Overview
| Feature | Description |
| :--- | :--- |
| **Component Type** | High-Power Metal Clad Wirewound Resistor |
| **Power Rating** | 250 Watts (when mounted on an appropriate heat sink) |
| **Resistance Code** | "47L" or "47" usually denotes **47 Ohms** |
| **Tolerance** | "R" typically signifies a **±10%** or specific precision rating (standard is J: 5% or K: 10%) |
| **Construction** | Wirewound core inside an extruded aluminum housing |
| **Cooling** | Conductive cooling (must be bolted to a metal chassis) |
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### 2. Key Technical Features
* **Heat Dissipation:** The aluminum gold-anodized or silver-finished housing is designed to transfer heat away from the resistive element. Without a heat sink, the power rating drops significantly (often to 20-30% of its rated capacity).
* **Inductive Nature:** Because it is "wirewound" (a resistive wire wrapped around a ceramic core), it has inherent inductance. This makes it unsuitable for very high-frequency applications but excellent for power management.
* **Durability:** These parts are highly resistant to vibration, moisture, and harsh environments due to the silicone or cement filling inside the aluminum shell.
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### 3. Common Applications
These resistors are used in heavy-duty electronic circuits where large amounts of energy need to be converted into heat:
1. **Dynamic Braking:** Used in motor controllers (VFDs) to dissipate energy generated when a motor slows down.
2. **Load Testing:** Used as a "dummy load" to test power supplies or amplifiers.
3. **Inrush Current Limiting:** Protecting circuits from high surges when power is first applied.
4. **Heating Elements:** Sometimes used as small heaters in controlled environments to prevent condensation in electronic enclosures.
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### 4. Installation Requirements
* **Thermal Paste:** It is highly recommended to apply thermal grease between the flat bottom of the resistor and the mounting surface to improve heat transfer.
* **Wiring:** Due to the 250W rating, the lead wires or terminals must be of a sufficient gauge to handle the current without melting.
- ⤷What is the derating curve for a 250W resistor without a heat sink?
- ⤷ Can this resistor be used in high-frequency RF applications?
- ⤷ What are the common failure modes for wirewound resistors?