L3-R15-10
AI

The part number **L3-R15-10** typically refers to a high-power, chassis-mount **Wirewound Resistor**. This specific nomenclature is common among manufacturers like *Ohmite* or *Riedon*, where "L" often denotes an aluminum housed series, and "15" or "10" relates to wattage and resistance values.
### 1. Component Specifications
Based on standard electronic component coding, here is the breakdown of the technical specifications for this part:
| Parameter | Typical Value | Description |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Component Type** | Wirewound Resistor | Designed for high power dissipation and stability. |
| **Resistance Value** | 0.15 $\Omega$ or 15 $\Omega$* | Depends on the manufacturer’s decimal placement (R15 = 0.15 $\Omega$). |
| **Tolerance** | $\pm$ 10% | Denoted by the "10" at the end of the string. |
| **Housing Material** | Aluminum | Anodized aluminum casing for heat sink attachment. |
| **Power Rating** | 10W - 25W | Usually determined by the physical size of the L3 frame. |
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### 2. Key Features
* **Heat Dissipation:** These parts are designed to be bolted directly to a metal chassis or heat sink. The aluminum housing conducts heat away from the internal resistive wire.
* **Inductive Nature:** Because they are wirewound, they may have inherent inductance. They are best suited for DC or low-frequency AC applications.
* **Durability:** They are vibration-resistant and encapsulated in a potting compound (usually epoxy or silicone) to protect against environmental factors.
### 3. Common Applications
These resistors are used in circuits where high current needs to be managed or dissipated as heat:
1. **Current Sensing:** Low resistance values (like 0.15 $\Omega$) are used to measure current by monitoring the voltage drop across the resistor.
2. **Dynamic Braking:** Used in motor controllers to dissipate energy when a motor slows down.
3. **Inrush Limiting:** Limits the initial surge of current when power is first applied to a circuit.
4. **Dummy Loads:** Acts as a load for testing power supplies or amplifiers.
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### 4. Mounting & Installation
```text
[ Bolt Hole ] ___________________ [ Bolt Hole ]
| | | |
|_______| Aluminum |_______|
(Terminal) | Housing | (Terminal)
|___________________|
```
* **Thermal Paste:** For maximum efficiency, thermal grease should be applied between the resistor base and the mounting surface.
* **Wiring:** Terminals are usually solder-lug style or threaded, depending on the specific L3 sub-variation.
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- ⤷
What is the exact wattage rating for the L3 series from this manufacturer?
- ⤷ Is there a non-inductive version available for high-frequency applications?
- ⤷ How do I calculate the heat sink size required for this resistor at full load?