TRIAC, which stands for Triode for Alternating Current, is an essential component in the electronic components industry, primarily used for AC control and regulation. They find wide applications in areas such as lighting, power tools, household appliances, and power control, providing efficient solutions for AC control. TRIACs possess bidirectional conductivity and controllability, enabling precise control and regulation of AC current, making them widely used in various power control and dimming applications.
A TRIAC consists of four layers of semiconductor material, forming two PN junctions, known as a pnpn structure. Its main characteristic is the ability to conduct current in both positive and negative half-cycles. By controlling the triggering angle of the TRIAC, precise control of AC current and regulation of its magnitude can be achieved.
Control of the TRIAC is achieved by applying a triggering pulse. When the triggering pulse appears, the TRIAC enters a conductive state, allowing current to flow. Once current passes through the TRIAC, it remains in the conductive state until the current drops to zero. Then, the TRIAC automatically turns off until the next triggering pulse occurs.
Some popular models of TRIACs in the electronic components industry include the BT136, suitable for low-power applications like household appliances and lighting control; the BTA16, suitable for medium-power applications such as power tools and temperature controllers; and the TIC226, suitable for high-power applications like power tools and electric furnaces. These models cater to different power requirements and operating parameters, meeting various design specifications.
Prominent manufacturers in the global TRIAC market include STMicroelectronics, ON Semiconductor, Infineon Technologies, NXP Semiconductors, and others. These companies possess extensive experience and advanced manufacturing technologies, delivering high-quality and reliable TRIAC products. The TRIAC market is steadily growing, driven by applications in power control and dimming, and is expected to continue its growth trajectory.
In the future, TRIACs are expected to further evolve and exhibit new features. With the rapid advancement of smart homes and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, TRIACs may integrate with other smart devices, enabling smarter and automated control.