Power Metal Strip Shunts Current Shunts - pl0005 1801

V I S H AY I N T E R T E C H N O L O G Y, I N C .
SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Resistive Products
TABLE OF CONTENTS
• Introduction................................................................................................................................................ 2
• What is a Shunt?........................................................................................................................................ 2
• What is a Current Shunt?........................................................................................................................... 3
• What is a Current Sensor?......................................................................................................................... 3
Shunts/Current Sensors
• Chips and SMD.......................................................................................................................................... 4
• Exposed Element....................................................................................................................................... 5
Shunts, Low Ohm
• High Power (100 W to 1000 W).................................................................................................................. 6
• Mid Power (10 W to 100 W)....................................................................................................................... 7
• Low Power (1 W to 10 W)........................................................................................................................... 7
Current Sensors, Lower Ohm
• Axial Leads................................................................................................................................................. 8
• Radial Leads.............................................................................................................................................. 9
• Axial/Radial Leads...................................................................................................................................... 9
Characteristics and Design Considerations
• Kelvin Connection.................................................................................................................................... 10
• Tolerance and Measurement of Resistance at Low Values...................................................................... 10
• Power Rating and Thermal Dissipation.................................................................................................... 11
• One Short Pulse....................................................................................................................................... 12
• Equally Spaced Repetitive Pulses............................................................................................................ 12
• Long Pulses (100 milliseconds to 5 seconds).......................................................................................... 12
• Current Rating.......................................................................................................................................... 12
• Reactance, Impedance............................................................................................................................ 13
• Thermal EMF............................................................................................................................................ 13
• Noise........................................................................................................................................................ 14
• Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR).......................................................................................... 15
Design Factors
• Shunts...................................................................................................................................................... 16
• Sensors.................................................................................................................................................... 16
• Typical Applications................................................................................................................................. 16
RESOURCES
• For technical questions contact [email protected]
• Sales Contacts: http://www.vishay.com/doc?99914 A WORLD OF
SOLUTIONS
CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 1/17
THIS DOCUMENT IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. THE PRODUCTS DESCRIBED HEREIN AND PL0005-1801
THIS DOCUMENT ARE SUBJECT TO SPECIFIC DISCLAIMERS, SET FORTH AT www.vishay.com/doc?91000 www.vishay.com

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Introduction
Generally speaking, there is considerable overlapping in the use of the terms “shunts,” “current shunts,” and “current
sensors.” Although these three terms are used interchangeably, there are some subtle differences that are worth noting
and that may suggest a preference for one or another term as it relates to a particular application.
What is a Shunt?
A shunt is a resistive device employed to divert most of the current in an electric circuit. The earliest shunts were meter
shunts used as external accessories to ammeters allowing one meter to be used for a variety of current levels depending
upon which shunt was chosen. These were often massive 4 terminal devices with the smaller potential terminals
connected to the meter and the larger current terminals connected to the circuit under test. Present day ammeters are
more likely to be specific to a particular current range – one meter, one internal shunt. These internal shunts are resistors
with current connections to the external terminals of the ammeter and voltage connections made internally to the meter
movement.
In addition to these measurement shunts, power shunts used for electric motor starting, braking, and speed control.
Loading, neutral grounding, preheating and capacitor unloading are all applications in which a resistor is called upon to
shunt large amounts of current.
For purposes of this brochure a shunt shall be any 2- or 4 terminal resistor of sub-ohmic resistance value and
high current capacity. To fully describe a particular shunt, the following characteristics may require identification:
Mechanical (as applicable)

• All external dimensions
• Body material and finish
• Terminal material and finish
• Mounting method and hardware
• Maximum internal hot-spot temperature
• Maximum case temperature and test location (related to hot-spot temperature)
• External conductors, termination, and method of attachment
• External heat sink capacity and mounting method
• Cooling water connection with specified inlet temperature, flow rate, and pressure
• Part number and part marking
• Unit packaging method and package marking
• Unit weight and shipping weight
Electrical (as applicable)

• Resistance value and tolerance (for 4-terminal devices, also the maximum resistance value between the
current terminals)
• Maximum current rating
• Maximum continuous-duty wattage rating based on specified heat sinking method
• Maximum pulse power under specified conditions
• Maximum temperature coefficient of resistance and temperature range and reference
• Maximum reactance
• Maximum dielectric withstanding voltage to mounting hardware

Resistive Products
What is a Current Shunt?

For the purpose of this brochure a current shunt is defined as a shunt capable of current sensing as well as conducting
significant current.
What is a Current Sensor?

A current sensor is a resistive device employed to sense levels of current. Current sensors are used in applications where
the emphasis is on accuracy and repeatability under all conditions and less on high current capability. Applications such
as force-balance scales, E beam deflection systems, and switching power supplies, all rely on current sensors to feed
back and control the current. For the purpose of this brochure, a current sensor is defined as a 4 terminal resistor of
high accuracy and stability and usually of low resistance value. To fully describe a particular current sensor, the following
characteristics must be identified:
Mechanical (as applicable)

• All external dimensions
• Body material and finish
• Lead material and finish
• Identification of current and potential leads
• Part number and part marking
• Unit packaging method and package marking
• Unit weight and shipping weight
Electrical (as applicable)

• Resistance value and tolerance
• Alternate specification: voltage output and tolerance for a given current throughput, e.g. 50 mV ± 0.1 % per ampere
• Maximum temperature coefficient of resistance
• Maximum wattage rating
• Maximum reactance
• Maximum dielectric withstanding voltage
• Maximum current noise
• Maximum thermal EMF at the terminals

Resistive Products
Shunts/Current Sensors: Chips and SMD

These low ohm chip resistors are examples of the range of capabilities available. Hybrid packaging and surface-mounting
practitioners will find these leadless devices to be useful solutions for current sensing in small spaces.
Resistance Range,
Sizes Length Power Rating
Brand Product Image Part Number Tolerance,
Available (inch / [mm]) (W)
and Other Features
WSL 0603, 0805, • 0.0005 Ω to 0.5 Ω

0.06 to 0.59
WSLP 1206, 2010, 0.1 to 3 • ± 1 %
[1.52 to 15]
WSLT 2512, 2816 • Power Metal Strip®
• 0.001 Ω to 0.200 Ω
WSHM 0.280 • ± 1 %
2818 7 to 10 • Very low thermal
WSHP [7.1] resistance
• Power Metal Strip
• 0.001 Ω to 1 Ω
WSR 0.455 • ±1%
4527 2 to 5
WSR High Power [11.56] • Molded
• 0.0005 Ω and 0.001 Ω
0.15 • ± 1%, ± 5%
WSK1216 1216 3
[3.8] • 4-terminal
WSL2726 • 0.0003 Ω to 0.005 Ω

0.272 • ±1%
WSLP2726 2726 3 to 7
WSLT2726 • Power Metal Strip
Vishay Dale WSL4026 • 0.0003 Ω to 0.005 Ω

0.400 • ±1%
WSLP4026 4026 3 to 7
WSLT4026 • Power Metal Strip
• 0.0003 Ω to 0.003 Ω
WSLF2512 2512 0.25 4 to 6 • ± 1%, ± 5%
WSL3921 / WSL5931 • 0.0001 Ω to 0.004 Ω

3921 / 0.394 [10] / 3 to 9 /
WSLP3921 / WSLP5931 • ± 1% , ± 5%
5931 0.591 [15] 5 to 10
WSLT3921 / WSLT5931 • Power Metal strip
• 0.001 Ω to 0.01 Ω
0.36 • 1%
WSL3637 3637 3
• 0.0005 Ω to 0.2 Ω
WSK 0612 0.06 to 0.25 • ±1%
1
WSKW0612 2512 [1.50 to 6.35] • 4-terminal
0.2 to 0.69 • 0.1 Ω to 8 kΩ
2012, 2515,
WSC [5.08 to 0.5 to 3 • ± 1 %
4527, 6927
17.52] • Molded wirewound
Vishay • 0.05 Ω to 15 kΩ
2715, 4528, 0.27 to 0.58
MSP 1 to 2.5 • ± 1 %
Sfernice 5828 [6.9 to 14.8] • Molded wirewound

Resistive Products
Shunts/Current Sensors: Exposed-Element

These exposed-element devices are examples of the range of capabilities available. Exposed-element devices
represent a cost-effective approach to current sensing.
Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

Brand Product Image Part Number
Available (inch / [mm]) (W) and Other Features
• 0.0001 Ω to 0.00025 Ω
2.4 • ±1%
SPR-889 1 size 13
[61] • 4-terminal
• Buss block terminals
• 0.0004 Ω to 0.002 Ω
2.75
SPR-2166 1 size 13 • ± 1 %
[70]
• 4-terminal
• 0.0035 Ω to 0.025 Ω
1.05
SPR-2039 1 size 3.5 • ± 1 %
[26.7]
• 4-terminal PCB mount
• 0.0004 Ω to 0.002 Ω
1.4
SPR-2093 1 size 13 • ± 1 %
[35.6]
• 0.015 Ω to 0.265 Ω
0.74
SPR-676 1 size 0.75 to 1 • ± 0.5 %
[18.8]
• 0.0025 Ω to 0.01 Ω
0.5
SPU-104 1 size 1.875 • ± 0.1 %
[12.7]
• 0.005 Ω
0.35
SPU-111-1 1 size 1 • ± 0.1 %
[8.9]
• 0.0016 Ω to 0.02 Ω
1.1
SPU-114 1 size 1 • ± 0.1 %
[27.9]
Vishay Dale • 4-terminal PCB mount
3.346 • 50 μΩ to 250 μΩ
WSBS8518 8518 36
[85] • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
• 50 µΩ to 250 µΩ
3.346
WSBS8518-14 8518 36 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
[85]
• Plated terminals
• 50 µΩ to 250 µΩ
3.346
WSBS8518-20 8518 36 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
[85]
• Two sense pins
• 100 µΩ to 1000 µΩ
WSBS8518-34 3.346
8518 20, 25, 36 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
/ -35 [85]
• NiCr, improved RTC
WSBS8518-M3 3.346 • 50 µΩ to 250 µΩ
8518 36
/ M4 [85] • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
• 50 µΩ, 100 µΩ, 125 µΩ, 500 µΩ
3.346
WSBM8518 8518 36 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
[85]
• Battery shunt with molded enclosure
2.05 • 100 µΩ
WSBS5216 5216 12
[52] • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
• 100 μΩ to 500 μΩ
2.165
WSMS5515 5515 3 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
[55]
• Meter shunt
• 100 μΩ to 500 μΩ
1.142
WSMS2908 2908 3 • ± 5 %, ± 10 %
[29]
• Meter shunt

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Shunts, Low Ohm: High Power (100 W to 1000 W)

These high power devices are examples of the range of capabilities available.

• 0.1 Ω to 135.5 Ω
2 to 20 • ± 5 %, 10 %
FSE 17 sizes 50 to 1500
[50.8 to 508] • 350 °C max hot spot
• Air-cooled
• 0.005 Ω to 0.01 Ω
3.5
SPR-761 1 size 100 • ± 1 %
[89]
Vishay Dale • Chassis mount
• 0.05 Ω to 37.5 kΩ
4.5
SPR-1002 1 size 450 • ± 1 %
[114]
• Liquid-cooled
• 0.003 Ω
4.5
SPR-1009 1 size 250 • 4-terminal
[114]
• Chassis mount
5.43 to 14.69 • 0.068 Ω

RSO 4 sizes 160 to 1000
[138 to 373] • 450 °C temperature rise
• 0.24 Ω to 1 MΩ
2.87
Vishay RPS 2 sizes 250 and 500 • ± 1 %
[73]
Sfernice • Heat sink mounting
• 0.046 Ω to 1 MΩ
• ± 1 %
1.5
RTOP 2 sizes 100 to 200 • Multiple resistors in
[38]
single package
• Heat sink mounting

Resistive Products
Shunts, Low Ohm: Mid-Power (10 W - 100 W)

These mid power devices are examples of the range of capabilities available. Some of these shunts are suitable for precise
current sensing and should be considered when a power requirement exists in addition to the precision and stability
requirements of current sensoring.

• 0.001 Ω to 0.01 Ω
2.5
SPR-390 1 size 50 • ± 1 %
[64]
• Chassis mount
Vishay Dale
• 0.001 Ω to 0.01 Ω
1.5
SPR-439 1 size 25 • ± 1 %
[38]
• Insulated flexible leads
Shunts, Low Ohm: Low Power (1 W - 10 W)

These low power devices are examples of the range of capabilities available. Good practice calls for derating with tolerance to
hold the time drift to a level consistent with the initial tolerance.

• 0.0015 Ω to 0.01 Ω
1.0 • ±1%
SPR-383 1 size 5
[25] • Special aluminum housing
• Flexible leads
Vishay Dale
• 0.005 Ω to 0.8 Ω
0.437 to
LVR- • ±1%
4 sizes 1.828 1/3/5/10
1/3/5/10 • Axial leaded
[11 to 46.4]
• High temperature molded body

Resistive Products
Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Axial Leads

These current sensors with axial leads are examples of the range of capabilities available. Some of these current sensors
are plastic-encapsulated while others are in metal housings. Metal enclosures provide a more rugged mounting and more
thermal conduction.
Sizes Length Power Rating Features Resistance Range, Tolerance,

• 0.008 Ω to 0.5 Ω
0.975
SPR-1005 1 size 5 • ± 1 %
[24.8]
• 4-terminal molded
• 0.0025 Ω to 0.3 Ω
0.8
SPR-2013 1 size 2 • ± 0.1 % min
[20]
• 0.001 Ω to 0.5 Ω
0.66 to 1.87
SPU50/51/52/53 4 sizes 1/2/4/5 • ± 1 %
[16.8 to 47.5]
• 0.001 Ω to 0.25 Ω
0.875 • ±1%
SPR-2073 1 size 3
• Ceramic case
• 0.001 Ω to 0.25 Ω
0.875 • ±1%
SPR-2123 1 size 5
• Ceramic case
Vishay Dale • 0.001 Ω to 0.25 Ω
1.88 • ±1%
SPR-2091 1 size 10
[40] • 4-terminal
• Ceramic case
• 0.001 Ω to 6.55 kΩ
0.75 • ±1%
RH-10-65 1 size 10
[19] • 4-terminal
• Aluminum-housed chassis mount
• 0.001 Ω to 13.4 kΩ
1.062 • ±1%
RH-25-137 1 size 25
[27] • 4-terminal
• 0.001 Ω to 39.2 kΩ
1.97 • ±1%
RH-50-10 1 size 50
[50] • 4-terminal
0.625 and • 0.003 Ω to 0.05 Ω
SPR-859 1 size 0.75 2 • ± 1 % min.
[15.9 and 19] • 4-terminal molded

Resistive Products
Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Radial Leads

These current sensors with radial leads are examples of the range of capabilities available. Radial-leaded current sensors
take up less board space for a given size.

Brands Product Image Part Number
• 0.01 Ω / 0.1 Ω, 10 to 1 ratio divider

1.03
Vishay Dale SPR-1012 1 size 4 • ± 1 %
[26]
• 5-terminal coated
• 0.046 Ω to 1 MΩ
Vishay 0.59 • ±1%
RTO 2 sizes 20 and 50
Sfernice [15] • TO220 package
• Heat sink mounting
Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Axial/Radial Leads

Axial/radial lead configurations have the advantage of short potential connection leads to the PC board thus minimizing
thermal EMF generation.
Product Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

Brands Part Number
Image Available (inch / [mm]) (W) and Other Features
• 0.01 Ω to 0.025 Ω
0.675
Vishay Dale SPR-779 1 size 1 • ± 1 %
[17]

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Characteristics and Design Considerations

Figure 1. The Equivalent Circuit Kelvin Connection
A Kelvin or 4 terminal connection is required in these
Xc low ohmic value products to measure a precise
voltage drop across the resistive element. In these
Lead Resistor Lead
applications, the contact resistance and the lead
resistance may be greater than that of the element
XL1 r1 XL R XL2 r2 resistance itself, so lead connection errors and lead
temperature coefficient of resistance errors can be
significant if only a 2 terminal connection is employed.
Figure 2. The Simplified Circuit Figure 1 shows a resistor in series with an inductor in
parallel with a capacitor including the resistance and
RT
inductance of the leads. This is the equivalent circuit
of a 2 terminal resistor.
Lead Lead Ignoring the inductance and capacitance for now, the 2
Resistor
terminal resistor is shown in Figure 2. If
r1 R r2
r1 = r2 = r, then the total resistance RT = R + 2r. The
lead resistance r is uncertain because there is no user-
assured connection to the lead. Thus, if we allow r to
be significant compared to R, small inaccuracies in
lead connections become large inaccuracies in readings. Furthermore, since the lead material is likely to be copper (with a
resistance change with temperature (TCR) of +3900 ppm/°C) and the shunt might be manganin (with a TCR of –20 ppm/°C),
then ∆r is very large compared to ∆R and the device is useless in a temperature-variable application.
In the 19th century, Lord Kelvin developed, among other things, the 4 terminal method of measurement, which eliminated
both the uncertainty of lead resistance and lead response to temperature. Figure 3 is the Kelvin solution. If the voltage
measuring system used here is of a high impedance, then r5 approaches infinity and the measurement current lm
approaches zero. With zero lm there is zero IR drop through r3 and r4, and therefore it does not matter whether the contact
resistance is large or small. It also does not matter if the contacts have a high TCR. Similarly, the TCR of the current leads
is no longer important because the voltage connections are fixed inside the lead resistance, and, the resistance and TCR of
the element only are sensed. Any errors associated with the lead resistance, contact resistance, and/or lead TCR are thus
eliminated. A Kelvin connection to a four-terminal resistor is essential for precise current sensing.
Tolerance and Measurement of Figure 3. Kelvin Connection

Resistance at Low Values
r1 R r2
The ability to measure low values to tight tolerances is a I1 I2
concern to both the manufacturer and the user. In many
cases, coordination of reading ability by exchange of serialized r3 r4
units with recorded readings becomes necessary. The 1
problem is compounded in the cases of high current shunts
where the self-heating will cause the “in-service” resistance
value to be different than that obtained with low current
r5 (n)
level measuring equipment. Therefore, the measurement
conditions must be defined (agreed upon) at the time of
specification preparation, i.e., resistance value as determined
by specified current and measured IR drop following a period
of stabilization.

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Measurement equipment is available from a number of sources with varying stated accuracies. Digital multimeters with
from 5½ to 8½ digits may have a 1 Ω full-scale range. If the stated accuracy is sufficient, these devices are suitable for
direct reading of resistance down to 0.001 Ω when equipped with Kelvin connections. If indirect readings (calculated from
current and voltage readings) are acceptable, then the digital multimeter can be switched from the ohms to the voltage
function, and with a constant-current power supply across the known and unknown resistors in series. IR drops across the
potential leads can be measured and compared. This method permits measurement at rated current which is not available
with the “ohms” function of multimeters and/or most low ohm bridges. Thus, measurement with the higher rated current
assures correct results at anticipated operating conditions. One useful variation of this scheme is to read many resistors
at one time by passing the constant current through all resistors in series and switching the voltage probes from one
resistor to the next. Large quantities are thus measured quickly. It should be noted that manufacturers will generally prefer
a resistance specified at room temperature and not have to deal with the stabilization time necessary for rated current
readings. If rated current readings are required, a test charge may be imposed.
Power Rating and Thermal Dissipation

Resistors are energy convertors converting electrical energy to thermal energy in accordance with the formula
P = El where the power consumed P watts is the result of impressing E volts across the resistor and producing
I current. Also from Ohm’s law, these additional formulas are recalled here for convenience: P = I2 R, P = E2/R, and one
watt-hour is worth 3.413 BTUs. The energy converted by the resistor cannot be allowed to continually build up and be
stored as heat within the resistor. Eventually it must be passed to another medium for disposal. Equilibrium is eventually
reached such that the heat generation within the resistor is equal to the heat disposal to the other medium and a stable
internal temperature results. This temperature must not exceed a tolerable limit since further increase will alter the integrity
of the resistor or even destroy it. Since this temperature limit is within the resistor, it is referred to as the “maximum internal
hot spot temperature” as if there were one spot within the device that is most likely to overheat.
The internal hot-spot temperature must be limited to that which will not cause a permanent performance change through
metallurgical degradation in a metal alloy resistive element or a chemical change in a cermet or other non-metallic element.
More often than not, however, it is limited to the lower temperatures that will be tolerated by any coatings in contact with
the element.
From the internal hot spot the heat flows through the body of the resistor and (in the absence of a heat sink) passes to
the other medium by radiation and convection from the resistor body. With a heat sink, more rapid removal by conduction
takes place. In the case of axial-leaded cap and core resistors, the leads act as thermal conductors to the board traces
(which act as heat sinks) and dissipate a major amount of the total heat from the resistor.
The equilibrium temperature will be reached most rapidly with the resistor in still air. Additional power can be dissipated
before reaching the maximum temperature if there is circulation of the air. A heat sink, or an oil bath, or cooling water
circulation becomes necessary to remain below the maximum internal hot spot temperature when dissipating increasingly
large amount of power.
The resistor manufacturer has determined the maximum power in still air and/or with a specified heat sink that will limit
the resistor internal hot spot temperature to a satisfactory level. This is the rated power and must not be exceeded. A
separate power rating for still air and for a specified heat sink may be provided. Also, the other medium may not always
be at room temperature, and therefore less power can be dissipated if the other medium is at an elevated temperature. A
derating curve may be provided allowing use of the resistor in an elevated temperature environment without exceeding the
maximum internal hot-spot temperature. These curves generally derate to zero power at some elevated temperature which
is for these purposes “the maximum hot spot temperature.”
While manufacturers’ power ratings are serious specifications, they cannot be expected to exactly apply in every case.
The thermal dissipation in critical applications may require further analysis. To limit the amount of calculation required,
the temperature drop from the “internal hot spot” to some “test spot” on the body of the resistor is frequently known and
available. The thermal analysis is thereby limited to factors associated with the other medium and confirmed by surface
pyrometer readings on the “test spot.” This “test spot” with its “maximum external hot spot temperature” is frequently
identified for simplicity as the “hot spot.”

Resistive Products
One Short Pulse

The theory of pulse handling depends upon the pulse width. A short pulse of 100 milliseconds or less is assumed to never
have time enough to do more than heat the element. Therefore, the calculation is based on the total mass of the element
(wire) only being heated to the maximum internal hot-spot temperature. Example: A resistor element consisting of 10
grams of wire with a specific heat of 0.1 heated from 25 °C to a maximum internal hot spot temperature of 275 °C requires:
10 x 0.1
–––––––- (275 – 25) = 0.29 watt-hours of equivalent power
860
Note: A calorie is 1/860 watt-hours.
If the pulse width is 10 milliseconds, the pulse power could be:
0.29 x 3600 x 1000

----------------------------------- = 104,400 watts max.
10
Equally Spaced Repetitive Pulses

Here, the average power, which is the peak power multiplied by the pulse width divided by the cycle width, establishes
a threshold temperature rise. Above this threshold to the maximum internal hot-spot temperature is additional pulse
capacity. In reducing this theory to practice, assignment is given to the percentage of rated power that both the average
and pulse power represent. As long as the sum of the two does not exceed 100 % of the rating, the application is satisfied.
Example: The pulse power is P = V2/R and the average power is PA = Pt/T where t is the pulse width and T is the cycle
width. Calculate the average power and the % of rated power for the candidate resistor. Now using the derating curve,
establish the threshold temperature that results and use it in the pulse calculation above. Calculate the pulse power that
can be tolerated in the wire being heated above the new threshold temperature to the internal hot-spot temperature. This
is the maximum pulse power allowed at this average power level.
Long Pulses (100 milliseconds to 5 seconds)

Here, the pulse heat generated is no longer retained fully within the wire, but some passes to other body members of the
resistor. A short time overload rating is frequently given, and this can be safely used as the long pulse rating. A factor of
5 times rated power is generally satisfactory for 5 seconds.
Allowable pulse power levels for pulses from 1 second to 25 seconds long can be found by 25 times rated power divided
by the pulse time in seconds. Below 1 second, use the 1-second rating. Above 25 seconds, use rated power.
Current Rating
Some devices in this range of products are “current-limited” rather than power-limited. This comes from the fact that as
electron flow is increased by increasing the voltage, there comes a point where the current no longer follows Ohm’s law.
This “critical current density” varies for different resistance materials, but it must be kept in mind that leads and attachment
hardware also have a critical current density. A current density up to 260 KA/in2 may be tolerated by a particular metal, but
the manufacturer’s rating is likely to be considerably below this limit for safety reasons.
Appropriately sized connecting wire must be used and the ratings of the wire manufacturer must be followed. Where a resistor
current limit is specified, it must not be exceeded. Under certain circumstances, pulses of current in excess of the current limit
can be tolerated. Please contact “Technical Support” by going to www.vishay.com and selecting “Contacts.”

Resistive Products
Reactance and Impedance

Reactance is the component of an AC impedance that defines a phase shift between the current and the voltage.
Impedance is the ratio of effective voltage over effective current in an AC circuit.
Reactance may be inductive or capacitive. In low value resistors (below 10 Ω), the inductive reactance usually outweighs
the capacitive reactance while higher values are more likely to be capacitive with bifilar or Ayrton-Perry winding. Pi, bifilar,
and Ayrton-Perry winding are used to improve reactance.
Figure 4 shows the various components of resistor response to an AC signal in vectorial notation. “R” is the DC resistance
of the device and “XL” and “XC” are the inductive and capacitive reactances, respectively. Figure 5 shows the sum of
XL and XC leaving an effective net reactance “XT”. The impedance “Z” is the Pythagorean sum of “R” and “XT”. The AC
impedance is always greater than the DC resistance unless XL is exactly equal to XC.
Figure 4. AC Signal Reactance in Figure 5. AC Signal Effective Net

Vectorial Notation Reactance
XL = 2 πƒL
Z
XT
R
1 R
XC= –––––
2 πƒC
The products listed in this brochure are largely low value resistors with little or no response to XT until well up into
the megahertz range. Therefore, the effect of reactance can largely be ignored referring only special requirements to
Applications Engineering.
Thermal EMF
Dissimilar metals, in contact with each other, produce a small voltage. This voltage is variable with temperature and
is therefore called a “thermal EMF” or thermocouple effect. The rate of change of voltage with temperature from an
intermetallic junction is a function of the metallic combination. The sense of the voltage produced is either positive or
negative, depending on which side of the combination is being considered the input. Virtually all resistors have intermetallic
combinations, and it is presumed that they will eventually be connected to copper as a final intermetallic junction. Hence,
copper is the typical reference metal. Table 1 is a brief synopsis of the thermal EMFs for various metals and alloys used in
resistor construction vs. copper as the reference.
Thermal EMF is an important consideration in low value resistors used in DC circuits. (It usually has no importance in AC
circuitry.) In particular, the importance in current sensors is obvious since the thermal EMF could be larger than the signal
being discriminated.
Table 1. Thermal EMF of Selected Metals and Alloys

Metal/Alloy Thermal EMF vs. Copper µV/°C
Evanohm +2.0
Cupron -45.0
Manganin -3.0
Zeranin -1.3
Nickel -22.0
Gold +0.2
Silver -0.2
Aluminum -4.0

Resistive Products
Figure 6. No Thermal Difference End to End

As noted earlier, thermal EMFs have polarity and
so, for example, from copper to manganin and
back to copper through a particular resistor, one
100 µV end is a +3 µV/°C generator and the other end
is a -3 µV/°C generator. In the ideal situation
of both ends of the resistor being at the same
temperature, the thermal EMFs are self-canceling.
The manufacturer minimizes thermal EMF effects
through the use of appropriate metals, but it is up
l=0.1A to the user to see that the product is installed in
such a way that the resistor is not being heated
Cu .001 Ω Cu
Min Min non-uniformly by other components. Figure 6
+ 45 °C - - 45 °C +
100 µV
is the equivalent circuit when both ends of the
60 µV 60 µV resistor are at the same temperature. Figure 7 is
the equivalent circuit when one end is heated.
Note that the 100 µV measured IR drop of Figure
6 became 130 µV apparent drop in Figure 7 when
a temperature difference of 10 °C is allowed to
exist across
Figure 7. 10° Thermal Difference End to End the resistor.
100 µV Noise
Noise is an unwanted AC signal from within the
resistor. Two types of noise exist and can limit
product usefulness under certain conditions.
Thermal noise, often called “Johnson noise,”

l=0.1A
is due to the random motion of electrons in the
.001 Ω
resistive material, which creates small fluctuating
Cu Min Min Cu
+ 45 °C - - 55 °C + potential differences across the terminations.
130 µV
60 µV 90 µV Thermal noise is characterized by a continuous
frequency spectrum. Its magnitude is independent
of the material of the conductive element or its
shape, and varies only with temperature and
resistance.
Thermal noise can be obtained where

from the formula: K = Boltzmann’s constant (1.38 x 10-23 joules/degree Kelvin)
E2 = 4KTR (f2 – f1) T = Absolute temperature (°C + 273)
R = Resistance of the conductor
E = Root mean square value of the thermal noise voltage
(f2 – f1) = Bandwidth in hertz
The voltage developed by thermal agitation sets a limit on the smallest voltage that can be amplified without being
lost in a background of noise.
Resistances composed of metal or metal alloys (wirewound, etc.) display the lowest combined noise level and can
largely be ignored. However, resistances composed of conductive particles dispersed in an insulating matrix or films
with imperfect lattice structure and non-conducting occlusions generate noise far in excess of the thermal agitation

Resistive Products
noise when a direct current is passed through the resistance. This type of noise arises from fluctuations in contact resistance
between conducting sites within the matrix and is greater in higher values where the sites are fewer. It can also occur at
poorly joined metal connections such as cold solder joints. The frequency spectrum of current noise is not continuous
and appears in the lower audio frequency range. This may place a limitation on the use of thick film resistors under the
circumstances of very small signal discrimination at mid frequencies.
The noise index is calculated from the formula: Table 2. Noise Conversion
Noise Voltage Db µV/V

Db = 20 x log10 = –––––––––--––– (over a 1-decade bandwidth) 15 5.60
DC Voltage
10 3.20
where noise voltage is the RMS current noise voltage 5 1.80
generated by the resistor and the DC voltage is the voltage
arising out of specified current flowing through the resistor at 0 1.00
a specified temperature. -5 0.56
-10 0.32
The index is usually expressed either as µV/V or in decibels
of the ratio of voltages. These are interchangeable as shown -15 0.18
in Table 2. -20 0.10
-25 0.056
-30 0.032
-35 0.018
Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR)

Change in resistance as a function of temperature exists in all resistors to various extents. This change is seldom linear, but
for convenience it is usually expressed as a straight line function. Sometimes the change is sought between two specific
temperatures. Hence, the general equation for the instantaneous TCR at any temperature is:
dR
TCRinst = ––––
Rdt
and the more useful TCR calculated from the chord slope from one temperature to another is:
R2 - R1
TCRchord = –––––-––––––
R1 (T2 - T1)
Also, TCR is usually referred to room temperature (25 °C) as the reference temperature T1, and the second temperature T2 is either
0 °C or +60 °C for end use in instrumentation and -55 °C or +125 °C for military end use (power resistors to +275 °C). Note that
TCR can be either positive or negative. By convention, an increase in resistance with an increase in temperature is a positive TCR.
Also, note that self-heating causes a resistance change due to TCR. Table 3 gives the TCR for some resistance materials used in
the range of products in this brochure.
Table 3. TCR, ppm/°C of Various Resistor Element Materials

Temperature Range -55 °C to +25 °C 0 °C to +25 °C +25 °C to +60 °C +25 °C to +125 °C
Manganin +50 +10 -5 -80
Zeranin +20 ± 2.5 ± 5.0 +10
Evanohm +5.0 +2.5 -2.5 -5.0
Foil -1.0 -0.3 +0.3 +1.0
Thin Film -10 -5.0 +5.0 +10
Thick Film -100 -25 +50 +100

Resistive Products
Design Factors
To help customers select the correct components for their application or design new components for specific applications,
many design factors must be taken into consideration. Below are the minimum design factors needed before accurate
component selection or design can be made.
You can obtain more information by sending a request to [email protected] or by contacting your local Vishay
sales representative.
Shunts
1.0 Power rating required – how much power will be dissipated?
2.0 Disposal of heat generated – what services are available to remove heat? What services are available to remove
forced air?
3.0 Mounting surface and hardware – what shock and vibration conditions dictate standard or special mounting?
4.0 Resistance value and tolerance – the tolerance must be consistent with the ability to measure. With specific electrical
gage points identified, two-terminal devices can be toleranced to discriminate 0.001 Ω. 4 terminal devices can be
toleranced to discriminate down to 0.0001 Ω. Thus, a 2 terminal resistor of 0.1 Ω can be given a tolerance no tighter
than ± 1.0 % (1.0 % of 0.1 Ω = 0.001 Ω) while a 4 terminal resistor can be given a tolerance as tight as
± 0.1 % (0.1 % of 0.1 Ω = 0.0001 Ω).
Sensors
1.0 Current Rating – how much current is the sensor expected to handle? Continuously? Pulsed? Distortion-restricted?
2.0 Sensitivity – how much output signal is required per unit of current? (How much µV or mV per ampere?)
This sets the resistance value and the power rating.
3.0 Resistance Value – the required sensor resistance is equal to the current rating times the sensitivity divided by the
current rating or numerical equivalence to the sensitivity, but in ohms.
Example: A 2 A sensor with 100 mV/A sensitivity will have a full scale output of 0.2 V
∆R = E ÷ I = 0.2 ÷ 2 = 0.1 Ω
4.0 Power Rating – the required power rating may be greater than the product Emax and Imax if the sensitivity must be the
same following self-heating. A positive TCR will cause the resistance value to increase along with the sensitivity. This
effect can be minimized by over specifying the power rating or moving to a lower TCR element.
Typical Applications
• DC/DC converters • Automotive applications
• AC/DC converters –– Electronic power steering
• Power supplies –– Body electronics
• Motor controls –– Engine control modules
• Instrumentation –– ABS
• Battery fuel gauges –– Electric vehicles
• Li-Ion battery management • Household/industrial electric meters
• VRMs in notebook computers

Resistive Products
SEMICONDUCTORS Hall Effect Position Sensors

Optoelectronic Components Precision Management Encoders
MOSFETs Segment Networks / Arrays
Segment Non-Linear Resistors
MOSFETs Infrared Emitters and Detectors
NTC Thermistors
Low Voltage TrenchFET® Power Optical Sensors PTC Thermistors
MOSFETs Proximity Thin Film RTDs
Medium Voltage Power MOSFETs
Ambient Light Varistors
High Voltage Planar MOSFETs
High Voltage Superjunction MOSFETs Light Index (RGBW, UV, IR) Magnetics
Automotive Grade MOSFETs Humidity Inductors
ICs Quadrant Sensors Wireless Charging Coils
Transmissive Planar Devices
VRPower® DrMOS Integrated Power
Transformers
Stages Reflective
Custom Magnetics
Power Management and Power Control Infrared Remote Control Receivers
ICs Connectors
Optocouplers
Smart Load Switches Phototransistor, Photodarlington Capacitors Segment
Analog Switches and Multiplexers Tantalum Capacitors
Linear
Diodes Segment Phototriac Molded Chip Tantalum Capacitors
Rectifiers High Speed Molded Chip Polymer Tantalum
Schottky Rectifiers Capacitors
IGBT and MOSFET Drivers
Tantalum MAP Capacitors
Ultrafast Recovery Rectifiers Solid-State Relays Polymer Tantalum MAP Capacitors
Standard and Fast Recovery Rectifiers LEDs and 7-Segment Displays Coated Chip Tantalum Capacitors
High Power Rectifiers / Diodes Infrared Data Transceiver Modules Solid Through-Hole Tantalum Capacitors
Bridge Rectifiers Custom Products Wet Tantalum Capacitors
Small Signal Diodes Ceramic Capacitors
Schottky and Switching Diodes Multilayer Chip Capacitors
Zener Diodes
PASSIVE COMPONENTS
Disc Capacitors
RF Pin Diodes
Protection Diodes
Resistors and Inductors Segment Multilayer Chip RF Capacitors
Film Resistors Chip Antennas
TVS TRANSZORB® and PAR®
Metal Film Resistors Thin Film Capacitors
(unidirectional, bidirectional)
ESD Protection Diodes Thin Film Resistors Film Capacitors
(including arrays) Thick Film Resistors Power Capacitors
Thyristors / SCRs Power Thick Film Resistors Heavy-Current Capacitors
Metal Oxide Film Resistors Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors
Phase Control Thyristors
Carbon Film Resistors
Fast Thyristors ENYCAPTM Energy Storage Capacitors
Wirewound Resistors
IGBTs
Vitreous, Cemented, and Housed
Field Stop Trench
Resistors
Punch Through Trench
Braking and Neutral Grounding Resistors
Power Modules
Input Modules (diodes and thyristors) Custom Load Banks
Output and Switching Modules Power Metal Strip® Resistors
(contain MOSFETs, IGBTs, and diodes) Battery Management Shunts
Custom Modules Crowbar and Steel Blade Resistors
Thermo Fuses
Chip Fuses
Pyrotechnic Initiators / Igniters
Variable Resistors
Cement Variable Resistors
Wirewound Variable Resistors
Conductive Plastic Variable Resistors
Contactless Potentiometers

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V I S H AY I N T E R T E C H N O L O G Y, I N C .

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Mechanical (as applicable)

Electrical (as applicable)

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 2/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

What is a Current Shunt?

What is a Current Sensor?

Mechanical (as applicable)

Electrical (as applicable)

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 3/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Shunts/Current Sensors: Chips and SMD

WSL 0603, 0805, • 0.0005 Ω to 0.5 Ω

WSL2726 • 0.0003 Ω to 0.005 Ω

Vishay Dale WSL4026 • 0.0003 Ω to 0.005 Ω

WSL3921 / WSL5931 • 0.0001 Ω to 0.004 Ω

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 4/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Shunts/Current Sensors: Exposed-Element

Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 5/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Shunts, Low Ohm: High Power (100 W to 1000 W)

Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

5.43 to 14.69 • 0.068 Ω

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 6/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Shunts, Low Ohm: Mid-Power (10 W - 100 W)

Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

Shunts, Low Ohm: Low Power (1 W - 10 W)

Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 7/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Axial Leads

Sizes Length Power Rating Features Resistance Range, Tolerance,

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 8/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Radial Leads

Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

• 0.01 Ω / 0.1 Ω, 10 to 1 ratio divider

Current Sensors, Lower Ohm: Axial/Radial Leads

Product Sizes Length Power Rating Resistance Range, Tolerance,

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 9/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Characteristics and Design Considerations

Tolerance and Measurement of Figure 3. Kelvin Connection

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 10/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

Power Rating and Thermal Dissipation

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 11/17

SHUNTS, CURRENT SHUNTS, AND CURRENT-SENSING RESISTORS

One Short Pulse

If the pulse width is 10 milliseconds, the pulse power could be:

0.29 x 3600 x 1000

Equally Spaced Repetitive Pulses

Long Pulses (100 milliseconds to 5 seconds)

CAPABILITIES © 2018 VISHAY INTERTECHNOLOGY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 12/17