What are MELF resistors?

MELF resistors, or Metal Electrode Leadless Face resistors, are specialised electrical passive components designed to provide a better performance, long-term stability, reliability and moisture resistance in the modern-day soldering processes. They are comparatively more expensive and are widely used in specific applications where a higher level of performance is a necessity. 

Basics of MELF resistors

The basic characteristics of MELF are:

• These components have a cylindrical shape and have metals at each end. 
• They are made of a high-grade ceramic body of 85% alumina and have a coating of a homogeneous film of metal alloy. 
• The metal ends of the cylindrical rod of the MELF have nickel-plated steel caps.
• The outside coating of the component acts as a protective covering and offers protection from different environmental conditions. 
• The MELF comes in a variety of sizes which include: MELF (MMB) 0207 L: 5.8 mm, Ø: 2.2 mm 1.0 W, 500 V; MiniMELF (MMA) 0204 L: 3.6 mm, Ø: 1.4 mm 0.25 W, 200 Vb and MicroMELF (MMU) 0102 L: 2.2 mm, Ø: 1.1 mm 0.2 W, 100 V.

Advantages 

MELF resistors have a very specific range of applications, particularly due to their extensive advantages. These include:

• A high level of reliability. 
• A better capability to enable predictable pulse handling. 
• A higher tolerance of 0.1% while manufacturing.
• A lower temperature coefficient while manufacturing.