ADuM5230 Data Sheet
Rev. C | Page 14 of 15
INSULATION LIFETIME
All insulation structures eventually break down when subjected
to voltage stress over a sufficiently long period. The rate of
insulation degradation depends on the characteristics of the
voltage waveform applied across the insulation. In addition to
the testing performed by the regulatory agencies, Analog
Devices conducts an extensive set of evaluations to determine
the lifetime of the insulation structure within the ADuM5230.
Analog Devices performs accelerated life testing using voltage
levels higher than the rated continuous working voltage.
Acceleration factors for several operating conditions are
determined. These factors allow calculation of the time to
failure at the actual working voltage. Table 7 summarizes the
peak voltages for 50 years of service life for a bipolar ac operating
condition and the maximum Analog Devices recommended
working voltages. In many cases, the approved working voltage
is higher than the 50-year service life voltage. Operation at these
high working voltages can lead to shortened insulation life in
some cases.
The insulation lifetime of the ADuM5230 depends on the
voltage waveform type imposed across the isolation barrier.
The iCoupler insulation structure degrades at different rates
depending on whether the waveform is bipolar ac, unipolar ac,
or dc. Figure 26, Figure 27, and Figure 28 illustrate these different
isolation voltage waveforms.
Bipolar ac voltage is the most stringent environment. The goal
of a 50-year operating lifetime under the ac bipolar condition
determines the maximum working voltage recommended by
Analog Devices.
In the case of unipolar ac or dc voltage, the stress on the insulation
is significantly lower. This allows operation at higher working
voltages while still achieving a 50-year service life. The working
voltages listed in Table 7 can be applied while maintaining the 50-
year minimum lifetime, provided the voltage conforms to either
the unipolar ac or dc voltage cases. Treat any cross-insulation
voltage waveform that does not conform to Figure 27 or Figure 28
as a bipolar ac waveform, and limit its peak voltage to the 50-year
lifetime voltage value listed in Table 7. Note that the voltage
presented in Figure 27 is shown as sinusoidal for illustration
purposes only. It is meant to represent any voltage waveform
varying between 0 V and some limiting value. The limiting value
can be positive or negative, but the voltage cannot cross 0 V.
0V
RATED PEAK VOLTAGE
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Figure 26. Bipolar AC Waveform
0V
RATED PEAK VOLTAGE
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Figure 27. Unipolar AC Waveform
0V
RATED PEAK VOLTAGE
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Figure 28. DC Waveform