Corcom 20VK1 Power Line Filter

The Corcom 20VK1 is a single-phase EMI/RFI power line filter designed to attenuate conducted noise entering or leaving electrical equipment. Part of the TE Connectivity Corcom VK series, this filter is rated for 20A continuous current at 250V AC, making it suitable for industrial automation systems, variable frequency drives, power supplies, and PLC control panels. It reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) to comply with EMC standards.

Technical Specifications

Rated current: 20A at 40°C ambient. Rated voltage: 250V AC, 50/60Hz. Leakage current (at 250V AC, 50Hz): < 0.5 mA (line to ground). Insertion loss: (common mode and differential mode) measured per MIL-STD-220. Typical values: 25 dB at 150 kHz, 50 dB at 1 MHz, 60 dB at 10 MHz. Dielectric withstand voltage: 1500V AC line-to-ground (1 minute), 1450V AC line-to-line (1 minute). Termination type: quick connect (0.250-inch tabs) or screw terminals (depending on variant). The filter uses a metal enclosure with ground stud. Dimensions: 115 mm (L) x 57 mm (W) x 40 mm (H). Weight approximately 0.4 kg. Operating temperature: -10°C to +40°C (derated above 40°C).

Key Features

• Single-phase EMI filter, 20A / 250V AC

• High insertion loss for conducted noise

• Metal case with mounting flanges

• Low leakage current (<0.5mA) for safe use with GFCI

• Quick-connect terminals for easy wiring

• Approved by UL, CSA, VDE, and CE

• Typical applications: industrial controls, drives, PLCs

Filter Topology

The 20VK1 uses a two-stage LC filter consisting of differential mode inductors (L1, L2) and X-capacitors across the line, plus common mode chokes and Y-capacitors to ground. This topology effectively suppresses both differential and common mode noise from 150 kHz to 30 MHz. The filter is designed for conductive metal chassis mounting, ensuring low impedance path for noise to ground. The internal components are encapsulated to reduce vibration and arcing.

Installation and Wiring

Mount the filter using M4 screws through the flanges. Connect the line input (LINE) and output (LOAD) as marked. Use the shortest possible grounding path; connect the ground stud to the chassis earth with a < 10 cm copper braid or wire. Input and output wires should be separated to avoid re-radiation of noise. For optimal performance, install the filter as close as possible to the equipment’s power entry point. Do not bundle input and output cables together. The filter is not intended for hazardous voltages above 250V AC or for DC applications without derating.

Applications

The Corcom 20VK1 is commonly installed at the AC mains input of:

• Variable frequency drives (VFDs) for motor control

• Switching power supplies (24V, 48V, etc.)

• PLC and industrial computer systems

• CNC machine controllers

• Robotic power panels

It helps equipment meet CE EMC directives (EN 55011, EN 61000-6-3/4).

Safety and Compliance

The 20VK1 is UL Recognized (UL 1283), CSA Certified (C22.2 No. 8), VDE Approved (EN 60939), and RoHS compliant. It meets the requirements for use in pollution degree 2 environments. The filter does not contain a fuse; an external overcurrent protection device must be provided upstream.

Selection and Derating

The 20A rating applies at 40°C. At higher temperatures, derate the current linearly: 16A at 50°C, 12A at 60°C. For applications with high harmonic currents, ensure the RMS current does not exceed the rating. The filter is not suitable for use with variable frequency drives on the motor side (output filtering); it is intended for the input side only.

Conclusion

The Corcom 20VK1 power line filter provides effective EMI suppression for industrial equipment, ensuring compliance with electromagnetic compatibility standards. Its robust design, high current rating, and ease of mounting make it a dependable choice for control panels and automation systems.