Corcom 20VK1 EMI / RFI Power Line Filter (TE Connectivity)

The Corcom 20VK1 is a single‑phase EMI (electromagnetic interference) and RFI (radio frequency interference) power line filter manufactured by TE Connectivity (formerly Tyco Electronics / Corcom). It is rated for 20A continuous current at 250V AC, 50/60 Hz. The filter is designed to suppress conducted noise on the AC mains line, both in differential mode (line‑to‑line) and common mode (line‑to‑ground). It is typically installed at the power entry point of industrial equipment such as PLCs, drives, power supplies, and automation panels to meet EMC regulations (e.g., EN 55011, EN 61800‑3). The 20VK1 is part of the Corcom K series, known for its compact chassis‑mount flange design and high insertion loss across a wide frequency range.

Technical Specifications

Functional Description

The 20VK1 uses a passive LC (inductor‑capacitor) network to attenuate high‑frequency noise. The common mode choke (two windings on a single core) provides high impedance to common mode currents, while the X‑capacitor (across line and neutral) reduces differential mode noise. The filter also includes Y‑capacitors (line‑to‑ground) to shunt common mode noise to the chassis ground. The filter is suitable for both continuous and pulsed RFI environments, such as those caused by VFDs, switching power supplies, and PLC clock signals. It does not require an external heat sink and can be used in applications up to 40°C ambient without derating.

Wiring and Installation

The filter has a “line” side (input) and “load” side (output). Connect the AC mains supply to the input terminals (marked “L” and “N”). Connect the output terminals to the equipment’s power supply input. The ground tab must be connected to the chassis ground (protective earth) using a short, low‑impedance connection. For optimal performance, mount the filter as close as possible to the power entry point, and keep the input and output wiring separated to prevent capacitive coupling. Do not bundle input and output cables together. The filter is typically installed inside the equipment enclosure, with the flange screwed to the chassis panel.

Applications

The 20VK1 is used in industrial control panels, PLC systems, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servo drives, CNC machines, medical equipment, and telecom power supplies. It helps equipment meet international EMC standards for conducted emissions (e.g., EN 55011 Class B, CISPR 11). It is also used in conjunction with Corcom 20VK1‑compatible PLC racks (e.g., Novellus 2805-11407) as a mains filter module.

Regulatory Compliance

The filter is UL Recognized (File E69136), CSA Certified, and VDE approved. It meets the requirements of IEC 60939 (passive filter units for electromagnetic interference). The device is RoHS compliant. Leakage current is low enough for use in medical equipment (B‑type application with appropriate precautions).

Conclusion

The Corcom 20VK1 power line filter provides effective EMI/RFI suppression for industrial and automation equipment, ensuring reliable operation in electrically noisy environments while simplifying EMC certification.