Switched-Capacitor Converters—Is MLCC Lifetime A Concern?

Focus:

In a switched-capacitor converter (SCC) design, the flying capacitors--typically MLCCs—are switched between input and output capacitances, transferring energy from input to output in every switching cycle. The increased RMS ripple current on these capacitors represents a potential design weakness, especially in high-current SCC switchers like the 12-A LTC7825. To assess MLCC lifetime, it is essential to analyze their RMS currents at the expected ambient temperature. This article shows how to simulate the ripple current through the capacitors. The formula for the estimated lifetime of the capacitors is presented along with the calculation of the lifetime of the most stressed capacitors in the SCCs. Finally, the article discusses differences among capacitor types and gives recommendations on capacitor selection for improved lifetime.

What you’ll learn:

• How to determine MLCC lifetime for the flying capacitors in switched-capacitor converters
• How to select MLCC capacitors to improve reliability in switched-capacitor converters

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Author & Publication:

Erich Horňan, Analog Devices, Munich, Germany, How2Power Today, Mar 15 2026

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