The BT136-600E is rated for 600 V and 4 A RMS, it offers bidirectional conduction once triggered, making it well suited to dimmers, motor controllers, solid-state relays and other phase-control circuits. This article will discuss the BT136-600E’s operation, pinout, specifications, features, applications, and more.

Catalog

BT136-600E TRIAC Basics

The BT136-600E is a sensitive-gate TRIAC designed for efficient AC switching and control. It can handle up to 600 V and 4 A RMS, making it ideal for applications like dimmers, motor controllers, and solid-state relays. Its ability to conduct in both directions once triggered allows smooth and reliable control of AC loads.

This TRIAC features four-quadrant triggering, meaning it can be activated with various gate-to-terminal polarities. Its low gate-trigger current makes it easy to drive using low-power control circuits such as microcontrollers. Proper thermal management and snubber protection are recommended for inductive loads or high-power operation.

If you are interested in purchasing the BT136-600E TRIAC, feel free to contact us for pricing and availability.

BT136-600E TRIAC Pinout

BT136-600E TRIAC Alternatives

BT136-600E TRIAC Symbol

BT136-600E TRIAC Specifications

BT136-600E TRIAC Features

Sensitive gate triggering suitable for low-power control circuits

600 V blocking voltage for AC mains applications

4 A RMS on-state current rating

Four-quadrant triggering capability

Low holding current for efficient operation

High surge current capability up to 25 A

TO-220 package for excellent thermal performance

Bidirectional switching for full AC load control

Utilizing BT136-600E TRIAC

The BT136 TRIAC is a reliable solution for controlling AC loads such as lamps, heaters, and small motors. Its bidirectional conduction and four-quadrant triggering allow flexible switching in both halves of the AC cycle. To use it effectively, you must understand how to trigger the gate, protect the device, and safely interface it with control electronics.

The simple switching circuit shown below demonstrates the basic operation of the BT136:

In this circuit, the TRIAC (U1) is wired in series with the AC load (L1). Pressing the switch sends current through resistor R1 to the gate, which activates the TRIAC once the trigger threshold is reached. When triggered, the BT136 allows AC mains power to flow to the load. Because it is used in an AC system, the TRIAC naturally turns off at each zero crossing when the load current falls below the holding current.

For microcontroller control, always isolate the logic side from the mains. An optocoupler such as the MOC3021 or MOC3063 provides safe gating and prevents high-voltage feedback. A series gate resistor ensures stable triggering and protects the control circuit. This setup enables both basic on/off switching and advanced functions such as phase-angle dimming and power modulation.

When driving inductive loads like fans or transformers, add an RC snubber across the TRIAC to prevent false triggering caused by voltage spikes. A surge absorber such as a MOV further enhances protection. If the load approaches the TRIAC’s 4 A rating, attach a heatsink or provide adequate PCB copper to manage heat.

Before finalizing the design, confirm that the gate trigger current, surge capability, and thermal behavior meet your application requirements. Test the TRIAC with the actual load, especially when working with LED drivers or inductive equipment that may require additional protection or tuning.

BT136-600E TRIAC Applications

• Light dimmers for incandescent or LED lamps

• AC motor speed controllers (fans, drills, small appliances)

• Heater and temperature control circuits

• Solid-state relays (SSR) and AC switching modules

• Household appliance control (rice cookers, washing machines, induction devices)

• Phase angle control circuits for power regulation

• Timer and remote-controlled AC switching systems

• General-purpose low to medium-power AC load control

Comparison: BT136-600E vs. BT136-600D

BT136-600E TRIAC Mechanical Dimension

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global electronics manufacturer known for producing high-performance semiconductor solutions used in automotive, industrial, consumer, and communication systems. Founded originally as part of Philips, NXP specializes in microcontrollers, RF technologies, secure identification chips, and power electronics components such as TRIACs, MOSFETs, and analog devices.

Conclusion

The BT136-600E strikes a balance between sensitivity and robustness: it’s simple to trigger from logic circuits yet capable of handling common mains tasks with respectable surge tolerance. Whether you’re designing a lamp dimmer, heater controller, SSR or appliance control board, understanding its pinout, trigger behaviour, thermal limits and suitable alternatives (like higher-current TRIACs) helps ensure reliable performance. Use snubbers and correct heatsinking for inductive or continuous high-current loads, and choose an equivalent that matches VDRM, IT(RMS) and IGT for safe substitution.