High Voltage Resistor (100kV, 100W, 1MΩ–100MΩ)

Built for demanding high-voltage systems requiring controlled current flow, substantial energy handling, and reliable insulation, this non-inductive 100kV, 100W High Voltage Resistor is available in values from 1MΩ to 100MΩ. Typical applications include capacitor charging and discharging, bleeder networks, voltage dividers, voltage grading, pulse damping, high-impedance loads, and protection of high-voltage components.

A robust glass glaze resistive element provides stable electrical performance under demanding operating conditions. Its low-inductance, low-parasitic construction helps minimise ringing, transient overshoot, and waveform distortion compared with conventional wirewound resistors, making it suitable for pulse generators, capacitor banks, modulators, MOSFET switching systems, and laboratory HV equipment.

Lower resistance values within the range are useful where higher charging current, faster capacitor discharge, stronger output loading, or more effective transient damping is required. Higher values reduce current consumption and source loading, making them better suited to bleeder circuits, voltage sensing, measurement dividers, grading networks, and high-impedance monitoring.

In capacitor-based equipment, the resistor can limit charging current and reduce stress on rectifiers, transformers, semiconductor switches, and power supplies. It may also provide a controlled path for removing stored energy after power is disconnected, helping prevent capacitors and exposed terminals from remaining at a floating or hazardous voltage.

The stated 100W rating refers to the permitted average or continuous power dissipation under the specified operating conditions. During short pulses, the resistor may withstand instantaneous power levels many times higher—potentially several tens of times the average rating—depending on pulse duration, repetition rate, duty cycle, peak energy, cooling, and the applicable pulse-load limits. Average power and repetitive pulse energy must always remain within the permitted specifications.

Unlike the average power rating, the 100kV maximum voltage rating is an absolute limit and must not be exceeded, even during brief pulses. The applied voltage must also remain below the value permitted by the selected resistance and average power dissipation, calculated using P = V²/R. Some resistance values may therefore reach the 100W power limit before the full 100kV rating is reached.

The resistor can also be combined with other suitable components to create high-voltage divider chains, static grading networks, or balancing circuits. Correct design must account for resistance ratio, individual voltage limits, creepage and clearance distances, insulation, temperature rise, and circuit bandwidth. Fast-switching systems may additionally require capacitive or RC grading to control dynamic voltage distribution.

Typical applications include high-voltage DC power supplies, X-ray equipment, electrostatic generators, plasma systems, insulation testers, scientific instruments, accelerator-related equipment, pulse modulators, capacitor banks, and laboratory research circuits.

Full product information, including resistance options, maximum voltage, average power rating, tolerance, temperature coefficient, dimensions, terminal type, derating requirements, and operating temperature range, is listed under the Specification tab on this product page.

Available resistance values include 1 MΩ, 1.5 MΩ, 2.2 MΩ, 3.3 MΩ, 4.7 MΩ, 6.8 MΩ, 10 MΩ, 47 MΩ, and 100 MΩ.