I have a bunch of 10A10 rectifier diodes (datasheet:
http://www.rectron.com/data_sheets/10a05-10a10.pdf). They're rated for 10A current.
Since the IR heater element is rated at 15A, that's obviously more current than the diodes can handle. But could I wire 2 of the diodes in parallel, so that only 7.5A is passing through each one?
I've read that some people say it's fine most of the time, and that it's rare for problems to arise from using diodes in parallel. But others seem to say that since the diodes are never the same rating, that one will get hotter than the other, causing it to absorb more current, and then get hotter, etc.
What do you guys think? Is it too risky to use the diodes in parallel like that? Or is it wrong for my particular application? Am I overlooking anything with this idea?
I'm not sure if I'm ever actually going to do this. I'm just interested in learning about the possibilities.
Thanks!