Guidelines For Using Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor

To ensure customers obtain optimal performance and extend the lifespan of aluminum electrolytic capacitors, please carefully read these guidelines before use. Proper handling and adherence to these points will guarantee optimum capacitor performance and long life.

Product Attributes

• Brand: TOPAZCON ()
• Origin: China ()
• Type: Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor

Technical Specifications

The following sections detail important considerations for the use of aluminum electrolytic capacitors:

1. Polarity

DC electrolytic capacitors are polarized. Ensure correct polarity as marked on the capacitor body to prevent short circuits or damage. Use bipolar capacitors for applications with uncertain or fixed polarity. DC electrolytic capacitors are not suitable for AC applications.

2. Bipolar Capacitors

Bipolar capacitors are intended for pulse circuits and polarity reversal circuits only. They are not suitable for pure AC or high ripple current applications.

3. Voltage Rating

Do not exceed the rated voltage. Applying a voltage greater than the rated voltage will increase leakage current and may damage the capacitor. A recommended working voltage is 70-80% of the rated voltage to prolong capacitor life.

4. Ripple Current

Do not allow excessive ripple current to flow through the capacitor. Exceeding the permissible ripple current will cause the capacitor to heat up, potentially reducing capacitance and damaging the unit. The ripple current should generally not exceed 80% of the rated value.

5. Charge/Discharge Circuits

For circuits with rapid charge and discharge cycles, use specially designed capacitors. In such applications, capacitors may be damaged, leading to shortened lifespan due to capacitance decrease and heat rise. Ensure the use of specialized capacitors for these demanding applications.

6. Operating Temperature

Capacitor characteristics vary with operating temperature. At higher temperatures, capacitance and leakage current increase, while tg decreases. At lower temperatures, capacitance and leakage current decrease, and tg increases. Usage at lower temperatures will ensure a longer lifespan.

7. Temperature and Life Relationship

Capacitor lifespan is related to operating temperature. Generally, a 10C reduction in operating temperature doubles the lifespan compared to the rated temperature. The calculation formula is provided for reference.

8. Operating Frequency

Capacitance is typically measured at 100Hz or 120Hz. Capacitance decreases, and tg increases with rising frequency, which can also lead to increased ambient temperature.

9. Long-Term Storage

Capacitors stored for extended periods may experience increased leakage current and reduced withstand voltage, though capacitance and tg are generally unaffected. Before use, apply rated DC voltage gradually to capacitors that have been stored for a long time.

10. Case Insulation

The capacitor case is not insulated from the cathode terminal. If the case requires insulation from the circuit, appropriate insulation measures must be taken at the capacitor's mounting point.

11. Force on Terminals/Leads

Do not apply excessive force to terminals or leads. This can cause leads to break, terminals to separate, and internal connections to fail.

12. Bending Leads

When bending leads for horizontal mounting, maintain a 2mm safe spacing from the capacitor body to prevent internal structural damage.

13. Circuit Board Cleaning

Clean circuit boards after soldering to remove flux. To protect the capacitor's sleeve, marking, and sealing materials, avoid using halogenated solvents (e.g., trichlorethylene, xylene, acetone). Recommended cleaning solvents include methanol, isopropanol, ethanol, isobutanol, petroleum ether, propanol, and general detergents.

14. Soldering Precautions

Keep soldering irons away from the plastic insulated sleeves. When dipping capacitors in a solder bath, the temperature should not exceed 260C, and the duration should not exceed 10 seconds to prevent damage to the capacitor unit.

15. Hole Layout on Circuit Boards

When designing circuit boards, ensure mounting hole spacing matches lead spacing. Deviations can stress leads, leading to short circuits, circuit damage, or increased leakage current. Carefully consider hole layout to prevent solder splashing onto the vinyl sleeve.