Introduction

Introduction
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Vishay Roederstein
Aluminum Capacitors
SYMBOLS AND TECHNICAL TERMS
Revision: 30-Jan-14
SYMBOLS
DESCRIPTION
C
Capacitance
CR
Rated capacitance
U
Voltage
UR
Rated voltage
US
Surge voltage
UB
Working voltage, operating voltage
Urev
Reverse voltage
I, I~, IAC
Alternating current
IR
Rated alternating current, ripple current
IL
Leakage current
ILt
Leakage current for acceptance test
ILB, IOP
Operational leakage current
R
Resistance
RESR; ESR
Equivalent series resistance
Ris
Insulation resistance
L
Inductance
LESL, ESL
Equivalent series inductance
tan 
Dissipation factor (tangent of loss angle)
Z
Impedance
X
Reactance
XC, ZC
Capacitive reactance
XL, ZL
Inductive reactance
T
Temperature
Tamb
Ambient temperature
Ts
Surface temperature
T
Difference of temperature, temperature rise
TUC
Upper category temperature
TLC
Lower category temperature
f
Frequency
fr
Resonance frequency
=2f
Angular frequency
Fs
Case surface area

Failure rate
L
Lifetime multiplier
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Introduction
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DESIGN AND POLARITY
CLASSIFICATION
The dielectric of an electrolytic capacitor with aluminum
electrodes is made of aluminum oxide. One end of the
dielectric sits firmly on an aluminum foil - the anode - while
the other end sits on a liquid or solid electrolyte - the
cathode. Power to the cathode is supplied via a second
aluminum foil having a natural oxide layer as a dielectric with
a blocking effect of just 1 V to 2 V. (Many years of use have
resulted in wrongly describing this power supply foil as
“cathode”). In its basic design the electrolytic capacitor is
thus a direct current polarity-dependent capacitor (polarized
style) with the positive pole being applied to the anode.
Depending on applications and requirements, electrolytic
capacitors are classified as:
Apart from these so-called polarized electrolytic capacitors
there are non-polarized capacitors available where the
power supply foil is replaced by a second anode foil of the
same type (non-polarized, bipolar style). This specific
design allows operation with direct current of any polarity,
as well as with pure alternating current.
STORAGE LIFE
Ris
C
+
RESR
LESL
-
C = Capacitance of the oxide layer
Ris = Oxide layer insulation resistance
RESR = Equivalent series resistance
LESL = Equivalent series inductance
Dielectric layer
Cathode
Anode
Electrolyte
Power supply
foil
Aluminum foil
(highly etched)
a) Long-life grade (LL)
Electrolytic
capacitors
requirements.
designed
b) General-purpose grade (GP)
Electrolytic
capacitors
designed
requirements.
for
for
increased
general
Furthermore, all capacitor types have been subdivided by
their application classes according to DIN 40040.
During transport or storage, the temperature of electrolytic
capacitors is allowed to fall below their lower category
temperature and reach a minimum of -65 °C, while their
upper category temperature may not be exceeded.
Depending on the design and the purity of the materials
used, electrolytic capacitors offer very good storage
properties. They can be stored in dry rooms at temperature
ranging from -40 °C to +40 °C (preferably between 0 °C and
+25 °C) for up to three years without any restriction. Within
that period it is possible to apply the fully-rated voltage to
the capacitors without any further preparation. This
procedure neither impairs the capacitor’s operational
reliability nor its life expectancy.
All electrolytic capacitors have a leakage current when a
direct current is applied. This leakage current depends on
time, voltage, and temperature. After long dead storage this
leakage current will increase and, for a short time, can be
10 times greater at the time of reuse. The capacitor will not
be damaged and its life expectancy will not be impaired if
the rated voltage is applied directly after long storage. In
general, the expected continuous operating leakage current
will be re-attained or fall below its value after about
30 minutes. Any operation below the rated voltage will result
in a significantly lower leakage current.
ELECTRICAL PARAMETERS
Aluminum foil,
etched
Al2O3
(electrochemical oxide
layer (forming)
Al2O3
(natural oxide layer)
Electrolyte paper
(spacer)
Fig. 1 - Basic design of an electrolytic capacitor and
equivalent circuit diagram
Revision: 30-Jan-14
Rated Voltage UR and Operating Voltage UB
The rated voltage is defined as the voltage for which the
capacitor has been designed and after which it is
designated. The operating voltage may be smaller, but may
never exceed the rated voltage value. A reduction in the
operating voltage will not significantly increase the
capacitor’s lifetime. The capacitors may be charged with the
specified rated direct voltage in the specified operating
temperature range. In case of ripple alternating voltage, the
peak voltage value must not exceed the rated value.
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Introduction
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Surge Voltage US
The surge voltage is defined as the maximum voltage which
may be applied to the capacitor for a short time
only (in one hour a maximum of five times with a duration of
one minute each.) The surge voltage may not be used for
periodic charge and discharge.
US = 1.15 x UR for UR  250 V
US = 1.10 x UR for UR > 250 V
Fig. 2 - Detail from an equivalent circuit diagram for
two surface elements
The ripple voltage is defined as the effective value
alternating voltage with which the capacitor may be charged
in addition to direct voltage. The peak value of resulting
ripple DC voltage must not exceed the rated voltage value.
A reverse polarity voltage with a peak value of > 1.5 V must
not occur.
Reverse Voltage Urev
C
C20 °C
Ripple Alternating Voltage
1.2
1.1
1.0
0.9
6.3 V
A reverse polarity of up to 1.5 V is permissible.
0.8
CAPACITANCE
0.7
Rated Capacitance CR
0.6
- 40
The rated capacitance is defined as the capacitance value,
after which the capacitor has been designated. The
capacitance value may vary within the permissible tolerance
limits.
Alternating Voltage Capacitance CW
The AC capacitance normally corresponds to the rated
capacitance value. It is determined by measuring the AC
resistance at an AC voltage of  0.5 V. Since AC capacitance
depends on frequency and temperature, a specific
measuring frequency and temperature have to be agreed
upon. IEC 60384-4 stipulates a frequency of 100 Hz and a
temperature of 20 °C.
100 V
40 V
16 V
- 20
0
20
40
60
80
[°C]
Fig. 3 - Typical temperature dependent
behavior of AC capacitance
Frequency Dependence of AC Capacitance
The frequency dependence of AC capacitance is similar to
its temperature dependence. The capacitive partial
resistance ZCi decreases with increasing frequency f. At the
same time the influence of the ohmic partial resistance Ri of
the AC resistance Zi is increasing. In this case, too,
“high-resistive coupled surface elements have a lower
capacitive effect”.
Direct Voltage Capacitance CDC
EQUIVALENT SERIES RESISTANCE RESR
The DC capacitance is determined from the quantity of
charge which is stored after a DC voltage charging of the
capacitor. The measurement is effected during a single
discharge under specified conditions. The measuring
procedures are described in DIN 41 328. If both values, C
and CDC, are measured at an electrolytic capacitor, the
result will always be: C < CDC.
Depending on the design CDC  (1.05...1.30) x C.
The equivalent series resistance is defined as the ohmic part
of the AC resistance describing the losses occurring in an
electrolytic capacitor. It consists of three partial resistance
values: the lead and the foil resistance, the electrolyte paper
resistance, and the oxide layer resistance. Just as any other
ohmic resistance, RESR is temperature-dependent, too.
Moreover, it contains a frequency-dependent part - the
oxide layer resistance. RESR is usually calculated from the
dissipation factor tan  as follows:
Temperature Dependence of AC Capacitance
The measured AC capacitance decreases with falling
temperatures. Falling temperatures result in an increased
viscosity of electrolyte and thus in an increasing ohmic
resistance. In fact, a model calculation shows that the total
capacitance of capacitive surface elements which are
parallel connected via different series resistors R1, R2, etc.
will decrease, if the series resistors increase. Usually this
behavior is described as follows: “High-resistive coupled
surface elements have a lower capacitive effect.”
Revision: 30-Jan-14
tan 
tan 
R ESR = ------------ = ---------------------------------C
2xxfxC
RESR []
C [F]
f [Hz]
In practical operation the lower limit of the RESR is given by
the ohmic part of the contact points and the foil resistance
values. Thus it will not always be possible to achieve
calculated values below 0.03 .
The foil resistance and RESR can further be reduced by using
the multiple tab technique. This technique consists of
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ESR
ESR20 °C
creating multiple contact points with the outer contact
elements distributed uniformly across the anode and
cathode foils. At the same time, the RESR-dependent
capacitor values such as the dissipation factor, the
impedance, and the maximum AC rating are clearly
improved.
Z
C RESR L
1
ωC
ωL
5
RESR
(- 25 °C)
3
2
6.3 V
RESR
(+ 25 °C)
10
25 V
5
100 V
3
2
fr
f
Fig. 6 - Idealized frequency dependent impedance curve at
+25 °C and -25 °C
1
0.5
40
20
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
[°C]
Fig. 4 - Temperature dependence of RESR (approx. values)
DISSIPATION FACTOR tan 
The dissipation factor tan  is defined as the ratio between
the equivalent series resistance RESR and the reactance
ZL, C = L - 1/C (see Fig. 5). It is frequency-dependent via
the reactance ZL, C and temperature dependent via the
equivalent series resistance RESR.
ωL
1
ωC
Fig. 5 - Vector diagram of the AC values of an electrolytic capacitor
IMPEDANCE Z
The amount of impedance Z of an electrolytic capacitor is
calculated from the geometrical sum of the capacitive
reactance ZC = 1/C of the inductive reactance ZL = L and
of the equivalent series resistance RESR.
R
2
ESR
+  L- 1/C 
2
Figure 6 shows the ideal frequency curve of the impedance
indicated on a double-logarithmic scale. The strong
temperature dependence of the RESR value can also be
seen.
Revision: 30-Jan-14
The leakage current is defined as the current flowing
through the capacitor when a direct voltage is applied
subsequent to the charging of the capacitor. Generally
speaking, this leakage current is caused by “defects” in the
oxide dielectric. These defects range from crystal defects,
stress, cracks, and installation-related damage, to a partial
solution caused by the operating electrolyte. The leakage
current is a measure of the “forming state”, i.e. of the
regeneration to be effected on the oxide dielectric. This
current depends on a multitude of factors, such as time,
voltage, temperature, type of electrolyte, and “history” of the
capacitor.
Time Dependence of the Leakage Current
RESR
Z =
LEAKAGE CURRENT IL
At the moment the measuring voltage is applied, a peak
current occurs which depends on the capacitor’s forming
state as well as on the internal resistance of the voltage
source. When the measuring voltage (charging of the
capacitor) is reached, the current first drops with time until it
takes on a small, nearly constant final value which ideally is
only determined by the dynamic balance (temperature and
voltage dependent) between the build-up and reduction of
the oxide layer. This value is the operational leakage current
ILB. As can be expected, the operational leakage current
level depends on the (measuring) voltage applied and on the
temperature. Furthermore, the value of the operational
leakage current is determined by the effective surface of the
etched aluminum foil (capacitance of the capacitor), the type
of electrolyte, and the level of the anode’s (pre)forming
voltage. Since the measurement of the operational leakage
current, due to the long measurement period
(10 < tM 60 min), will be feasible only in specific cases,
shorter measurement periods of preferably one minute or
five minutes have been accepted for general measurement
regulations. The values measured in this way are described
as leakage current for acceptance tests. In this case, the
measuring voltage corresponds to the rated voltage of the
capacitor.
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IL
1
IL (UB)
IL (UR)
0.8
0.6
A
Operational
leakage current
ILtM
tM
0.4
B
t
0.2
UB
UR
Fig. 7 - Typical variation with time of the leakage current
0.2
Voltage Dependence of the Leakage Current
0.6
0.8
1
Fig. 8a - Typical size dependant relation (see text)
Temperature Dependence of the Leakage Current
Although there are numerous causes for leakage current,
only one can be described as having a more clearly defined
temperature dependence - i.e. the dynamic balance
between partial solution and build-up of the oxide layer. As
a measure of this parameter the operating leakage current
ILB has been introduced under section “Time dependence of
the leakage current”. The model of the rate of (electro)
chemical reactions increasing with temperature can be
qualitatively applied here. Hence it follows that ILB increases
with temperature. Figure 9 shows some empirical values.
ILB(J)
ILB(20°C)
Figure 8 shows the qualitative leakage current behavior. The
leakage current IL increases with the operating voltage UB.
The more the operating voltage approaches the (pre)forming
voltage UF of the anode, the steeper the slope (exponential
rise), especially after exceeding the rated voltage UR. The
leakage current, however, loses more and more of its
original meaning. Specifically in the US...UF range the
current can no longer be described as the measure of the
regeneration work to be effected on the oxide layer. Above
the surge voltage US there is an increasing tendency
towards secondary reactions such as temperature rise,
heavy formation of gas, electrolyte degradation, and
inappropriate formation of oxide. For this reason any
continuous operation above the rated voltage UR is not
tolerable. The conditions for exceeding the rated voltage on
a short-time basis are stipulated under the heading “surge
voltage” (see surge voltage US).
0.4
14
12
The hatched area in Figure 8a illustrates an empirical
evaluation of practical leakage current measurements. It
shows the recommended approximate values for the
relative leakage current dependence of UB for UB  UR.
10
Curve A describes a small capacitor with a low rated voltage
(e.g. 6 V) and a one minute leakage current value in the order
of 1 μA. Curve B is typical of a middle sized high-voltage
capacitor (e.g. UR = 350 V) with a 1-minute leakage current
value of approximatly 100 μA (at room temperature).
4
8
6
2
0
0
10
20
30
40
50
60 70
80 90 100
Temperature [°C]
Fig. 9 - Typical variation of leakage current with temperature
IL
Leakage Current for Acceptance Test ILt
UR US
UF
UB
IEC 60384-4 and EN 130300 stipulate the measurement
procedures for determining the leakage current for
acceptance tests ILt. Based on these standards and due to
different measuring periods (30 s, ILo.5; 2 min, IL2; 5 min, IL5)
the threshold values for the Vishay Roederstein electrolytic
capacitors are those that are calculated from the leakage
current equations of the respective type specifications.
Fig. 8 - Typical variation of leakage current with applied voltage
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Introduction
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ALTERNATING CURRENT
The alternating current is defined as the effective value of
the alternating current with which the capacitor is charged.
Rated Alternating Current IR
The permissible rated alternating current is defined in such
a way that at an upper category temperature TUC and at a
frequency of 100 Hz (measuring frequency of capacitance
and dissipation factor), the temperature of the case surface
area rises by 3 K. The resulting AC values IR are indicated in
the datasheets for each capacitor.
Maximum Permissible Alternating Current I, AC Rating
The maximum permissible alternating current rating
depends on ambient temperature Tamb' case surface area
Fs' equivalent series resistance RESR (or the dissipation
factor tan ), as well as on excess surface temperature T
(temperature rise, difference between surface temperature
Ts and ambient temperature Tamb). The permissible
temperature rise T is specified by the respective
manufacturer. For Vishay Roederstein electrolytic
capacitors this value is based on IEC 60384-4 and is 3 K in
relation to the upper category temperature TUC. Due to the
temperature and frequency dependence of the equivalent
series resistance RESR (or the dissipation factor tan ) the
maximum permissible alternating current is also dependent
on the alternating current frequency f. Since the life
expectancy of an electrolytic capacitor is considerably
determined by its thermal load (permutation model, see
section Lifetime), the temperature rise caused by an AC load
presents a significant factor of the capacitor's lifetime. The
individual lifetime tables show the interrelation between the
maximum permissible alternating current I, the ambient
temperature Tamb' the surface temperature Ts' the
alternating current frequency f, as well as the lifetime.
(Sections Standard Lifetime Conversion Table and Type
Specific Lifetime Conversion Table explain the use of these
tables.)
ELECTRICAL STRENGTH OF THE INSULATION
The insulating sleeve can withstand a voltage of at least
1000 V.
INSULATION RESISTANCE OF THE INSULATION
The insulation resistance of the sleeve material is a minimum
of 100 M.
CLIMATIC CONDITIONS
For reasons of reliability and due to the temperature
dependence of electrical parameters certain limits have to
be observed for the climatic conditions. The upper and
lower category temperature are considered important
climatic conditions for electrolytic capacitors. Furthermore
the degree of humidity has to be taken into account. These
three values are indicated in coded form in the applicability
class and lEG climatic category (see section Climatic and
Applicability Categories).
Revision: 30-Jan-14
Vishay Roederstein
Upper Category Temperature TUC
The use of electrolytic capacitors is subject to specific upper
temperature limits. Exceeding these limits may result in early
failure of the capacitor. To avoid this, upper category
temperatures are fixed which indicate the maximum
permissible ambient temperature of the capacitor for
continuous operation. The upper category temperature is
given with the temperature range value in the datasheets.
Sections Maximum Permissible Alternating Current I, AC
Rating and Lifetime have shown that the electrolytic
capacitor's lifetime and reliability depend considerably on
the capacitor's temperature. This is why Vishay recommend
using the capacitor at the lowest temperature possible to
increase lifetime and reliability. Furthermore, Vishay
recommend mounting the electrolytic capacitors inside the
units at positions having a low ambient temperature.
Lower Category Temperature TLC
Due to an impaired electrolytic conductivity, a decreasing
temperature results in higher values for impedance and
dissipation factor (or RESR values). Most capacitor
applications limit such an increase to specific threshold
values. For this reason it is practical to stipulate a lower
category temperature which is also indicated in the
temperature range value given in the datasheet. It should be
emphasized, however, that an operation below the specified
lower category temperature is possible without damaging
the capacitor. This is particularly true if the capacitor is
exposed to an alternating-current load. Compared to the
lower ambient temperature, the alternating current flowing
through the increased equivalent series resistance can heat
the electrolytic capacitor to such an extent, that its
properties still ensure proper functioning of the unit.
Climatic and Applicability Categories
According to DIN 40040 the applicability class is given in
form of a three-letter code. The IEC publication indicates a
so-called Category (IEC Climatic Category). The datasheets
list both specifications. The first letter in the DIN 40040
formula stands for the lower category temperature, the
second for the upper category temperature, and the third for
the permissible humidity.
40 / 085 / 56
56 days damp heat (tested according to IEC 60068-1)
Upper category temperature 85 °C
Lower category temperature - 40 °C
DIN CLIMATIC CATEGORY
1st letter 
F
G
H
lower category
-55 °C
-40 °C
-25 °C
temperature
M
2nd letter 
P
K
100 °C
upper category
85 °C
125 °C
(105 °C)
temperature
3rd letter 
C
D
E
relative humidity/
 95 %
 80 %
 75 %
annual average
100 %
100 %
95 %
30 days/year max.
100 %
90 %
85 %
occasional formation
of dew permissible
yes
yes
yes (1)
S
70 °C
F
 75 %
95 %
85 %
yes
Note
(1) Rare and mild formation of dew permissible
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HOW TO USE ELECTROLYTIC CAPACITORS
Saftey vent
Date of Manufacture (Code) IEC 60062
The month and the year of manufacture are indicated. The
year is given first, followed by the month.
CODE (YEAR)
CODE (MONTH)
2009
X
January
1
2010
A
February
2
2011
B
March
3
2012
C
April
4
2013
D
May
5
2014
E
June
6
2015
F
July
7
2016
H
August
8
2017
J
September
9
2018
K
October
0
2019
L
November
N
2020
M
December
D
90°
Fig. 10 - Recommended mounting position
We recommend not to have PC-board traces below radial
aluminum electrolytic capacitors.
Low and High Pressure
Vishay Roederstein electrolytic capacitors may be used at
any low pressure and at any altitude. The operating
temperature should not fall below the lower category
temperature. The capacitors may not be used at pressures
exceeding 120 kPa.
Example: 2007 May: V5
Cleaning, Moulding
Alternatively it is possible to indicate the year and the week.
In this case the first two figures indicate the year and the last
two the week.
Halogenated
hydrocarbons,
particularly
CFCs
(chlorofluorocarbons), are frequently used for the cleaning
of boards. There are for instance several FREON types
(registered trademark of Du Pont) based on 1,1,1Trichlorotrifluoroethane.
Example: 2003, 20th week: 0320
Pulse Handling
Vishay Roederstein electrolytic capacitors exhibit good
pulse handling characteristics. However, due to
continuously increased surface gain of anode foils, absolute
compliance with the IEC requirement
C
6
--------  ± 10 % after 10 switching cycles
C
cannot be guaranteed without taking specific measures,
which need prior agreement.
Vibration Resistance
If not otherwise indicated in the datasheets, the lEC
publication 60068-2 is applicable: Test FC at 5 g; stress
period: 1.5 h; frequency 10 Hz to 55 Hz, maximum
displacement 0.35 mm.
Mounting Position
Care should be taken when mounting capacitors which have
a pressure release valve. In vertical mounting the valve
should always be at the top to avoid electrolytic leakage if
the pressure valve is triggered. Similarly, when mounting the
capacitor in a horizontal position the pressure valve should
be in the “12- o’clock position”.
The manufacturers of aluminum electrolytic capacitors warn
against the use of these solvents since a corrosive effect on
aluminium is definitely possible. This corrosive mechanism,
which may be triggered by the external influence of
compounds containing CFCs, is very complex and can lead
to consequential changes. Only the strict compliance with a
number of clearly defined conditions can provide any
protection against the penetration of solvents. We do not
consider it necessary to list the conditions here but would
advise you against using halogenated compounds for
cleaning. Moreover, you should check whether the plastic
insulation is resistant to the detergent you want to use.
Ketone type solvents (e.g. acetone, methyl ethyl ketone) and
ester type solvents (e.g. ethyl acetate, butyl acetate) should
preferably not be used or only after checking their effect in
the cleaning process. The same applies to aromatic
hydrocarbons (e.g. xylenes) and aliphatic hydrocarbons
(e.g. petroleum ether).
We recommend using water-based or alcohol-based
detergents (e.g. ethanol, isopropanol, isobutyl alcohol,
various ethylene glycols, etc.). We also recommend
continuous monitoring of the cleaning bath in order to avoid
the accumulation of corrosive agents (e.g. chlorides from
solder residues, possibly sulphonates from surface active
agents). Careful drying should immediately follow cleaning.
Similar procedures should be observed when electrolytic
capacitors are varnished or moulded. Care must be taken
that any varnish or moulding components such as resin,
hardener, accelerator, thinner, filler, coloring matter, etc. do
not contain any halogen.
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ELECTROLYTE
The operating electrolyte is an electrically conductive liquid.
Its composition differs according to type and voltage range.
A polar organic liquid of a high boiling point with a certain
amount of salt provides its ionic conductivity. Halogenated
hydrocarbons are not used. Water may occur as a
constituent of the electrolyte. The salts used can be organic
or inorganic.
The electrolytes can be mixed with water. Since they have
an almost neutral pH value, there will be no acidic or caustic
reaction. Its flash point is always above 80 °C. They do not
contain any easily or highly ignitable agents and no
explosive substances.
Great attention is given to selecting only those electrolytic
constituents that combine the least possible toxicity with the
utmost environmental compatibility. Unfortunately the
present state of technological development does not always
enable us to fully avoid the use of substances which are
considered harmful. However, we do not use highly toxic,
carcinogenic, or questionable compounds. Extreme care
should be taken when handling electrolytic liquid that has
leaked out.
- Avoid skin contact
- Do not inhale vapors
- Provide sufficient ventilation
If the electrolyte has come into contact with your skin,
mucous membrane, or eyes, immediately rinse carefully for
several minutes under running water. Remove affected
clothing. Seek medical attention if you have swallowed any
liquid.
We would like to remind you that the following errors will
trigger the safety mechanism and may result in a discharge
of electrolytic fluid:
- Reverse polarity
- Excessive voltage
- Excessive current load
- Overheating
DISPOSAL OF USED ALUMINUM
ELECTROLYTIC CAPACITORS
Due to potential harmful effects to the environment, special
regulations have to be observed which dictate the disposal
of capacitors as toxic waste.
Important remarks:
The aluminum electrolytic capacitors do not contain any
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) or similar substances that
may produce dioxins when burning. Moreover, during
manufacture we do not use any substances that may harm
the ozone layer.
OPERATIONAL RELIABILITY
The specifications regarding the reliability of electrolytic
capacitors refer to:
1) The failure rate during operation
2) The beginning of wear-out failures (end of lifetime)
a
failure
rate
manufacture
Early failure
region
b
user
c
lifetime
Region with
constant failure rate
time
Region of
wear-out failures
Fig. 11 - Failure rate () as a function of time (“bath-tub life curve”)
Early failures (region a) of electrolytic capacitors occur
during the manufacturing process and are eliminated. We
normally expect a constant low failure rate () during the
stated lifetime of capacitors (region b). Subsequently the
electrolytic capacitors will tend to suffer failures due to
drying out (region c).
Endurance Test
IEC 60384-4 and EN 130300 define the criteria for
permissible changes in the values of electrical parameters
following endurance tests at rated voltage and upper
category temperature. The duration and the conditions for
the specific capacitor types are given in the respective
separate specifications. The endurance test does not allow
any direct assessment of the lifetime of an electrolytic
capacitor. Therefore the duration of the test must not be
confused with the indicated lifetime of the respective
capacitor type.
If one of the following conditions is not met, the capacitor
has failed the test.
FAILURE CRITERIA FOR ENDURANCE TEST
RATIO OF FINAL VALUE TO SPECIFIED THRESHOLD VALUE
CRITERIA
VOLTAGE RANGE
(V)
CHANGE IN CAPACITANCE
(%)
tan 
Z
IL
A
6.3  UR
6.3 < UR  160
160 < UR
-40  C/C  +25
-30  C/C  +30
-15  C/C  +15
 1.5
3
1
B
6.3  UR
6.3 < UR  160
160 < UR
-30  C/C  +15
-15  C/C  +15
-10  C/C  +10
 1.3
2
1
C
16  UR
16 > UR
-25  C/C  +25
-20  C/C  +20
 1.5
 1.5
-
1
-20  C/C  +20
2
2
1
E
-15  C/C  +15
 1.5
2
1
F
-20  C/C  +20
2
-
1
G
-20  C/C  +20
 1.5
-
1
D
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Lifetime
Failure Rate
The lifetime is defined as the period during which a specified
failure rate is not exceeded under given operating
conditions and under specified failure criteria. The indicated
lifetime usually is based on a 60 % upper confidence level.
The failure rate  (fit = failure time) is defined as the quotient
of the number of failures, and the product of the number of
test components and the test period (component operating
time).
The lifetime is continuously confirmed by accelerated
sample tests at the upper category temperature. At
temperatures > 40 °C for every temperature rise of 10K the
acceleration factor for electrolytic capacitors is assumed to
halve the lifetime at the same failure rate (10K rule).
Number of failures
 = -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Number of test components x test period
In principle, the lifetime is determined by the loss of
electrolyte. The degree of electrolyte loss (diffusion through
the sealing elements) depends on the time, the electrolytic
vapor pressure, the individual interaction of electrolytic
solvent with the sealing materials and geometric factors.
For practical purposes, the temperature dependence is
described by way of an equation which was used by
Arrhenius to describe the effect of temperature on the rate
of chemical reactions. The frequently used 10K rule only
provides a practical approximation formula for usual
temperature range.
Failure Criteria for Lifetime Indication
Based on IEC 60384-4 or EN1300300, the indicated lifetime
values are defined as follows:
a) Load factors
-Rated voltage UR
The failure rate provides the basis for reliability forecasts.
Usually the failure rate is given with the unit 10-9/h = 1 fit
(failure in time) at an UCL (Upper Confidence Level) of 60 %.
The failure rates indicated apply to Tamb = 40 °C UB = 0.5 x
UR. The failure rate is temperature and voltage dependent. 
The conversion table given below shall be used in the case
of other conditions.
Load Voltage
RATED VOLTAGE LOAD
CONVERSION FACTOR
100 %
2.0
75 %
1.4
50 %
1.0
25 %
0.8
10 %
0.6
TEMPERATURE
CONVERSION FACTOR
 40 °C
1
55 °C
3
70 °C
8
-Rated alternating current IR
85 °C
20
-Upper category temperature TUC
105 °C
90
125 °C
360
b) Failure criteria
LL GRADE
(LONG LIFE)
GP GRADE
(GENERAL
PURPOSE)
FAILURE
PARAMETER
Complete
All
Short circuit or break
Change
failure
tan  or RESR
IL
Z
> 3 x initial threshold value
> initial threshold value
> 3 x initial threshold value
C/C
> ± 30 %
> ± 40 %
The ratio between complete failure and change failure
should be 1:9.
Revision: 30-Jan-14
Cumulative Failure Frequency
The share of failed components during a stress period (to be
specified).
STANDARD LIFETIME CONVERSION TABLE
The lifetime conversion table is used to describe the relation
between user current, ambient temperature and lifetime at
various frequencies. It should be used to determine lifetime
under the conditions in the application. The following
standard table applies to all types where no specific
conversion table has been integrated in the datasheet. The
table indicates minimum values.
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STANDARD LIFETIME CONVERSION TABLE
TUC - 30
TUC - 25
TUC - 20
TUC - 15
TUC - 10
TUC - 5
596
560
505
437
362
288
220
161
113
76
49
30
18
10
5.7
3.0
1.5
298
280
252
218
181
144
110
80
56
38
25
15
9.1
5.2
2.8
1.5
149
140
126
109
91
72
55
40
28
19
12
7.6
4.5
2.6
1.4
75
70
63
55
45
36
27
20
14
9.5
6.1
3.8
2.3
1.3
37
35
32
27
23
18
14
10
7.1
4.8
3.1
1.9
1.1
26
25
22
19
16
13
9.7
7.1
5.0
3.4
2.2
1.3
19
18
16
14
11
9.0
6.9
5.0
3.5
2.4
1.5
13
12
11
9.6
8.0
6.4
4.9
3.6
2.5
1.7
1.1
9.3
8.8
7.9
6.8
5.7
4.5
3.4
2.5
1.8
1.2
6.6
6.2
5.6
4.8
4.0
3.2
2.4
1.8
1.2
4.7
4.4
3.9
3.4
2.8
2.3
1.7
1.3
3.3
3.1
2.8
2.4
2.0
1.6
1.2
2.33
2.19
1.97
1.71
1.41
1.13
TUC
TUC - 35
0.1
0.5
1.2
2.1
3.3
4.8
6.5
8.4
11
13
16
19
22
26
30
34
38
TUC - 40
0.2
0.5
0.7
0.9
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.9
2.1
2.3
2.6
2.8
3.0
3.3
3.5
3.7
4.0
TUC - 45
> 2500
0.2
0.4
0.7
0.9
1.1
1.3
1.6
1.8
2.0
2.2
2.5
2.7
2.9
3.1
3.3
3.6
3.8
TUC - 55
1000
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.9
1.1
1.3
1.5
1.7
1.9
2.2
2.4
2.6
2.8
3.0
3.2
3.5
3.7
TUC - 65
500
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.1
1.3
1.5
1.7
1.9
2.1
2.3
2.5
2.7
2.9
3.2
3.4
3.6
TUC - 75
250
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
1.4
1.6
1.8
2.0
2.2
2.4
2.6
2.8
3.0
3.2
3.4
TUC - 85
100
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.7
0.9
1.1
1.3
1.5
1.7
1.9
2.1
2.2
2.4
2.6
2.8
3.0
3.2
FOR ALL SURFACE MOUNT AND RADIAL SERIES
LIFETIME MULTIPLIER L (depending on I/IR and Tamb)
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE Tamb (°C)
SURFACE TEMP.
RISE TS (°C)
50
I/IR (FREQUENCY DEPENDENT)
FREQUENCY (Hz)
1.65
1.55
1.39
1.21
1.00
combination
not
permitted
Notes
TUC Upper category temperature (°C)
I
User current (A)
IR
100 Hz alternating current (A) at upper category temperature TUC taken from respective datasheet
Tamb Ambient temperature of electrolytic capacitor (°C)
Ts Surface temperature rise of electrolytic capacitor due to user current (°C)
L
Lifetime multiplier
PRODUCT CODE
PART NUMBER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Code group
Digit
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
M
A
L
R
E
K
E
0
0
F
E
3
4
7
H
0
0
K
Prefix
Internal code
Special design/
forming
Style
Series name
Design/forming
Voltage
D i m en si o n
Capacitance
Code Group 1
Consists of three characters which indicate the Aluminum Capacitor Division (Material Aluminum).
Code Group 2
Consists of one character which indicates the style of the product.
A = Axial
I = Snap in
L = Solder lug
P = Solder pin
R = Radial
S = SMD
T = Screw terminal
M = Accessories
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Document Number: 25001
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Code Group 3
Consists of three characters which provide the code indicating the respective series.
Examples of series codes:
EKA, EKB, EKF, EKE, ELM, EBM, EB, EL, EYH, EYN, ECA, ECV
Note
• For two letter type-codes the third place (7th digit) is a zero.
Code Group 4
Consists of two digits which provide the numerical code for specifying a particular design.
Description:
8th digit:
0 = Standard design, polarized
2 = Bipolar, non-polarized
9 = Special, customized
9th digit:
0 =
3 =
5 =
6 =
7 =
8 =
9 =
Standard design
Mounting ring (for axial products only)
Cut leads (for radial products only), wires cut to 4.5 mm (3 mm and 4 mm on request)
Radial types with snap-in leads and shortened (for diameter 10  Ø D  18 mm only)
Radial types with snap-in pins
Radial types with snap-in pins
Radial types, with snap-in leads, shortened and bent open to 5.0 mm (for diameter Ø D  8 mm only)
Consists of two letters indicating the capacitor’s (nominal) dimensions. The 10th digit stands for the diameter D and the 11th for
the length L.
Code Group 5
RADIAL TYPES
10th
digit
D (mm)
3
4
5
6.3
8
8.5
10
12.5
13
14
16
18
22
25
25.4
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
AXIAL TYPES
11th
10th
digit
L (mm)
N
M
A
B
P
C
D
F
G
H
J
K
L
P
R
5
7
9
10
11
11.5
12
12.5
16
20
22
25
27
30
31.5
35
35.5
36.5
41
45
51
Revision: 30-Jan-14
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
digit
D (mm)
P
M
Z
V
A
B
T
C
D
E
F
G
N
J
S
U
L
R
K
W
X
3.3
4.5
6
6.5
8
10
12
14
16
18
21
25
30
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
A
B
C
D
F
G
H
J
K
L
M
N
P
CAN TYPES
11th
digit
L (mm)
7
8
10
11
17
18
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
M
N
K
A
B
L
C
D
E
F
G
H
J
10th
digit
D (mm)
20
22
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
76
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
S
L
A
B
C
D
M
E
F
G
H
K
SMD
11th
10th,
11th digit
D x L (mm)
digit
L (mm)
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
80
90
105
114
120
125
135
144
166
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
W
U
V
A
B
C
D
E
F
H
G
J
K
M
O
P
R
S
T
X
AA
BA
BB
AB
BC
AC
BD
AD
BM
AE
AF
AG
AH
BH
AK
AM
AN
AP
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
3
3
4
4
5
5
6.3
6.3
6.3
8
8
10
12.5
12.5
16
16
18
18
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
5.3
5.8
5.3
5.8
5.3
5.8
5.3
5.8
7.7
6.5
10
10
13.5
16.5
16.5
21.5
16.5
21.5
Document Number: 25001
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Code Group 6
Consists of three digits which indicate the capacitance values.
12th digit:
13th and 14th digit:
Number of place before the decimal point
Capacitance value
Example:
047 = 0.47 μF
147 = 4.7 μF
247 = 47 μF
347 =
470 μF
447 = 4700 μF
547 = 47 000 μF
Code Group 7
Consists of one place (15th place) and provides the letter code indicating the capacitor’s rated DC voltage (V).
A
B
C
D
Z
E
F
G
H
U
J
W
L
M
S
N
V
O
K
R
X
P
Y
4
6.3
10
16
33
25
35
40
50
60
63
80
100
160
200
250
300
350
360
385
400
450
500
Code Group 8
Consists of two figures (16th and 17th place) which indicate the capacitance tolerances and special designs.
Description:
16th and 17th digit:
00 = Standard design
02 = Standard design for can types (pin length 6.3 mm)
03 = Lead length 3.0 mm (in combination with code group 4 only)
04 = Lead length 4.0 mm (in combination with code group 4 only)
05 = Capacitance tolerance -10 % ... +50 %
06 = Capacitance tolerance -10 % ... +30 %
07 = Capacitance tolerance ± 10 %
08 = Capacitance tolerance ± 15 %
09 = Capacitance tolerance ± 20 %
DIN IEC 62 coding:
T
Q
K
M
Note
• 05 or 09 is only mentioned if there is a deviation of the standard tolerance
10 to 99 = Other special designs
The
16th
digit can also be taken by a letter which in this case indicates the type of packaging.
DESCRIPTION
LETTER CODE
STYLE
CASE DIAMETER (mm)
TYPE OF PACKAGING
LEAD SPACING (mm)
A
Axial
3.3  16
Reel
n/a
B
Axial
3.3  16
Ammo
n/a
M
Radial
3  6.3
Ammo
2.5
N
Radial
8
Ammo
3.5
L
Radial
48
Ammo
5.0
G
Radial
10  12.5
Ammo
5.0
G
Radial
16  18
Ammo
7.5
Code Group 9
Consists of one character (18th digit) and is reserved for an internal coding. 
(e.g. production line, production location, etc.)
Revision: 30-Jan-14
Document Number: 25001
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