Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are components used in electronic circuits that are constructed of a layer of reactive material between two electrodes. These capacitors are composed of an electrolyte, which can be either a liquid or paste, between a cathode and an anode. They are among the most commonly used types of capacitors in analog circuits and are also referred to as electrolytic capacitors.

Types of Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

The type of aluminum electrolytic capacitor chosen depends upon the specific requirements of the application for which it is to be used. There are many types of aluminum electrolytic capacitors available, including polar and non-polar, snap-in, leaded, snap-in with tantalum, snap-in with Mylar, axial and low-ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance). Each type has its own advantages and its own set of disadvantages. The choice of capacitor for each application must be based upon the electrical characteristics, environmental conditions, size, voltage, temperature range, and other design considerations.

16ZLG470MEFCTA8X16 Application Field and Working Principle

The 16ZLG470MEFCTA8X16 aluminum electrolytic capacitor is a leaded snap-in capacitor with a tantalum and Mylar construction. It has a maximum operating temperature of 370°C and a tolerance of ±20%. The capacitor is rated at 4.7 µF and is capable of withstanding a voltage of 250-300V. It is ideal for a number of applications, including: medical equipment, satellite systems, ultrasonic equipment, and space applications.

In terms of its working principle, the aluminum electrolytic capacitor relies upon the chemical reaction of aluminum oxide and electrolyte. The aluminum oxide serves as a layer of insulation between the cathode and the anode, while the electrolyte helps to conduct the flow of electrons. As voltage is applied to the capacitor, the electrolyte breaks down, allowing electrons to travel from one electrode to the other. This causes a buildup of both positive and negative charges within the capacitor, resulting in the creation of an electrical field.

Conclusion

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors offer a variety of advantages over other types of capacitors, making them the preferred choice in many applications. Thanks to their reusable characteristics, they can be easily recycled and reused in various types of circuits and devices. The 16ZLG470MEFCTA8X16 is a reliable and well-suited leaded snap-in aluminum electrolytic capacitor that can be used in a wide variety of critical applications.