Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

382LX563M035N082 application field and working principle

Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors (AEC) are passive electrical components used to store energy using a reversible reaction to distort a dielectric layer. They are made up of two aluminum foils separated by a spacer – a sheet of paper like material with an electrolytic solution impregnated in it. This solution provides an electrical pathway between the two foils.

AECs offer high capacitances resulting in low impedance values. The main external characteristics of an AEC are its capacitance (measured in Farads), its operating voltage (the maximum voltage differential between the two terminals, over the maximum DC operating voltage) and its equivalent series resistance (ESR), which is the equivalent of the resistance a circuit element would have if it had the same length as a capacitor. Its operating temperature is another important factor, as the dielectric can only insulate the AEC within a certain range.

382LX563M035N082 is a type of AEC made specifically to be used in applications as Power Over Ethernet (PoE), which enables the transmission of up to 12 volts of power over the Ethernet cable. It meets IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards for power supplies. This type of capacitor also displays some features tailored for Power Over Ethernet applications, such as a low ESR, improved hold up performance, low leakage current and a wide temperature range.

In terms of its working principle, the AEC works on a reversible reaction, where the energy is stored in an electrostatic field and can be used later when needed. AECs convert the electrical energy into stored mechanical energy, through the distortion of a dielectric layer. As the capacitor is charged, the dielectric will apply an electric field to the stored energy. This stored energy will be used when the capacitor is discharged, in order to oppose the applied electric field.

The characteristics of a capacitor will vary based on the dielectric material used. Generally, non-conducting materials, such as paper or mica, will have a higher permittivity and higher capacitance than conductive materials, such as aluminum or steel. AECs usually allow capacitances up to 100-1000uF/V, and operating voltages up to 30V-2.5V. The dielectric of these capacitors is aluminum oxide, which allows them to reach the highest possible capacitances in a very small space.

382LX563M035N082 has been designed specifically for Power Over Ethernet applications, offering the highest possible capacitance values at the lowest possible cost. It meets PoE system requirements, including a low ESR and improved hold up performance. Furthermore, an operating temperature range of -40°C to +105°C allows the AEC to be used in extreme temperatures. Consequently, this type of capacitor is suitable for a wide range of applications where reliable and long-term energy storage is needed, such as in power supplies, LED drivers and electrical motors.