Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are special devices, which employ the electrochemical principle of a reversible oxidation-reduction reaction of aluminum. This combination of metal anode and electrolyte creates a large capacitance per unit volume. Such capacitors are used mainly for energy-dissipating applications in the range of ultrasonic frequencies.

The EKXJ451ELL151MM50S is an aluminum electrolytic capacitor. It has a capacitance of 451 μF and a voltage of 50 V. Due to its high voltage rating, it is ideal for use in high-powered switching and inverter applications. It has a wide temperature range and long life expectancy, making it a reliable choice under various conditions.

Application Field

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are widely used in industrial and consumer electronics. For instance, in electronics for automotive use, they are used in power circuits and noise filtering applications. In general, they are often found in frequency-dependent circuits, such as High-Frequency Amplifiers. Likewise, their use in power circuits helps in reducing voltage surges.

Additionally, aluminum electrolytic capacitors are employed in control relays, audio equipment, medical imaging equipment and sensing. They are also used in radio frequency transmission and reception, such as AM and FM broadcasting. Moreover, they are employed in many applications, where high temperature resistance and energy dissipating is of importance.

Working Principle

In an aluminum electrolytic capacitor, two bulk metals are connected by an electrolyte, such as an organic solid or liquid. When a voltage is applied to the capacitor plates, a layer of aluminum oxide is formed at the cathode. This layer of oxide is electrically insulating and prevents current flow between the two plates. However, as current does not flow between the plates, a charge can build up, creating a capacitance.

The electrolyte is responsible for dissolving aluminum and creating the aluminum oxide layer. Additionally, when the voltage is reversed, the layer of aluminum oxide is worn away, creating a much lower equivalent series resistance (ESR). This is due to the chemicals in the electrolyte, which react with the aluminum oxide.

Thanks to this, aluminum electrolytic capacitors are not only energy-efficient but also reliable. Furthermore, they are relatively small and light. This makes them ideal for use in a wide range of applications, including high-frequency, high-power, and low-voltage applications.