M39003/09-2011

Tantalum Capacitors: M39003/09-2011 application field and working principle

Tantalum capacitors, or a tantalum electrolytic capacitor, is a type of electrolytic capacitor which uses a capacitance created by the capacitor’s dielectricanode material made from powdered tantalum, a metal oxide anode and an electrolytic solution. A M39003/09-2011 (or commonly known as MIL-PRF- 39003) is a specification developed by the Department of Defense and mainly used in the aviation and aerospace circuitry. A M39003/09-2011 is specifically for Capacitors, Fixed, Tantalum, Solid, (MnO2 Electrode, Hermetically Sealed in Metal Cases) for use at low frequencies below 1000 kHz.

The main purpose of a capacitor is to store electrical energy in an electrical field. Tantalum capacitors have distinct advantages over other capacitors due to their capability to store higher energy and their ability to have a much smaller size than other comparable capacitors. Tantalum capacitors making use of the M39003/09-2011 spec can be used in circuits with high requirements for size and reliability and temperature stability. These tantalum capacitors can be used in avionics, aerospace, military, medical, and certain industrial applications.

Tantalum capacitors operate by offering a low equivalent series resistance (ESR), allowing for a great deal of capacitance in very little space. The anode of the capacitor is usually made of a pressed metal powder core, formed within a metal case, while the cathode is an electrolyte solution with a tantalum oxide layer applied to it. When voltage is applied across the capacitor’s two terminals, an electric field is created, and the electrical charge is stored in the metal oxide layer. This is why the tantalum capacitors have higher capacitance. The electrolyte solution needs to be replaced regularly in order to maintain a high efficiency of the circuit.

The M39003/09-2011 specification details the use of solid tantalum electrolytic capacitors that are hermetically-sealed in metal cases. They are designed for specific requirements regarding the capacitor’s physical size, dielectricity, and temperature-stability. At the same time, they must have high levels of reliability and stability.

Tantalum capacitors that meet the M39003/09-2011 specification are especially suitable for avionics, aerospace, military, medical, or industrial applications, as they boast one of the highest capacitance-to-volume ratios available today. The cases also provide high levels of vibration and shock resistance, further making them suitable for extended use in harsh conditions. At the same time, their low ESR makes them capable of handling larger currents.

In summary, the M39003/09-2011 specification has allowed for the development of an especially reliable and temperature-stable type of tantalum capacitor, even smaller than regular tantalum capacitors, that is suitable for a wide range of applications. Its hermetically-sealed metal cases allow for operation in extreme conditions, and its high levels of resistance to shock and vibration make it reliable and extend its working life. The capacitor’s low ESR also makes it well suited to handle larger currents.