Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

Introduction

Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors, also known as electrolytic capacitors, are the most widely used energy storage device in modern circuits. These devices have the ability to store polarity-sensitive electric charge and then discharge it later on when needed. The electrolytic capacitors use electrolyte as the dielectric material that separates the two electrodes of the capacitor. The function of this material is to provide electric insulation which means that it does not allow electric current to flow through it. There are two main types of aluminum electrolytic capacitors, namely the Axial type and the Radial type.

MALLIEN07AD510H02K Applications Fields and Working Principles

The Mallien07AD510H02K is a Radial type Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor with a rated voltage of 10 VDC. It features a capacitance of 4.7μF and has a minimum working temperature of -40°C. This type of capacitor is mainly used in high frequency switching and power supply circuits, UPS, electromagnetic starters, computer devices, telecommunication equipment and other electronic circuits which require a high degree of stability as well as temperature stability.

The main working principle of an electrolytic capacitor is based on two metallic plates separated by a dielectric material or electrolyte. When a direct current is applied externally, the electrons pass through the electrolyte and cause an electrochemical reaction which causes a layer of oxide to grow on one of the plates. This layer then acts as the dielectric material which stores the electric charge. It is also important to note that electrolytic capacitors are polarised and should not be used in circuit configurations where the polarity of the voltage can be reversed.

Advantages

One of the major advantages of aluminum electrolytic capacitors is their high capacitance and long life span. These devices can typically store up to 30 times more energy than a wire-wound and paper-type device. Additionally, aluminum electrolytic capacitors also offer a high rate of self-discharge meaning that after a period of charge and discharge they will lose most of their energy on their own rather than through external leakage. Furthermore, barring any mechanical shocks or other outside interference, aluminum electrolytic capacitors exhibit almost no aging and have a life expectancy of over 15 years.

Disadvantages

The major disadvantage of aluminum electrolytic capacitors is that they are quite sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If the temperature drops below the specified operating temperature, their capacitance reduces significantly. Additionally, these devices also tend to be relatively high voltage rated meaning that their size can be quite large. Finally, aluminum electrolytic capacitors tend to be less tolerant to voltage spikes and vibrations compared to other types of capacitors.

Conclusion

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are widely used for energy storage and transient voltage requirements. The Mallien07AD510H02K is a radial type capacitor with a rated voltage of 10 VDC, a capacitance of 4.7μF, and a minimum working temperature of -40°C. It is mainly used in high frequency switching and power supply circuits, UPS, electromagnetic starters, computer devices, telecommunication equipment and other electronic circuits that require a high degree of stability and temperature stability. While it has some advantages such as a long life span and high capacitance, it also has some disadvantages such as a sensitivity to temperature changes and less tolerance to voltage spikes and vibrations compared to other types of capacitors.