Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors a.k.a. aluminum electrolytic switching capacitors are an essential component used in the power side of circuits and belong to the family of electrolytic capacitors. They are widely used in switching power supplies, AC/DC adapters, welding machines, general-purpose power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), battery chargers, and inverters.

The UPJ2A390MPD1TD specifically is a screw terminal aluminum electrolytic capacitor with a working voltage of 50VDC, nominal capacitance of 390uF, and a lifetime rating of 6000 to 10000 hrs. It is designed to limit overcurrent and overheating of electrical parts, and sure to be used in various circuits of automotive accessories, wired communication equipment, heaters, motors, and lighting.

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are mostly used in the power side of circuits for their superior handling of high currents, relatively low cost, and their ability to provide low ESR at high frequencies. This is achieved by passing an electrical current through a solid electrolyte which creates oxide film on the Aluminum of the anode. This oxide film on the Aluminum serves as the dielectric between the two opposite layers of electrodes. The capacitors formed by this dielectric layer hold a fixed amount of electrical charge, thereby allowing for the flow of current. This current flow is what is utilized in automotive accessories and other circuitry.

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are known for their high charge and discharge rates and long life span. However, they also have a few drawbacks. For instance, they have a wide voltage tolerance making them not suitable for wide range switching applications. They also tend to produce corona discharge and have limited frequency response up to 1MHz. Furthermore, different temperature and humidity levels can significantly affect the life span of aluminum electrolytic capacitors.

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors are ideal for applications that require high charge and discharge rates and low source resistance. They are widely used in AC/DC adapters, switching power supplies, and inverters, where they limit overcurrent and overheat of electrical parts. With their excellent performance, aluminum electrolytic capacitors are sure to remain an essential component in a wide range of electronic circuits.