Shelf life of electrolytics
Shelf life of electrolytics
(OP)
Hello all. I've been offered a quantity of 63V 6800uf caps, but the're date stamped 1996. I vaguely remember being told that the electrolyte degrades, or that the working voltage decreases if they're not charged regularly. This was in 1976, so whilst the technology has, no doubt improved, is this still the case? Thanks, Steve.





RE: Shelf life of electrolytics
What happens is that the Al2O3 isolating layer on the electrode's surface deteriorates. By letting them work at a reduced voltage and with a limited current, you can "rebuild" that oxide layer. It usually takes several hours to do it. Connect via a resostor to about half the working voltage. Make the resistor low ohms so that the initial leakage current doesn't consume all the voltage.
Gunnar Englund
www.gke.org
RE: Shelf life of electrolytics
Reforming electro's went out of fashion when manufacturers started making ones that don't spill when they are tipped over.
Provided that your ones have been stored within man's specs, they will be as good as new.
OTOH, putting 10 YO electro's in new equip't will be noticed, to the detriment of reputation.
Regards, Ray.
RE: Shelf life of electrolytics
RE: Shelf life of electrolytics
RE: Shelf life of electrolytics
http://el
regards
Peter