Doubt about old electrolytic capacitors

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the maintenance of aluminum electrolytic capacitors from the early 90s, emphasizing the importance of periodic energization to prevent failure due to disuse. It is established that these capacitors should be reformed with applied DC voltage to maintain their functionality, as they can dry out over time. The discussion highlights that capacitors manufactured between 1999-2007 may have inherent defects, known as the "capacitor plague," which can affect their longevity. Regular use of electronic devices is recommended to ensure the health of these components.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of aluminum electrolytic capacitors and their operation
  • Knowledge of DC voltage application for capacitor reforming
  • Familiarity with Equivalent Series Resistance (ESR) measurement
  • Awareness of capacitor manufacturing defects, specifically the "capacitor plague"
NEXT STEPS
  • Research techniques for reforming aluminum electrolytic capacitors
  • Learn how to measure ESR using a multimeter
  • Investigate the manufacturer's recommendations for capacitor storage and aging
  • Explore the impact of temperature on capacitor performance and longevity
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, repair technicians, and anyone involved in maintaining or restoring vintage electronic devices that utilize aluminum electrolytic capacitors.

jonas7878
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I have stored here electronic devices with aluminum electrolytic capacitors used and manufactured in the early 90s. Here the temperature varies between 33-35C. These electronic devices need to be energized what time and frequency to prevent failures in these aluminum electrolytic capacitors caused by disuse?
3300uf-25v-electrolytic-capacitor-550x550.jpg

Solid-capacitor-560uf-4v-500x500.jpg
 
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35 years old is pretty old for electrolytic caps. They are likely dried out pretty badly, and will be out of spec.
 
I like to think of electrolytic capacitors as a form of life, a bit like a Baker's Yeast. Ideally, electrolytic capacitors should be chemically "reformed" with periods of applied DC, of the voltage they will be required to operate. If you don't care for them, they will chemically dry out, and die.

The feeding schedule was not specified, but is met by the regular use of electronic products. Those products, with non-solid electrolytic capacitors, were designed to fail after three to ten years. Use it, or lose it.

Some capacitors from the era, 1999-2007, were manufactured with a congenital illness. Many of those found their way into the price discount market. Measure the ESR to identify health.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague
 
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my devices with aluminum electrolytic capacitors work in 220v my temperature home is 33-35C my devices manufatured early 90s

What is the maximum time interval without energizing them but safe to prevent failure of the aluminum electrolytic capacitors?
 
jonas7878 said:
What is the maximum time interval without energizing them but safe to prevent failure of the aluminum electrolytic capacitors?
jonas7878 said:
... aluminum electrolytic capacitors ...
Solid or non-solid electrolyte ? You picture both types in post #1.

You must read the manufacturer's recommendations and data sheet for storage and ageing information.
 
My devices have both types
 
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It turns out that this new user is a sockpuppet of a previously banned member, so this thread will remain closed.
 

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