Frequently Asked Questions

How do I select the right Aishi capacitor for my application?

Consider voltage rating, capacitance value, ripple current requirements, temperature range, physical size, and application type. Our selection guides provide detailed guidance for each capacitor series.

Contact our FAE team with your application specifications for personalized capacitor selection assistance.

capacitor selection selection guide application support
What technical support resources are available for Aishi capacitors?

We provide comprehensive technical support including detailed selection guides, application notes, lifetime calculation tools, online resources, and direct FAE consultation. Our technical library includes comprehensive datasheets, application guides, reliability reports, and design tools. Engineers can access our online capacitor selection tool, download technical documentation, request samples, or schedule direct consultation with our Field Application Engineers for specific application support and design reviews.

Browse our technical library online or contact our FAE team for specific application support.

technical support application note FAE consultation
How can I calculate capacitor lifetime for my application?

Capacitor lifetime can be calculated using the Arrhenius equation considering operating temperature, voltage derating, and ripple current. The basic formula is L2 = L1 × 2^((T1-T2)/10) × (V1/V2)^n, where L is lifetime, T is temperature, and V is voltage. For most aluminum electrolytic capacitors, every 10°C reduction in temperature doubles the lifetime. Voltage derating also significantly impacts lifetime, with operating at 80% of rated voltage typically providing 2-4x longer life than operating at 100%.

Use our online lifetime calculator or contact our FAE team for application-specific lifetime predictions with detailed thermal modeling.

lifetime calculation reliability Arrhenius equation temperature derating
What are the common failure modes of aluminum electrolytic capacitors?

Common failure modes include electrolyte drying out over time (leading to capacitance loss and ESR increase), overvoltage damage causing dielectric breakdown, excessive ripple current causing overheating, and mechanical damage from vibration or thermal cycling. Proper voltage derating, temperature management, and ripple current control can prevent most failures. Aishi capacitors are designed with safety vents to prevent catastrophic failure and provide graceful degradation over time.

Follow proper derating guidelines and thermal management practices to prevent common failure modes. Monitor ESR and capacitance for early warning signs.

failure modes reliability ESR increase capacitance loss
How do I interpret Aishi capacitor part numbers and markings?

Aishi capacitor part numbers follow a systematic format indicating series, capacitance, voltage, and case size. For example, RS-1000uF-25V indicates RS series, 1000 microfarads capacitance, and 25 volts DC rating. Physical markings on the capacitor include capacitance value, voltage rating, temperature range, date code, and polarity indicators. The negative terminal is typically marked with a stripe or minus sign. Date codes indicate manufacturing date using a letter for year and number for week. Understanding these markings is essential for proper component identification, quality traceability, and ensuring you receive genuine Aishi products through authorized channels. Proper interpretation of part numbers helps engineers select the correct components and verify authenticity.

Refer to Aishi's part number decoder guide or contact our FAE team for help interpreting specific part numbers and date codes.

part number markings date code capacitor identification
What is the difference between 85°C and 105°C rated capacitors?

The temperature rating indicates the maximum ambient temperature at which the capacitor can operate while achieving its rated lifetime. 85°C rated capacitors are standard for general-purpose applications with moderate temperature requirements. 105°C rated capacitors use enhanced electrolyte formulations and construction techniques to withstand higher temperatures, making them suitable for high-temperature environments like enclosed LED fixtures or industrial equipment. The 105°C rating typically adds 20-30% to cost but provides 2-4x longer lifetime at the same operating temperature due to improved materials.

Use 85°C capacitors for standard applications. Use 105°C capacitors for high-temperature environments or when extended lifetime is required.

temperature rating 85C vs 105C high temperature capacitors
How should I store Aishi capacitors before use?

Aishi capacitors should be stored in their original packaging in a cool, dry environment with temperature between 5°C and 35°C and humidity below 70% RH. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, corrosive gases, or excessive vibration. When stored properly, aluminum electrolytic capacitors have a shelf life of 3-5 years. After long storage, capacitors may require reformation (applying voltage gradually) before use. The leakage current may be initially high but will normalize after a few minutes of applied voltage.

Store capacitors in original packaging in controlled environment. Reform capacitors after storage exceeding 2 years.

storage shelf life reformation handling
What are the key differences between radial, snap-in, and screw terminal capacitors?

Radial capacitors have wire leads for through-hole PCB mounting and are used for low to medium power applications up to about 100W. They are cost-effective and easy to assemble. Snap-in capacitors have PCB mounting terminals for secure connection and are designed for medium to high power applications (100W to 500W). They offer higher capacitance and ripple current capability than radial types. Screw terminal capacitors have threaded terminals for high-current connections and are used for high-power industrial applications above 500W. They provide the highest capacitance and current capability but require more complex mounting.

Use radial for low-medium power (<100W), snap-in for medium-high power (100-500W), and screw terminal for high power (>500W) applications.

radial capacitor snap-in capacitor screw terminal mounting type