Rubycon Corporation Radial Lead Capacitors

YXF and YXJ are both 105C rated radial lead capacitors with similar electrical characteristics. The primary difference is operational lifetime: YXF is rated for 10,000 hours at 105C while YXJ extends this to 12,000 hours. YXJ uses an enhanced electrolyte formulation that provides longer life while maintaining similar size and cost. Both series are suitable for general-purpose applications, but YXJ is preferred for applications requiring extended reliability or operating in challenging thermal environments. The voltage and capacitance ranges are similar between series, making selection straightforward based on lifetime requirements.

Choose YXF for standard applications; select YXJ when extended lifetime is required.

Ripple current ratings for Rubycon radial lead capacitors vary by series, size, and temperature. The ZLH low-impedance series offers the highest ripple current capability, typically 2-3 times higher than standard YXF series. For example, a 1000uF 25V capacitor in 10x16mm size might have 0.5A ripple current rating in YXF series but 1.2A in ZLH series. Ripple current capability decreases at higher ambient temperatures. At 85C, the rating is typically 70-80% of the 105C rating. For high-ripple applications, consider the ZLH series or use multiple capacitors in parallel to distribute the thermal load.

Select ZLH series for high-ripple applications; parallel capacitors for very high ripple currents.

Yes, but only specific automotive-qualified series. Rubycon's BXA series is specifically designed and qualified for automotive applications with 150C rating and AEC-Q200 qualification. Standard YXF and YXJ series are not qualified for automotive use and should not be used in safety-critical vehicle applications. The BXA series undergoes additional testing including temperature cycling, mechanical shock, and vibration testing required by automotive standards. For automotive applications, always select AEC-Q200 qualified capacitors and ensure proper derating for reliability.

For automotive applications, select BXA series AEC-Q200 qualified capacitors only.

Rubycon recommends a maximum storage period of 3 years at room temperature (5-35C) for aluminum electrolytic capacitors. During storage, the electrolyte can slowly evaporate and the oxide layer may degrade slightly. Capacitors stored beyond this period may require reformation - applying rated voltage through a current-limiting resistor for several hours to rebuild the oxide layer. High temperature or humidity during storage accelerates degradation. Always check the manufacturing date code and follow first-in-first-out inventory practices. For critical applications, consider testing stored capacitors before use.

Use capacitors within 3 years of manufacture; perform reformation if stored longer.

Rubycon radial lead capacitors have markings that indicate key specifications. The capacitance value is marked in microfarads (uF). The voltage rating is indicated by a number followed by V. The date code indicates manufacturing date using a letter for year and number for week. For example, marking '1000uF 25V K8' indicates 1000 microfarad, 25 volt rating, manufactured in week 8 of year K (2024). Additional markings may indicate series (YXF, YXJ, etc.) and tolerance. Understanding these markings helps verify correct component selection and traceability.

Refer to Rubycon's marking guide or contact our FAE team for assistance with date code interpretation.