Samwha Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors

Samwha aluminum electrolytic capacitor lifetime varies by series and operating conditions: Standard series (WD) rated at 2,000 hours at 85°C, Long-life series (WL) rated at 8,000 to 15,000 hours at 105°C, High-temperature series (WH) rated at 5,000 to 10,000 hours at 125°C. Actual lifetime depends on operating temperature and ripple current. Using the Arrhenius equation, lifetime approximately doubles for every 10°C decrease in temperature. For example, a capacitor rated 10,000 hours at 105°C will last approximately 40,000 hours at 85°C. Ripple current also affects lifetime - operating below rated ripple current extends life. Our FAE team can calculate expected lifetime for your specific operating conditions.

Contact our FAE team for lifetime calculations based on your specific operating temperature and ripple current conditions.

Samwha offers three main terminal types for different applications: Radial Lead Capacitors feature two leads extending from the bottom, ideal for PCB mounting in consumer electronics, power supplies, and general-purpose applications. They are available in diameters from 5mm to 18mm with capacitance up to 22,000µF. Snap-In Terminal Capacitors have two or three leads that snap into PCB holes, designed for power supplies, industrial equipment, and applications requiring higher capacitance (up to 100,000µF) with diameters from 16mm to 35mm. Screw Terminal Capacitors feature threaded terminals for bolted connections, used in high-capacitance energy storage applications (up to 1,000,000µF), large power supplies, and welding equipment. Screw terminal types offer the lowest ESR and highest ripple current capability.

Select radial for general PCB applications, snap-in for power supplies, and screw terminal for high-capacitance energy storage.

To calculate expected lifetime for Samwha aluminum electrolytic capacitors, use the Arrhenius equation: L2 = L1 × 2^((T1-T2)/10) × Kripple, where L1 is rated lifetime at temperature T1, L2 is expected lifetime at operating temperature T2, and Kripple is the ripple current factor. For example, a WL series capacitor rated 10,000 hours at 105°C operating at 75°C with 50% rated ripple current: L2 = 10,000 × 2^((105-75)/10) × 1.5 = 10,000 × 8 × 1.5 = 120,000 hours (approximately 13.7 years). The ripple current factor Kripple is approximately 1.5 when operating at 50% rated ripple, 1.0 at 100%, and 0.5 at 150%. Higher ripple current generates internal heating, reducing lifetime. Always measure actual case temperature during operation for accurate calculations.

Use our online lifetime calculator or contact our FAE team for detailed lifetime analysis.

Samwha recommends voltage derating for optimal reliability and lifetime: General industrial applications - operate at 80% of rated voltage (20% derating), High-reliability applications - operate at 70% of rated voltage (30% derating), Automotive applications - operate at 60-70% of rated voltage depending on criticality. For example, for a 24V power supply, use a 35V rated capacitor minimum (31% derating), or 50V for high reliability (52% derating). Higher derating reduces stress on the dielectric layer, significantly extending capacitor lifetime. In applications with high ripple current or elevated ambient temperatures, increase derating margin. Never exceed the rated voltage, even briefly, as this can cause permanent damage. For applications with voltage transients, ensure peak voltage including transients does not exceed rated voltage.

Use 80% derating for standard applications, 70% for high reliability, and 60% for critical automotive systems.

Samwha aluminum electrolytic capacitors should be stored under controlled conditions: Temperature range -40°C to +50°C (preferably 5°C to 35°C), Humidity below 75% RH (non-condensing), No exposure to corrosive gases, dust, or direct sunlight. Storage life is typically 3 years when stored in original packaging. After extended storage, capacitors may require reformation (applying voltage gradually) before use. The shelf life depends on storage temperature - higher temperatures accelerate electrolyte evaporation and oxide layer degradation. For long-term storage, maintain temperature below 25°C. Before using capacitors stored for more than 2 years, measure leakage current and capacitance to verify specifications. Proper storage ensures capacitors meet rated specifications when installed.

Store capacitors in original packaging at controlled temperature and humidity. Test parameters if stored over 2 years.