>Do electolytics have a particular failure mode when they go bad over time?
>
They typically lose C and/or the leakage current increases. When the
leakage current increases, more internal heat is developed, which
generates more leakage, which generates more heat, on and on and on.
>I assume that the dialectic is drying out and they just gradually loose
>capacity - lower uF's.
>
>Does the voltage rating decrease?
>
Less V means less leakage current.
>Do they begin to look resistive?
>
R=E/I
>How does the degradation of an electrolytic that is in daily use compare
>with one that has been sitting unenergized for several years?
>
Every 10ºC cuts the life by c. half.
cheers, Rick
- R. L. Measures, a.k.a. Rich..., 805.386.3734,AG6K,
www.vcnet.com/measures.
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