New Industry Products

EPCOS Premiers B41684 and B41784 Series Capacitors

December 10, 2000 by Jeff Shepard

In cooperation with the motor vehicle industry, EPCOS (Munich, Germany) has developed the B41684 and B41784 Series of aluminum electrolytic capacitors for onboard electronics, especially in commercial vehicles.

In contrast with conventional axial or radial-lead designs, the cathode consists of two collars, one at either end of the can. These form a common conductive surface and are soldered to the circuit board via four pins altogether. This design, which is reinforced by a crimp in the middle of the can, is intended to enhance mechanical stability. Meanwhile, the anode connection is no longer exposed to any mechanical stress. EPCOS claims that this increases vibrational strength from the standard figure of 10g to 30g.

Dubbed Elefantino for the unusual design, these new capacitors come in cans measuring 12mm x 30mm and 18mm x 40mm, depending on capacitance and dielectric strength. They are available for rated voltages of 25V, 40V, 63V and 100V, the new aluminum electrolytic capacitors are suitable for all standard onboard voltages from 12V to 42V. They cover a capacitance range from 220 degrees F to 3300 degrees F. Their permissible temperature range extends from -55 degrees C to 125 degrees C. This can be increased to 150 degrees C under reduced current and voltage loads. EPCOS maintains that the service life at 125 degrees C exceeds 3,000 hours of operation.

The new capacitors are especially suited for trucks, tractors, construction vehicles and other heavy commercial vehicles which have to withstand severe vibrations. Elefantinos can also be used in machine tools exposed to similar vibration and shock.