2. amps-preamps
  3. 181479-171531

life span/failure rate of filter capacitors?

(And I assume that the filter caps are the large electrolytic caps with the screw in terminals?)

The reason I am inquiring about this subject is that I stumbled on to an older thread started by someone who had a "filter cap explode" inside his 20 year old Cary V-12 monoblock.  (Which is basically what I have, only mine is a single stereo amp.)

Anyway, I do know the specs on those large caps with the screw in terminals which I am thinking are aka filter caps are 560uf 400v. 

Do these normally give any kind of warning before they let go?  It does occasionally blow the 3A SB AC power fuse on start up. 

TIA for any information/advice on this subject.

immatthewj

Showing 1 response by imhififan

imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,221 posts
 

I have been looking on line (including Partsconnexion) trying to find the value I need (400 v, 560 uf) with screw in terminals, but I cannot find anything matches.

400V is the minimum, higher voltage rating is better. Mouser has some 560uF 550V in stock.

Ambient temperature and internal heating due to ripple current is the most critical to the life of aluminum electrolytic capacitors. Although higher temperature rating is better, you also need to check the service life specification.

An aluminum electrolytic capacitor rated 85°C with service life of 18,000 hours can outlast one with 3,000 hours @ 105°C if working at ambient temperature lower than 85°C.

https://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/KEMET/ALS60A561KE550?qs=nJQ%2FaDFn8AFl3GSdgkk75g%3D%3D

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