Axial Lead Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors, also known as axial lead aluminum electrolytic capacitors, are a traditional type of electrolytic capacitor characterized by two leads leading out from the same end of the capacitor, with a shape similar to a cow's horn, hence the name. This type of capacitor is mainly made of aluminum material and uses electrolyte as the medium.

characteristic:

Axial lead: The two leads of a capacitor are led out from the same end, making it easy to layout on a double-sided printed circuit board (PCB), especially in space limited situations.

High capacitance value: The horn shaped electrolytic capacitor can provide a high capacitance value, ranging from a few microfarads to several thousand microfarads.

Volume ratio: Compared to other types of capacitors, electrolytic capacitors typically have smaller volumes at the same capacitance value.

Polarity: Electrolytic capacitors are polarized components that must be correctly connected to the circuit, with the positive (+) connected to a high potential and the negative (-) connected to a low potential, otherwise it can cause damage or even explosion to the capacitor.

Wide voltage range: Electrolytic capacitors have a wide range of available voltages, ranging from a few volts to several hundred volts.

Application:

Power filtering: Horn shaped electrolytic capacitors are commonly used for filtering power lines to reduce electromagnetic interference and improve power quality.

Coupling and decoupling: In amplifiers and other analog circuits, horn shaped electrolytic capacitors are used for signal coupling and decoupling.

Smooth voltage: After rectifying the circuit, the horn shaped electrolytic capacitor is used to smooth the output voltage and eliminate ripple.

Energy storage: In some applications that require instantaneous energy release, horn shaped electrolytic capacitors can store energy and quickly release it when needed.

Packaging and dimensions:

The packaging of horn shaped electrolytic capacitors usually refers to the diameter and length of the outer shell, as well as the spacing between the leads. Common sizes include:

Small: Diameters range from 4mm to 10mm, and lengths range from 5mm to 15mm.

Medium size: Diameters range from 10mm to 20mm, and lengths range from 15mm to 40mm.

Large: with a diameter exceeding 20mm and a length possibly exceeding 40mm, suitable for specific high-power or high-voltage applications.

When selecting a horn shaped electrolytic capacitor, factors such as capacitance value, operating voltage, polarity, temperature range, lifespan, and cost need to be considered. Manufacturers usually provide detailed product specifications and data sheets to help users make appropriate choices. Due to the wide variety of electrolytic capacitors, the most suitable electrolytic capacitor product should be selected based on specific circuit design and space limitations. Meanwhile, due to the polarity of electrolytic capacitors, special attention should be paid to their correct polarity connection when designing and assembling circuits.

With the increasing trend of miniaturization and integration in electronic products, horn shaped electrolytic capacitors are gradually being replaced by surface mount electrolytic capacitors in some applications. However, in certain specific industrial and professional applications, horn shaped electrolytic capacitors are still being used due to their unique advantages.