Of the numerous types of electronic components, only aluminum electrolytic capacitors are structured in such a way that a liquid is held in the active element. Also, only aluminum electrolytic capacitors have generated vapors from within the active element that must be vented to the outside.
If the aluminum electrolytic capacitor is used improperly, these unusual characteristics can cause severe damage to the electronic product. In order to assure proper usage of the aluminum electrolytic capacitor, be sure to understand and be wary of the following requirements:
| Potential Problem Area | Correct | Incorrect | Failure Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polarity Applied voltage |  |
 |
Open (The sudden increase in the internal temperature causes the pressure valve to blow, allowing the electrolyte to vaporize.) Short |
| Ripple current Charging / Discharging Use temperature |  |
 |
Reduced life span (internal heat generation) Open (The increase in internal pressure causes the pressure valve to blow, allowing the electrolyte to vaporize.) |
| External forces Terminal pitch |  |
 |
Short (Between the terminal and the electrode foil.) Leak (Damage to seal.) |
| Bond Hardening |  |
 |
Open (The trapped electrolytic fluid corrodes the capacitor terminals causing an open circuit.) |
| Pressure valve Operation |  |
 |
Leakage Electrolyte (When there is no space above the valve, the valve does not work, causing the seal rubber to burst.) |
| Use on double sided circuit boards |  |
 |
Short (When there is leakage electrolyte the copper migration causes a short.) |
| Substrate cleaning |  |
 |
Open (Contamination with halogen causes corrosion, leading to an open circuit.) |
