Capacitors

Capacitors are used in many circuits to aid the blocking of direct currents whilst allowing alternating currents to still pass through. These components are used in many different devices and are an incredibly useful piece of kit - most electrical products can't function without them.

Here at RS, we have the right equipment to set you up for any project. Whether you need your capacitor parts for work, teaching, or for taking on an experimental idea you have, we can supply them at an affordable price.

We have a wide selection of electrical capacitors in stock which are supplied by leading brands including Genteq, Cornell-Dubilier, and KEMET.

To make your search more targeted and find exactly what you are looking for faster, use our filters. There you can choose between different motor capacitors by category, manufacturer, and more.

At RS, we only partner with the very best manufacturers, so you are guaranteed to receive the highest quality products for the task at hand. Read below to find out more about what we have to offer.

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What are capacitors?

Capacitors are used to store electrical charges and release them as they are needed by the circuit. They also block any direct current while allowing alternating current to pass through.

They can be used in electronic circuits to perform different tasks including filtering, bypassing, and smoothing frequencies.

What are the different types of capacitors?

There are six common different types of capacitors. These are:

• Electrolytic Capacitors
  These are used when larger capacitor values are needed. There is a thin layer of metal film which is used for one electrode, then the cathode uses a semi-liquid electrolyte solution.
• Mica Capacitors
  There are two types of Mica Capacitors - clamped capacitors & silver mica capacitors. Mica capacitors are low loss and are often used at high frequencies. Most commonly these types of capacitors are made from Muscovite and phlogopite mica, with Muscovite being the favored option in terms of electrical properties, whereas the latter has a higher temperature resistance.
• Paper Capacitors
  A paper capacitor is made between two tinfoil sheets that are separated from the paper. This paper is then rolled into a cylindrical shape and enclosed on each end with a plastic capsule. The capacitance range of this type of capacitor is from 0.001 - 2.000micro farad.
• Film Capacitors
  These capacitors use a thin film, which is sometimes metalized when it is manufactured depending on the properties of the capacitor. These can be made from polyester film, polypropylene film, metalized film, polystyrene film, and PTFE film. The PTFE film capacitors are often used for their heat-resistant nature and are great in aerospace technology.
• Non-Polarized Capacitors
  These capacitors are either classified as plastic foil capacitors or electrolytic nonpolarized capacitors. The nonpolarized capacitor type needs the AC applications to be parallel with the signal or power supply for it to work properly.
• Ceramic Capacitors
  The ceramic material is used as a dielectric with these capacitors and was one of the first materials used to produce capacitors as an insulator. The two types of ceramic capacitors are multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) and ceramic disc capacitors.

Where might you use capacitors?

There are multiple uses for capacitors in circuits, meaning that they can be used in a near-endless number of different devices and products.

The most recognized place to find a capacitor would be within your phone's camera flash. The capacitor is charged by a current, which then allows the flash to operate. You can also find capacitors being used in the tuning dial of a radio to help find the right frequency, as well as preventing your speakers from overloading and exploding. Timers that use a steady beep or flashing light also use a capacitor to complete this motion.

Why choose RS for your capacitors?

Here at RS, we're committed to providing you with the right supplies, all at a competitive price. Whatever project or job you need electrical capacitors for, you can guarantee that the products we sell meet industry standards and have been tried and tested. We only stock the best quality products for your tasks.

For top-quality electrical capacitors, shop here with us at RS. If you have any concerns or queries about our services and products, please get in touch with us. Looking for tips or suggestions? Head over to ourexpert hub and find specialist knowledge designed to make your job simpler.