Capacitors may catastrophically fail when subjected to voltages or currents beyond their rating, or as they reach their normal end of life. Dielectric or metal interconnection failures may create arcing that vaporizes the dielectric fluid, resulting in case bulging, rupture, or even an explosion. Capacitors used in RF or sustained high-current applications can overheat, especially in the center of the capacitor rolls. Capacitors used within high-energy capacitor banks can violently explode when a short in one capacitor causes sudden dumping of energy stored in the rest of the bank into the failing unit. High voltage vacuum capacitors can generate soft X-rays even during normal operation. Proper containment, fusing, and preventive maintenance can help to minimize these hazards. COUNT 5
QSN1 What could cause the failure of a capacitor? ANS1 when subjected to voltages or currents beyond their rating QSN2 What can happen to capacitors used in high current applications? ANS2 overheat QSN3 What can happen to capacitors used in high energy capacitor banks? ANS3 violently explode QSN4 What type of capacitors can generate soft x-rays? ANS4 High voltage vacuum capacitors QSN5 What is one way to help minimize capacitor dangers? ANS5 preventive maintenance