Re: [EE] solid aluminum caps on 60hz

Sent with Proton Mail secure email.

On Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 at 6:24 PM, Spehro Pefhany <[email protected]> wrote:

> Hi, MS:-
> 
> Well, the current can’t be any higher than the short-circuit current of the transformer. Maybe you can measure that to get some clarity. Compare with your rectifier ratings. There will be a half-cycle surge rating, or something of that ilk.
> 
> I doubt that it’s an issue unless your transformer is massively overrated or you are using wimpy rectifiers, but that’s no guarantee.
> 
> Best regards, Spehro Pefhany
> 
> > On May 15, 2025, at 8:11 AM, madscientistatlarge [email protected] wrote:
> > 
> > I'm building a small (2A 12v) power supply off of a transfomer so 60Hz. Is using the solid caps a problem? I understand they have a reduced impediance and am worried about the power on current initially charging the cap and during each half cycle when the caps charge back up. Thank you.
> > 
> > piclist
> 
> 
> --
> http://www.piclist.com/techref/piclist PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
> View/change your membership options at
> https://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist

I was planning on using a 6A bridge rectifier.  I know it has to be more than a 2A rectifier and I'd like beefy.   I was thinking about measuring the ripple current to optimize the cap value.  For some reason it didn't occur to me to just measure it and check with data sheet.  Too many things to do lately, I'm not getting enough naps....

-- 
http://www.piclist.com/techref/piclist PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
https://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist