Electricity: electrical systems and devices – Electrolytic systems or devices – Liquid electrolytic capacitor
Reexamination Certificate
1999-11-17
2001-10-23
Dinkins, Anthony (Department: 2831)
Electricity: electrical systems and devices
Electrolytic systems or devices
Liquid electrolytic capacitor
C361S517000, C361S535000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06307734
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to capacitors and, more particularly, to electrolytic capacitors that include a potting compound.
Electrolytic capacitors typically include a capacitor cartridge positioned within a cannister that is then sealed with a cover. The cannister generally includes a side wall connected to a bottom. The capacitor cartridge is placed in the cannister through an opening in the top. A cover is then placed over the opening and sealed onto the cannister. The cover includes terminals that are electrically connected to the capacitor cartridge.
A problem can occur with the above described electrolytic capacitor if the capacitor is subjected to vibrations. The vibrations can shake the capacitor cartridge loose and a short can occur. Ultimately the unit can fail. One solution to this problem has been to utilize a potting compound within the cannister. Typical potting compounds include tar or wax. However, both tar and wax are flammable and often occupy too much free space within the cannister. Free space is desirable in the cannister due to gas expansion caused by operation of the capacitor. Additionally, the capacitor cartridge may lose elasticity over time and may no longer be secured by the tar or the wax.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In an exemplary embodiment, an electrolytic capacitor utilizes a cannister with an indentation for compressing a silicone potting compound to supply pressure on a capacitor cartridge. The indentation includes a bead that extends around an outer surface of the cannister.
The silicone potting compound is added to the cannister with sufficient empty space remaining in the cannister to allow adequate room for gas expansion during operation of the capacitor. The indentation in the cannister maintains the compression of the silicone on the cartridge at a consistent and uniform rate and allows the silicone to adhere to both the cannister and the cartridge.
The silicone potting compound has a low flammability rating and is elastic. In addition, the silicone is able to retain its elasticity over a broad range of temperatures. Due to the elastic characteristics of the silicone, the cartridge remains fixedly secured within the cannister even when the cannister is subjected to prolonged vibrations.
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Bruvelaitis Sigmund Bruno Alexander
Rodriguez Angelina
Armstrong Teasdale LLP
Dinkins Anthony
General Electric Company
Horton Esq. Carl B.
Wasserbauer Esq. Damian
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