
Capacitors
Capacitors are electronic components that store and release electrical energy. They consist of two conductive plates separated by a dielectric material, which acts as an insulator. The conductive plates can be made of metal or foil, while the dielectric material can be made of various materials such as ceramic, electrolytic, film, or tantalum.
When a voltage is applied across the terminals of a capacitor, it stores electrical charge on its plates. The magnitude of the stored charge is directly proportional to the applied voltage and the capacitance value of the capacitor.
It's important to consider the voltage and capacitance ratings of capacitors to ensure they are suitable for the intended application. Capacitors can have different physical sizes, temperature ratings, and tolerances, which should be carefully selected based on the specific requirements of the circuit or system.
Products
More Information about Capacitors
Eaton capacitors are designed to provide reliable power quality and energy efficiency in various applications, from industrial and commercial settings to utility and renewable energy systems. They are available in different types and configurations to suit specific needs. Some common types of capacitors offered by Eaton include power factor correction capacitors, motor run capacitors, and DC link capacitors.
Power factor correction capacitors are used to improve the power factor of electrical systems by reducing reactive power and optimizing energy consumption. Eaton offers a range of power factor correction capacitors, including low voltage, medium voltage, and harmonic filtering capacitors. These capacitors help to maintain a high power factor, which results in improved system efficiency, reduced energy costs, and increased capacity for electrical loads.
Motor run capacitors are specifically designed for use in motor applications. They are used to improve motor performance, efficiency, and power factor. Eaton motor run capacitors are built to withstand the demanding conditions in motor-driven systems and help ensure reliable motor operation.
DC link capacitors are commonly used in applications such as variable frequency drives (VFDs) and renewable energy systems. These capacitors provide energy storage and voltage stabilization in DC circuits, enabling smooth and efficient operation of electronic devices. Eaton offers DC link capacitors with high capacitance and voltage ratings to meet the requirements of different applications.
Eaton capacitors are designed and manufactured to meet industry standards for reliability and performance. They undergo rigorous testing and quality control processes to ensure their durability and suitability for various environments. Eaton also provides comprehensive technical support and application expertise to assist customers in selecting the right capacitors and optimizing their performance.
Differences Between Power Supplies, Inverters and Transformers
Power supplies
A power supply converts one type of power to another. The most common example is a power supply that takes AC voltage and converts it to DC voltage. While it is very common to use power supplies in industrial applications, one very common place to see a power supply used is for the devices such as: smartphones, laptops or tablets. Most devices come with a power cord that has a bulky block on the end of it. This block is where the power supply is located. Most devices do not use AC power, which is the type of power being supplied to homes. They use some form or DC power. The power supply changes the AC voltage to the correct DC voltage for the device.
Inverters
Inverters work in a similar way to power supplies, with one major difference, instead of converting AC power to DC power, the inverter does the opposite. It converts DC power to AC power. DC power is created by devices such as solar panels or batteries, but most homes require AC power. To convert the DC power that is generated by the solar panels, an inverter is used.
Transformers
Transformers convert one type of AC power to a different type of AC power. For example, homes commonly use 120 VAC and automatic sprinkling systems have valves that require 24 VAC. A transformer converts 120 VAC to 24 VAC so the sprinkler valves can operate properly. Transformers come in many different shapes and sizes. and can convert AC power up or down.