Ultracapacitors or supercapacitors are known for their high capacitance. Unlike a standard capacitor, a supercapacitor can be charged or discharged repeatedly over an extended period of time. On the other hand, electrochemical batteries have a defined cycle in which they can be charged.

Age doesn't affect an ultracapacitor as it does an electrochemical battery. An ultracapacitor can last around 10-15 years under normal circumstances. However, it can lose its life quickly if you apply higher voltages than recommended. Therefore, there is no fixed lifespan for all an ultracapacitor, but generally, it lasts from a few years to more than a decade.

With their market size expected to reach $22.50 Billion by 2028, it is crucial to discuss their applications, failure points, and how to avoid them. So, keep reading until the end if you want all that valuable information.

。The Common Applications of Ultracapacitors

Supercapacitors are considered highly suitable for peak and backup power support because of their capabilities, such as a high power density, rapid charge & discharge, low maintenance, and a low environmental footprint. They find their applications in different areas, including;

• Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs): where the ultracapacitor can provide the energy for a burst of acceleration and store the energy generated through generative braking.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): where an ultracapacitor provides high power output during an outage. Here, it is used as a backup power source to keep the essentials running.
• Renewable Energy Storage: where it can be used with other equipment, such as solar and wind power, to provide energy during hours when demand peaks.
• Industrial Equipment: where an ultracapacitor can provide power during start-up or other periods when high power is needed. Hence, it helps reduce the stress on the main power supply and makes the system more efficient.

。What Will Lead to a Failed Supercapacitor?

Several factors can cause an ultracapacitor to fail, such as;

。 Overvotage

The capacitor manufacturer always tells you the safe voltage range for its ultracapacitor. You're likely to damage it if you go beyond that limit. Overvoltage leads to the breakage of the dielectric material, which often results in a short circuit or permanent damage to the capacitor.

。 Overheating

Since supercapacitors are often deployed in high-power discharge cycles, the process generates much heat. Unfortunately, it can lead to thermal runaways, which is one of the primary reasons for the failures of ultracapacitors. Similarly, overheating from faulty charging and discharging cycles can also damage capacitors.

。 Physica Damage

Besides technical issues, simple physical damage can also kill an ultracapacitor. From dropping to crushing it, there are many ways in which it can sustain irreversible damage to its dielectric material.

。 Aging

Although supercapacitors last much longer than their normal counterparts, they still have a lifespan. As time passes, their capacitance decreases, and internal resistance increases. It affects their efficiency and can ultimately result in a complete failure.

。How to Use Them Correctly

Here are some of the guidelines you should follow to avoid damaging an ultracapacitor.

。 Charging & Discharging

Use a suitable charging circuit that prevents overvoltage and overheating. It is crucial not to exceed the given current and voltage limit to keep the capacitor safe.

。 Temperature Monitoring

High power cycles generate a lot of heat which can damage a supercapacitor. So, it is always important that you keep monitoring temperature fluctuations.

。 Safe Handing

While focusing on technical aspects, ensure that you're physically handling the supercapacitor with utmost care. Dropping or crushing it can result in irreversible damage, so keep an eye out for it.

。 Safe Storage

Supercapacitors need a suitable storage environment that is dry, cool, and away from direct sunlight. So, make sure you store your supercapacitors so that these factors don't affect their performance, and closely follow the instructions of the capacitor manufacturer.

。Conclusion

Supercapacitors are a much better and more robust option than regular capacitors, bringing you peace of mind.

If you have decided to purchase one, look no further than Beryl Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. We're high-tech manufacturers of ultracapacitors and have been serving our customers since 2004. With 91 National patents, 40% R&D technicians, ISO9001, ISO14001, IATF16949, and intellectual property management system certification, Beryl capacitor is simply the best product you can buy.

So, stop waiting and supercharge your business with our ultracapacitors. If you have any questions, contact us, and we'll happily assist you.