Equivalent & Substitute Parts for Cornell Dubilier Electronics 38FB4420

Part Overview

The Cornell Dubilier Electronics 38FB4420 is a 20 µF film capacitor rated for 440V AC operation with polypropylene metallized dielectric construction. This component is designed for motor run and power factor correction (PFC) applications in industrial equipment. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for maintenance, repair, and replacement operations. The 38FB4420A-F represents the current production equivalent with enhanced compliance characteristics.

Substiute Parts

38FB4420

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 97038FB4420 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

38FB4420A-F

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 95138FB4420A-F Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 38FB4420 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Capacitance value: 20 µF
• Tolerance: ±10%
• Voltage rating (AC): 440V
• Dielectric material: Polypropylene (PP), Metallized
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 70°C
• Mounting configuration: Chassis Mount, Requires Holder/Bracket
• Package style: Radial, Can
• Termination type: Quick Connect, Disconnect
• Lead spacing: 0.813" (20.64mm)

The 38FB4420A-F qualifies as a direct substitute because it maintains identical electrical specifications, mechanical dimensions within acceptable tolerance, and compatible termination characteristics. Physical dimension variations (height seated maximum: 3.250" vs. 3.160") remain within acceptable mechanical clearance for standard mounting applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 38FB4420A-F is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete 38FB4420 based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status Consideration: The 38FB4420 is classified as obsolete, while the 38FB4420A-F maintains active production status. This ensures long-term availability and supply chain continuity for replacement applications.

Compliance Enhancement: The 38FB4420A-F achieves ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, whereas the original part is RoHS non-compliant. For applications subject to environmental regulations or OEM compliance requirements, the substitute provides regulatory alignment without electrical or mechanical compromise.

Electrical Equivalence: Both parts maintain identical capacitance (20 µF), tolerance (±10%), voltage rating (440V AC), and dielectric composition (polypropylene metallized). These parameters are critical for motor run and power factor correction circuit performance and are fully preserved in the substitute.

Mechanical Compatibility: The substitute exhibits a 0.090" (2.29mm) reduction in seated height while maintaining identical length, width, and lead spacing. This dimensional variation is within standard mechanical clearance tolerances for chassis-mounted applications and does not compromise holder/bracket compatibility.

Inventory Availability: The 38FB4420A-F maintains higher stock levels (922 pcs) compared to the obsolete part (883 pcs), supporting immediate procurement for replacement operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 38FB4420A-F be used as a direct replacement for the 38FB4420 in existing equipment?

A: Yes. The 38FB4420A-F is electrically and mechanically equivalent. Identical capacitance, voltage rating, tolerance, dielectric material, operating temperature range, mounting configuration, and lead spacing ensure direct substitution. The minor height reduction (0.090") does not affect standard chassis mount holder/bracket compatibility.

Q: What is the significance of the RoHS compliance difference between these parts?

A: The 38FB4420 is RoHS non-compliant, while the 38FB4420A-F achieves ROHS3 compliance. For new equipment designs or applications subject to environmental regulations (EU RoHS Directive, California RoHS, or equivalent), the 38FB4420A-F provides regulatory alignment. For legacy equipment repair using existing stock, either part functions identically from an electrical standpoint.

Q: Are there any performance differences between the 38FB4420 and 38FB4420A-F?

A: No performance differences exist. Both parts deliver identical electrical characteristics: 20 µF capacitance at ±10% tolerance, 440V AC rating, polypropylene metallized dielectric, and -40°C to 70°C operating range. Both are suitable for motor run and power factor correction applications.

Q: What does "Requires Holder/Bracket" mean for the mounting type?

A: This indicates the capacitor is a radial can-style component that requires a mechanical holder or bracket for chassis mounting. The quick connect/disconnect termination allows tool-free installation and removal when properly secured in the holder assembly.

Q: Is the lead spacing identical between both parts?

A: Yes. Both the 38FB4420 and 38FB4420A-F maintain 0.813" (20.64mm) lead spacing, ensuring compatibility with existing holder/bracket tooling and PCB layouts designed for the original part.

Q: Why is the 38FB4420 listed as obsolete?

A: The 38FB4420 has been superseded by the 38FB4420A-F in the manufacturer's product line. The newer variant maintains full electrical and mechanical equivalence while offering improved regulatory compliance (ROHS3). Obsolete designation indicates the original part is no longer in active production; the substitute ensures continued availability for replacement applications.