NLW3-25 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The NLW3-25 is a 3 µF, 25 V aluminum electrolytic capacitor in axial, can package manufactured by Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE). This component is classified as obsolete and has been discontinued. The NLW3-25 was designed for general-purpose applications requiring compact axial-lead electrolytic capacitor functionality. Due to its obsolete status, identifying qualified substitute components is necessary for ongoing circuit support, maintenance, and new designs requiring equivalent performance characteristics.

Substiute Parts

NLW3-25

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 979NLW3-25 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

335TMA050M

Cornell Dubilier / Illinois CapacitorIn Stock: 805335TMA050M Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The 335TMA050M qualifies as a functional substitute based on the following critical parameters:

Capacitance Compatibility: The NLW3-25 capacitance specification of 3 µF falls within the allowed tolerance range of the 335TMA050M (3.3 µF, ±20% tolerance), providing approximately 10% higher capacitance. This variance is acceptable for general-purpose applications where the original -10%, +75% tolerance indicates flexibility in capacitance value.

Voltage Rating Upgrade: The 335TMA050M operates at 50 V rated voltage, compared to the original 25 V specification. A higher voltage rating maintains compatibility with the original circuit design as it provides superior voltage margin and stress reduction across the operating range.

Electrical Performance: Both components share identical operating temperature range (-40°C to 105°C), polar configuration, and are rated for general-purpose applications. The substitute exhibits improved ESR performance (60.286 Ohm @ 120 Hz versus 67 Ohm) and extended lifetime rating (2000 Hrs @ 105°C versus 1000 Hrs).

Physical Compatibility: Both components feature axial, can package configuration with through-hole mounting type, ensuring mechanical and circuit board layout compatibility.

Regulatory Compliance: Both components meet ROHS3 compliance and carry identical MSL rating of 1 (Unlimited), supporting identical handling and storage requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 335TMA050M is an active production substitute for the obsolete NLW3-25. Key selection advantages include: active product status ensuring continued availability and supply chain reliability; superior ESR characteristics reducing heat generation and improving circuit efficiency; extended lifetime rating of 2000 hours at 105°C providing enhanced reliability margins; and elevated voltage rating offering improved circuit protection and operational margin.

The substitute maintains full mechanical compatibility through identical axial, can package configuration and through-hole mounting type. Both components meet equivalent RoHS3 compliance and MSL requirements, supporting identical manufacturing and assembly processes.

The 3.3 µF capacitance of the substitute exceeds the original 3 µF specification within acceptable variance for general-purpose applications. This higher nominal value, combined with the ±20% tolerance band, ensures functional equivalence while supporting design flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Will the 335TMA050M directly replace the NLW3-25 in existing circuits?

A: Yes, the 335TMA050M provides direct electrical and mechanical replacement. The substitute maintains compatible package configuration (axial, can), mounting type (through-hole), and operating temperature range. The higher voltage rating (50 V versus 25 V) reduces component stress and improves circuit reliability without requiring design modifications.

Q: How does the capacitance difference between 3 µF and 3.3 µF affect circuit operation?

A: The 3.3 µF capacitance of the substitute falls within acceptable variance for general-purpose applications. The original NLW3-25 specified -10%, +75% tolerance, indicating that capacitance values between 2.7 µF and 5.25 µF were acceptable. The substitute's 3.3 µF nominal value operates within this design margin.

Q: Are there any physical fitment considerations?

A: The substitute is physically smaller (0.197" × 0.512" versus 0.280" × 0.570") while maintaining identical package type and mounting configuration. Both components feature axial leads and can-style cases. The reduced size of the substitute improves circuit board layout flexibility and may reduce overall assembly footprint.

Q: How do the ESR and ripple current ratings compare?

A: The 335TMA050M exhibits improved ESR performance (60.286 Ohm versus 67 Ohm at 120 Hz), reducing voltage ripple and heat dissipation. The substitute's extended lifetime specification (2000 hours versus 1000 hours at 105°C) reflects superior thermal stability and operational reliability under sustained stress conditions.

Q: Does the substitute maintain the same regulatory compliance?

A: Yes, both components are ROHS3 compliant and carry identical MSL rating of 1 (Unlimited). Manufacturing and handling requirements remain unchanged, supporting seamless integration into existing quality and supply chain processes.

Q: Why is the NLW3-25 no longer manufactured?

A: The NLW3-25 is classified as obsolete, indicating discontinuation of production by Cornell Dubilier Electronics. The 335TMA050M remains in active production, providing ongoing availability and technical support for new designs and maintenance requirements.