NLW3-50 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The NLW3-50 is a 3 µF, 50 V aluminum electrolytic capacitor in axial, can package manufactured by Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE). This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and production continuity. The NLW series represents legacy technology; however, functionally equivalent alternatives remain available from active product lines that maintain compatibility with through-hole axial mounting applications.

Substiute Parts

NLW3-50

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 988NLW3-50 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

335TMA050M

Cornell Dubilier / Illinois CapacitorIn Stock: 805335TMA050M Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the NLW3-50 is based on the following critical parameters that must remain constant or within acceptable tolerance:

Fixed Parameters (Must Match Exactly):

• Voltage Rating: 50 V
• Polarization: Polar
• Package Type: Axial, Can
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 105°C
• RoHS Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant

Variable Parameters (Within Acceptable Range):

• Capacitance: 3 µF nominal (tolerance range allows ±20% variation)
• ESR: Lower values acceptable (improved performance)
• Lifetime @ 105°C: Equal or greater values acceptable (improved reliability)
• Ripple Current: Equal or greater values acceptable (improved performance)

The substitute part 335TMA050M meets all fixed parameters and provides improved performance characteristics in variable parameters, making it a direct functional substitute for the obsolete NLW3-50.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 335TMA050M is the designated manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete NLW3-50. Selection of this substitute part is based on the following engineering criteria:

Product Status: The NLW3-50 is obsolete, while the 335TMA050M is an active product. Transition to the active substitute ensures long-term component availability and supply chain continuity.

Electrical Compatibility: Both parts operate at 50 V with identical voltage ratings and operating temperature ranges (-40°C to 105°C). The substitute's 3.3 µF capacitance falls within the tolerance specification of the original part and is suitable for general-purpose applications.

Performance Improvement: The 335TMA050M provides superior performance characteristics: ESR is reduced from 67 Ohm to 60.286 Ohm, and lifetime at 105°C is doubled from 1000 hours to 2000 hours. These improvements enhance circuit reliability and reduce thermal stress.

Compliance: Both parts are ROHS3 compliant and carry identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications, ensuring regulatory and trade compliance equivalence.

Physical Compatibility: Both parts are through-hole mounted axial capacitors in can packages. The substitute has a smaller physical footprint (0.197" diameter vs. 0.280" diameter), which provides layout flexibility without compromising electrical performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 335TMA050M be used as a direct replacement for the NLW3-50 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The 335TMA050M is the manufacturer-recommended substitute and maintains electrical and mechanical compatibility. Both parts share identical voltage ratings, operating temperature ranges, polarization, and through-hole axial mounting configuration. The substitute's 3.3 µF capacitance is within acceptable tolerance for general-purpose applications.

Q: What is the capacitance difference between the NLW3-50 and 335TMA050M?

A: The NLW3-50 is rated at 3 µF, while the 335TMA050M is rated at 3.3 µF. This 0.3 µF difference represents a 10% increase and falls within the tolerance specifications of the original part. For general-purpose applications, this difference is functionally equivalent.

Q: Are there physical size differences between these parts?

A: Yes. The NLW3-50 measures 0.280" diameter by 0.570" length, while the 335TMA050M measures 0.197" diameter by 0.512" length. The substitute has a smaller footprint, which may provide layout advantages in space-constrained designs. Both maintain through-hole axial mounting compatibility.

Q: Does the substitute part have better performance characteristics?

A: The 335TMA050M provides improved performance in two key areas: ESR is reduced from 67 Ohm to 60.286 Ohm at 120 Hz, and lifetime at 105°C is increased from 1000 hours to 2000 hours. These improvements enhance circuit stability and component longevity.

Q: Are both parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. Both the NLW3-50 and 335TMA050M are ROHS3 compliant, ensuring equivalent regulatory compliance for applications requiring RoHS certification.

Q: What is the tolerance difference between these parts?

A: The NLW3-50 has a tolerance of -10%, +75%, while the 335TMA050M has a tolerance of ±20%. The substitute provides a tighter, more predictable tolerance specification, which may improve circuit performance consistency.

Q: Can the 335TMA050M be used in high-ripple-current applications?

A: The ripple current specifications differ between the two parts. At 120 Hz, the NLW3-50 supports 30 mA while the 335TMA050M supports 22 mA. However, at higher frequencies (50 kHz), the 335TMA050M supports 44 mA compared to the NLW3-50's 34.5 mA at 10 kHz. Application suitability depends on the specific ripple current frequency and magnitude in your circuit.

Q: Is the 335TMA050M actively manufactured?

A: Yes. The 335TMA050M is classified as an active product, ensuring ongoing availability and supply chain reliability. The NLW3-50 is obsolete and no longer manufactured.