SKA331M050 Equivalent & Substitute Parts Reference

Part Overview

The SKA331M050 is a 330 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 essential for ongoing system support and component procurement.

Aluminum electrolytic capacitors of this specification are used in general-purpose applications requiring energy storage, filtering, and voltage regulation in circuits operating at 50 V or lower. The obsolete status of the SKA331M050 necessitates evaluation of active alternative components that maintain functional compatibility within the original design parameters.

Substiute Parts

SKA331M050

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 915SKA331M050 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAL202118331E3

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1072MAL202118331E3 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the SKA331M050 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Compatibility Criteria:

• Capacitance value: 330 µF (exact match required)
• Tolerance: ±20% (exact match required)
• Voltage rating: Minimum 50 V (equal or higher acceptable)
• Package type: Axial, Can (exact match required)
• Mounting type: Through Hole (exact match required)
• Polarization: Polar (exact match required)
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C (minimum requirement)

Performance Parameters Evaluated:

• ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance)
• Lifetime at rated temperature
• Ripple current handling capability
• Physical dimensions

The MAL202118331E3 from Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components satisfies all mandatory compatibility criteria. This substitute maintains identical capacitance, tolerance, package configuration, and mounting type. The rated voltage of 63 V exceeds the original 50 V specification, providing additional design margin. Physical dimensions differ slightly, requiring verification of board layout compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitute: MAL202118331E3

The MAL202118331E3 is an active product suitable for direct substitution in applications currently using the SKA331M050. Selection rationale is based on the following factors:

Compliance & Regulatory Status: Both components are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic component procurement.

Functional Equivalence: The substitute maintains identical capacitance (330 µF) and tolerance (±20%), ensuring equivalent electrical performance in the circuit. The higher voltage rating (63 V versus 50 V) provides additional safety margin and does not create incompatibility.

Performance Advantages: The MAL202118331E3 demonstrates superior performance characteristics: lower ESR (409 mOhm versus 450 mOhm), extended lifetime (8000 Hrs versus 2000 Hrs at 85°C), and higher ripple current capability (854 mA @ 10 kHz). These improvements enhance circuit reliability and thermal performance.

Product Availability: The substitute is an active product with confirmed inventory (1031 Pcs), ensuring long-term procurement availability compared to the obsolete SKA331M050.

Physical Considerations: The substitute component has larger physical dimensions (0.492" Dia × 1.181" L versus 0.394" Dia × 0.984" L). Board layout verification is required to confirm that the increased size does not conflict with existing component placement or mechanical constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MAL202118331E3 be used as a direct replacement for the SKA331M050?

A: The MAL202118331E3 is functionally equivalent for applications requiring 330 µF capacitance at 50 V or lower. Both components share identical capacitance, tolerance, polarization, and package configuration. Physical dimensions differ; board layout compatibility must be verified before implementation.

Q: What is the significance of the higher voltage rating (63 V) on the substitute part?

A: The 63 V rating on the MAL202118331E3 exceeds the original 50 V specification. In circuit applications, using a capacitor with a higher voltage rating than required does not create functional problems. The higher rating provides additional design margin and does not affect circuit operation at 50 V or lower.

Q: How do the ESR values compare, and does this affect circuit performance?

A: The MAL202118331E3 has lower ESR (409 mOhm) compared to the SKA331M050 (450 mOhm @ 120 Hz). Lower ESR reduces heat generation and improves filtering performance, particularly in ripple current applications. This represents an improvement over the original component.

Q: What is the impact of the extended lifetime specification on the substitute part?

A: The MAL202118331E3 specifies 8000 Hrs lifetime at 85°C, compared to 2000 Hrs for the SKA331M050. Extended lifetime indicates improved thermal stability and longer operational life under elevated temperature conditions. This enhancement increases component reliability in the application.

Q: Are there any mechanical installation considerations when substituting the MAL202118331E3?

A: The substitute component has larger physical dimensions (0.492" Dia × 1.181" L versus 0.394" Dia × 0.984" L). Verify that the increased diameter and length do not interfere with adjacent components, PCB traces, or mechanical enclosure constraints. Both components use axial leads and through-hole mounting, maintaining installation compatibility.

Q: Do both components meet current regulatory and compliance standards?

A: Both the SKA331M050 and MAL202118331E3 are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. The substitute is an active product, ensuring ongoing compliance with evolving environmental regulations. The obsolete status of the original component makes the active substitute preferable for new procurement.

Q: What ripple current specifications should be considered for this substitution?

A: The SKA331M050 handles 433 mA @ 120 Hz and 497.95 mA @ 1 kHz. The MAL202118331E3 specifies 854 mA @ 10 kHz. The substitute demonstrates superior ripple current capability across frequency ranges, indicating better performance in high-frequency filtering applications.