TC53 Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC53 is a 12 µF, 250 V aluminum electrolytic capacitor in axial configuration manufactured by Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE). This component is classified as obsolete. Due to its discontinued status, identifying suitable substitute components with equivalent or improved performance characteristics is essential for design continuity and system maintenance.

Substiute Parts

TC53

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 1138TC53 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

WBR12-250A

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 1227WBR12-250A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the TC53 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Capacitance Value: Must be 12 µF to maintain circuit functionality
• Voltage Rating: Must be rated for 250 V minimum to ensure safe operation within the original electrical specifications
• Mounting Type: Through Hole configuration required for physical compatibility with existing PCB layouts
• Package Style: Axial, Can format to match the original form factor
• Polarization: Polar configuration as specified in the original design

The identified substitute, WBR12-250A, satisfies these core substitution criteria while offering improved reliability characteristics through extended lifetime ratings and enhanced RoHS compliance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The WBR12-250A substitute offers functional equivalence with the TC53 across all critical electrical parameters: identical capacitance (12 µF) and voltage rating (250 V), matching through-hole mounting and axial package configuration.

The WBR12-250A demonstrates improved lifecycle specifications with doubled thermal lifetime (2000 Hrs @ 85°C versus 1000 Hrs), providing enhanced reliability for extended operational periods. Additionally, the substitute achieves ROHS3 compliance, meeting current regulatory requirements for electronics manufacturing and supply chain compliance, whereas the TC53 is classified as RoHS non-compliant.

Physical dimensions differ between components: TC53 measures 0.625" diameter × 1.125" length (15.88mm × 28.58mm), while WBR12-250A measures 0.400" diameter × 1.320" length (10.16mm × 33.53mm). Design layout modifications may be required to accommodate the altered form factor.

Ripple current handling characteristics differ between the two components. The TC53 exhibits higher ripple current capacity at low frequencies (262 mA @ 120 Hz), while the WBR12-250A demonstrates reduced low-frequency ripple current (62 mA @ 120 Hz). Circuit applications requiring high ripple current handling at low frequencies require detailed electrical verification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What makes WBR12-250A a suitable substitute for TC53? A: The WBR12-250A maintains identical capacitance (12 µF) and voltage rating (250 V) as the TC53. Both components share through-hole mounting configuration and axial can package format, satisfying the primary electrical and mechanical compatibility criteria.

Q: Are there electrical differences I need to consider? A: Yes. The WBR12-250A has higher ESR (21.5 Ohm vs. 8.65 Ohm @ 120Hz) and lower ripple current capacity at low frequencies (62 mA vs. 262 mA @ 120 Hz). Applications operating at high ripple current conditions require circuit-level analysis to confirm performance adequacy.

Q: Do the physical dimensions matter for replacement? A: Yes. TC53 dimensions (0.625" Dia × 1.125" L) differ from WBR12-250A (0.400" Dia × 1.320" L). Layout modifications may be necessary, particularly in confined mounting spaces.

Q: What is the advantage of the WBR12-250A regarding compliance? A: The WBR12-250A achieves ROHS3 compliance, supporting modern environmental and regulatory standards. The TC53 is non-compliant, making WBR12-250A the preferred choice for new designs and manufacturing environments with RoHS requirements.

Q: How do the tolerance ratings differ? A: TC53 specifies -10%, +50% tolerance, while WBR12-250A provides -10%, +100% tolerance. The broader tolerance band in the substitute component may affect circuit operation in precision applications requiring tight capacitance control.

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