TC59 Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC59 is a 50 µF, 250 V aluminum electrolytic capacitor in axial configuration manufactured by Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE). This component is classified as obsolete and is used in general-purpose applications requiring polar capacitive storage. Due to its obsolete status, equivalent substitute parts are necessary for ongoing maintenance, repair, and new design implementations where this specification is required.

Substiute Parts

TC59

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 769TC59 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

WBR50-250A

Cornell Dubilier Electronics (CDE)In Stock: 848WBR50-250A Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TC59 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Capacitance: 50 µF (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating: 250 V (exact match required)
• Polarization: Polar (exact match required)
• Package Type: Axial, Can (exact match required)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (exact match required)

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance): Higher values acceptable if application does not require low impedance performance
• Lifetime @ Temperature: Higher values provide extended operational life
• Tolerance: Wider tolerances acceptable if circuit design permits
• Ripple Current Ratings: Lower values acceptable if application ripple current requirements are met

The WBR50-250A meets all mandatory matching parameters and qualifies as a direct substitute for the TC59.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

TC59 to WBR50-250A Substitution:

The WBR50-250A is a direct functional substitute for the TC59 based on matching capacitance, voltage rating, polarization, and through-hole axial package configuration. Selection of WBR50-250A is appropriate when:

• The application circuit design accommodates the higher ESR value of 5 Ohm at 120 Hz
• The application ripple current requirements do not exceed 140 mA at 120 Hz or 182 mA at 100 kHz
• RoHS3 compliance is required or preferred for new designs and procurement
• Extended operational lifetime of 2000 hours at 85°C provides design margin

Physical Dimension Consideration:

The WBR50-250A has different physical dimensions (0.650" Dia x 1.830" L) compared to the TC59 (0.750" Dia x 1.625" L). PCB layout and mechanical clearance verification is required prior to implementation.

Product Status:

Both the TC59 and WBR50-250A are classified as obsolete. For new designs, evaluation of current-production aluminum electrolytic capacitors with equivalent electrical specifications is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the WBR50-250A replace the TC59 in all applications?

A: The WBR50-250A is electrically compatible with the TC59 for applications where the higher ESR (5 Ohm vs. 2.15 Ohm) and lower ripple current ratings (140 mA @ 120 Hz vs. 640 mA @ 120 Hz) do not negatively impact circuit performance. Physical dimensions differ and must be verified for PCB fit.

Q: What is the significance of the ESR difference between TC59 and WBR50-250A?

A: ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) affects impedance and heat dissipation. The TC59 has lower ESR (2.15 Ohm), making it suitable for applications with higher ripple current or lower impedance requirements. The WBR50-250A with 5 Ohm ESR is acceptable for general-purpose applications with moderate ripple current demands.

Q: Are there physical mounting differences between these parts?

A: Both parts use through-hole axial mounting. However, the TC59 measures 0.750" diameter by 1.625" length, while the WBR50-250A measures 0.650" diameter by 1.830" length. PCB hole spacing and component clearance must be verified for compatibility.

Q: What does RoHS3 compliance mean for the WBR50-250A?

A: RoHS3 compliance indicates the WBR50-250A meets Restriction of Hazardous Substances regulations. The TC59 is non-compliant. For applications requiring regulatory compliance or procurement from regulated industries, the WBR50-250A is the appropriate selection.

Q: Can I use the WBR50-250A in high-ripple-current applications?

A: No. The WBR50-250A ripple current rating (140 mA @ 120 Hz) is significantly lower than the TC59 (640 mA @ 120 Hz). Applications requiring high ripple current handling must use components with higher ripple current specifications.

Q: What is the tolerance difference between these capacitors?

A: The TC59 has -10%, +50% tolerance, while the WBR50-250A has -10%, +100% tolerance. The wider tolerance of the WBR50-250A is acceptable for general-purpose applications but may require circuit design verification for precision-dependent applications.