In this question-and-answer style article, Charcroft director, Debbie Rowland, outlines the issues and solutions facing capacitor buyers from lead times to obsolescence.
Q: What potential bumps in the road should buyers be aware of when sourcing capacitors?
A: One issue is a tight specification which closely defines every aspect of the capacitor. This ties the buyer into sourcing that exact capacitor. If the specification is created without considering availability, the buyer could also face sourcing a capacitor on long lead time or allocation. Specifying a sole-source capacitor is also likely to present the buyer with challenges.
The solution is to involve the buyer, or distributor, before the specification is finalised. Keep the specification open, by specifying the capacitor by a description rather than a fixed part number and manufacturer. This lets a knowledgeable distributor source a capacitor which meets the specification but may have a tighter tolerance and faster lead time.
Q: How are capacitor lead times and pricing?
A: When capacitor lead time reached one year, orders piled in as OEMs double ordered to increase the chance of delivery. Now, the factories are more in control of manufacturing capacity. That means, with a few exceptions, capacitor lead times are remaining steady or coming in.
The situation is different for metals used to manufacture capacitors which have seen significant cost increases. It is not possible to simply swap one metal for a cheaper alternative. While metal and other material costs remain volatile, in addition to increased labour costs and inflation, capacitor manufacturers can use higher prices to buffer increases. By offering long-term pricing and inventory agreements, Charcroft has helped OEMs and CEMs ensure consistent availability and cost.
Q: Are capacitors going obsolete and how do you relay this information to customers?
A: A capacitor can be made obsolete when the manufacturing company is acquired, and the new manufacturer uses the legacy part numbers in addition to part numbers already in use. The legacy part numbers are then made obsolete and replaced by the new part numbers. This makes sourcing legacy part numbers
more difficult unless the distributor understands the capacitor’s history.
Acquisition can also save a capacitor from obsolescence and Chacroft has made acquisitions to ensure UK manufacture of legacy capacitors.
Q: Have you witnessed any capacitor counterfeiting?
A: Counterfeit risks are higher when buying from an agent or the grey market which is why Charcroft has a fully franchised line card. It is better to ask the distributor to find an alternative capacitor from the franchised line card, rather than risk buying a counterfeit from the grey market.
Q: Any other advice for sourcing capacitors?
A: Distributors must be able to forecast true requirements, especially when the project has a longevity of three, five or even 10 years. Communication is key. Working closely with the OEM and capacitor manufacturer, it is possible to ensure consistent long-term availability and pricing.
