Aerovox Industrial Capacitor 30 µF 660V (Vintage, Oil-Filled, Power Factor Correction – PFC)

This is not just a replacement part; it is a piece of power electronics history. We present an Aerovox Industrial Capacitor 30 µF 660V, a component designed in an era when long-term reliability was the gold standard. Its imposing size and hermetically sealed metal construction clearly indicate its purpose: to handle high voltages and currents in the most demanding industrial environments.

Although this is a vintage component (the date code “8123” suggests it was manufactured in the 23rd week of 1981), it has been rigorously tested using a professional capacitance meter to ensure its 30 µF capacitance is still within specification and ready to return to service.

Primary Application: Power Factor Correction (PFC) and Motors

A capacitor with a 660 VAC voltage rating is designed for high-power applications, far beyond residential systems. Its primary function is:

• Power Factor Correction (PFC): In industrial environments, large motors create inductive loads that are inefficient for the electrical grid. Capacitor banks like this one are installed in parallel with motors to counteract this inductance, effectively “correcting” the power factor to a value close to 1. This reduces electricity costs and improves the overall efficiency of the entire facility.

• High-Voltage Motors: It can be used as a run capacitor in large single-phase motors or in three-phase motor circuits operating on 480V or 600V power systems.

Detailed Technical Specifications of the Aerovox Industrial Capacitor 30 µF 660V

• Brand: Aerovox

• Part Number: N94R6630 (Internal Reference)

• Capacitance: 30 µF (microfarads)
  

• Rated Voltage: 660 VAC

• Frequency: 60 Hz (also operable at 50 Hz)

• Construction: Oval Metal Housing, Hermetically Sealed

• Dielectric: Oil-impregnated polypropylene film (Oil-Filled)

• Safety: Protected D 200A (Internal pressure interrupter for fail-safe protection)

• Dimensions: 250 mm (height) x 90 mm (width) x 49 mm (thickness)

• Condition: Vintage, tested and 100% functional.

Manufacturer History: Aerovox

Founded in 1922, Aerovox is one of the oldest and most respected capacitor manufacturers. With a reputation built on producing military-grade and industrial components, Aerovox was a cornerstone in the electrification of America. Its oil-filled capacitors from the 1970s and 1980s are legendary for their “bulletproof” construction and incredible longevity, often outlasting the machinery in which they were installed.

(FAQ)

Q: Can I use this Aerovox Industrial Capacitor 30 µF 660V for my home air conditioner?
A: NO, ABSOLUTELY NOT. This capacitor is rated for 660V, designed for industrial systems. Residential air conditioning units typically use 370V or 440V capacitors. Using this component is unnecessary, and its physical size will likely not fit in the unit.

Q: The capacitor is old, is it still reliable?
A: Yes. In fact, many engineers specifically look for these vintage capacitors for their superior reliability. They were “over-engineered” using high-quality materials. Additionally, it has been tested by us to confirm proper functionality.

Q: What does “Protected D 200A” mean?
A: It is a safety feature. It indicates an internal pressure interrupter (“Protected”) that disconnects the capacitor in the event of a fault to prevent casing rupture. “200A” likely refers to the fault current level it can safely interrupt.

Q: Is the oil inside dangerous?
A: Capacitors from this era manufactured in the U.S. are typically PCB-free, but they should still always be handled with care. As long as the casing is not punctured or leaking, it is considered completely safe.