Towards A Model-based Prognostics Methodology for Electrolytic Capacitors: A Case Study Based on Electrical Overstress Accelerated Aging

A remaining useful life prediction methodology for elec- trolytic capacitors is presented. This methodology adopts a Kalman filter approach in conjunction with an empirical state-based degradation model to predict the degradation of capacitor parameters through the life of the capacitor. Elec- trolytic capacitors are used in several applications ranging from power supplies on critical avionics equipment to power drivers for electro-mechanical actuators. These devices are known for their comparatively low reliability and given their criticality in electronics subsystems they are good candi- dates for component level prognostics and health manage- ment. Prognostics provides a way to assess remaining use- ful life of a capacitor based on its current state of health and its anticipated future usage and operational conditions. This paper discusses the empirical degradation models and experi- mental results of an accelerated aging test performed on a set of identical capacitors subjected to electrical stress. The data form the basis for developing the Kalman-filter based remain- ing life prediction algorithm.