Electrolytic Capacitor Insulation

[runeight]

This may have been discussed already, but I didn't find anything with a quick search.

Is there any data on the insulation value of the plastic on modern electrolytics? I'm thinking of the situation where the can is above ground by a significant voltage (say in a negative supply) and where the capacitor may be in close proximity to grounded components or in contact with the chassis itself, insulated only by the plastic layer.

Thanks for the help.

 

[SY]

I thought that the can was isolated on modern (i.e., non-twistlock) caps. In any case, the plastic layer is way thicker than anything you'll find inside a high voltage film cap, so I wouldn't worry about it too much. It's got to be good for a multiple of the cap's working voltage.

 

[dhaen]

I would not rely on the plastic film for more than 200v or so. Probably fine for a bias supply
Plastic clips are available now, which I use for higher voltages.
I'm not sure how well isolated the cans can be. In the past I've seen leakage to "isolated cans" that has caused trouble.