CapBase02

thingiverse

This base and capacitor is used in a physics lab where students investigate charging capacitors and calculate the value of the capacitor.\r\n\r\nI created this base to hold the capacitor securely, making it easy to connect into a circuit using banana plugs. Before I made these bases, we were using "alligator" clips, which often caused the capacitor's legs to bend over and over. The stress on the leads may have changed the capacitance, possibly due to the repeated bending. This design relieves stress on the leads and is more elegant, making it easier to store the caps.\r\n\r\nThe bases are designed to stack, allowing for easy storage in a standard 6" wide cardboard bin. They fit side by side and stack three high.\r\n\r\n## Parts\r\n\r\nThe capacitor used is a 4700uF, 16V Aluminum Electrolytic with a 20% tolerance.\r\n\r\n- Digi-key (Canada) part number [1572-1162-ND](https://www.digikey.ca/products/en?keywords=1572-1162-nd).\r\n\r\nThe banana plugs are compact versions to keep the height down.\r\n\r\n- Digi-key (Canada) part number [J151-ND](https://www.digikey.ca/product-detail/en/cinch-connectivity-solutions-johnson/108-0902-001/J151-ND/5929) (Red).\r\n- Digi-key (Canada) part number [J152-ND](https://www.digikey.ca/product-detail/en/cinch-connectivity-solutions-johnson/108-0903-001/J152-ND/5930) (Black).\r\n\r\n## Assembly\r\n\r\n1. First, install the red and black banana plugs (Red in the "+" and Black in the "-"). I use a dab of glue gun glue on the nut once installed to ensure it stays put.\r\n2. Bend the capacitor's legs so that the value written on the capacitor is hidden when it is mounted. I bend the leads gently with my fingers.\r\n3. Verify the polarity and then use a glue gun to attach the capacitor in place. E6000 hobby glue also works, giving you more time to remove the cap if it's inserted backwards.\r\n4. If the leads are not fed through the banana plug's hole, simply wrap them around the post and solder in place.\r\n\r\n## Notes\r\n\r\n**When printing from Thingiverse, flip the model onto its other edge for best results and no support.**\r\n\r\nI might consider making these bases slightly shorter if I print another batch so that a fourth row can fit into a standard 6" storage bin.\r\n\r\nI may also add a small bump to the inside of the legs that mates with the top when stacked, ensuring they stay together better in a cupboard.