Space Grade Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the KEMET Space Grade Series?
Answer: The Space Grade Series of capacitors is designed for use by military/aerospace customers in high-reliability space applications. This series meets the requirements of MIL-PRF-55365 as well as MIL-STD-1580. The capacitors in this series incorporate an intensive testing and screening protocol that can be customized to meet the customer’s specific needs.

The part number is designed to allow for designation of Weibull grading (level C – 0.01%/k hours), surge current level (10 cycles at 25 C, 10 cycles -55 C and +85 C before/after Weibull grading), performance testing level (catalog details available options), ESR (low and standard), and termination finish. Fused versions are available for built-in circuit protection, and multiple anode designs are available for very low ESR values.

Question: Are qualification packages available?
Answer: Yes, contact your local KEMET Sales rep for information.

Question: What leadframe materials are available with the Space Grade Series?
Answer: Depending on part type ordered, the available termination finishes are: tin/lead (order with an “H” suffix), 100% tin (order with a “T” suffix), gold plated (order with a “G” suffix), solder fused (order with a “K” suffix), or hot solder dipped (order with a “C” suffix). Consult our catalog for options.

Question: Is the physical appearance of these devices different?
Answer: The polarity stripe is marked with a symbol that is specific to the Space Grade Series.

Question: What packaging options are available?
Answer: This product is available in tape and reel packaging. You can order this product in 7” reels.

Question: What is the lead time for this series?
Answer: Current lead time is from twelve to fourteen weeks

Question: What testing is performed on the series?
Answer: A designator in the part number determines the level of testing performed on each part. Testing is divided into three options (A, B, and C) is detailed below:

Test Description	Test Method	Option A	Option B	Option C
100% Thermal Shock (unmounted)	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
100% Voltage Aging (Weibull C or better)	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
Surge current (option B)	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
Surge current (option C)	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
100% Electrical Verification	KEMET Standard	X	X	X
100% Visual/Mechanical	KEMET Standard	X	X	X
Serialization (collection of attributes/variable data by serial number)	KEMET Standard			X
Solderability	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
Temperature stability	MIL-PRF-55365	X	X	X
DPA Analysis	MIL-STD-1580	X	X	X
100% X-ray	MIL-PRF-55365	X
100% 2 plane x-ray	KEMET X-ray standard *		X	X
Expanded Physical Dimension Verification	KEMET Standard	X	X	X
Mil-maintenance (quarterly)	MIL-PRF-55365	X
Group B Testing (22 pcs)	See Note		X	X
Group C Testing (each lot)	MIL-PRF-55365		X	X
Data Pack (group A and C summaries,			X
Data Pack (group A and C summaries, 2 plane x-ray jpeg photos , DPA report)	MIL-PRF-1580 and KEMET X-ray Standard		X
Source inspection (if required)	Per Customer Requirement		X	X
Data Pack (group A and C summaries, 2 plane x-ray jpeg photos, DPA report, attributes/variables data for CAP/DF/DCL/ESR, P.O./QASR/ (ATS if needed)	MIL-PRF-1580, KEMET Standard, KEMET X-ray Standard			X

X = Included in test option
*KEMET X-ray Standard = 2 plane x-ray (Top and Side view), molded case wall thickness minimum 0.005" all sides, negative/positive termination attachment criteria per MIL-STD-1580

Group "B" testing = 22pc sample Surge Current, 10,000 cycles, 85°C, 40% Vr