For maximum life, capacitors usually need to be able to handle the maximum amount of reversal that a system will experience. An AC circuit will experience 100% voltage reversal, while under-damped DC circuits will experience less than 100%. Reversal creates excess electric fields in the dielectric, causes excess heating of both the dielectric and the conductors, and can dramatically shorten the life expectancy of the capacitor. <answer>Reversal ratings</answer> will often affect the design considerations for the capacitor, from the choice of dielectric materials and voltage ratings to the types of internal connections used.
When designing a capacitor, what is an important rating to consider?
Reversal ratings