Flux Capacitor, Huh? How Do Engineers Find the Right Capacitor? (No Time Travel Needed)

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Flux Capacitor, Huh? How Do Engineers Find the Right Capacitor? (No Time Travel Needed) Summit Elecctronics August 13, 2025

Flux Capacitor, Huh? How Do Engineers Find the Right Capacitor? (No Time Travel Needed)

Hard to find, old, and obsolete electrolytic capacitors of different values next to a logo for Summit Electronics

img-summ1In Back to the Future, the Flux Capacitor was the ultimate time-travel device. In the real world, capacitors aren’t sending DeLoreans to 1955, but they are powering the present, from utility grids to automation lines, and keeping critical systems online.

At Summit Electronics, we work with engineers, buyers, and procurement managers across multiple industries. We help you find the right capacitor for any application, whether it’s brand new, legacy, or part of Obsolete Electronics.

Q&A: Capacitors in the Real World

Q: Why is finding the right capacitor so important?

A: The right capacitor ensures stable performance, prevents downtime, and protects valuable equipment.

Q: Can Summit Electronics source parts no longer made by manufacturers?

A: Yes. We specialize in hard-to-find and obsolete electronics.

Q: How fast can you deliver parts?

A: Our network allows us to supply many components in days, not weeks.
Right Capacitor

Find the Right Capacitor

A capacitor stores and releases energy when needed. It is essential for:

  • Voltage smoothing in sensitive electronics
  • Signal filtering in communication systems
  • Power factor correction for energy efficiency
  • Protecting equipment from surges and interruptions

The wrong choice can lead to poor performance or costly downtime. Selecting the right type is a skill every engineer and procurement pro needs, and this is where Summit Electronics can help.

Real-World Sourcing Scenarios

Here are examples of how we’ve supplied the perfect capacitor:

Power Generation – A procurement manager needed a 5kV high-voltage capacitor to maintain a substation’s power factor correction system. The original was obsolete electronics, and we sourced the exact replacement to keep the grid online.

Automation – An engineer required a low ESR electrolytic capacitor for a robotic control board retrofit. We delivered quickly to reduce production downtime.

Oil & Gas – A buyer needed a ruggedized capacitor for offshore drilling equipment, able to withstand extreme vibration and temperature swings. We found a proven, field-tested option.

Contract Manufacturing – A manufacturing partner needed bulk film capacitors for transportation electronics. We secured competitive pricing and consistent supply. 

Industries That Rely on Capacitors

Capacitors are essential across multiple sectors, keeping operations stable and equipment performing at its best. Key industries include:
  • Power & Utility Companies – Maintaining grid stability and efficiency
  • Automation – Supporting robotics and production lines with reliable power control
  • Oil & Gas – Handling extreme environments in drilling, processing, and offshore operations
  • Railroad and Transit – Powering train control systems, signal equipment, and onboard electronics
  • Foundry and Metal Casting – Controlling high-temperature production systems and automated casting lines
  • Contract Manufacturers – Building dependable products with consistent, repeatable quality
Companies like Vexos, Q-Free, and EMP-Corp rely on our capacitors for performance, safety, and reliability in demanding applications.

From Obsolete to State-of-the-Art

Summit Electronics specializes in:

  • Locating obsolete electronics no longer made by manufacturers
  • Supplying both bulk and single units
  • Fast turnaround to prevent downtime
Our supplier network and technical knowledge allow us to find the exact part you need, even when it seems impossible.

The Real Future is Powered by Capacitors

Flying cars may be fiction, but capacitors are already enabling renewable energy, smart manufacturing, and advanced transportation. If the real Flux Capacitor ever exists, Summit Electronics will know exactly where to get the parts.

Need help finding the Right Capacitor?

Start your search here → Summit Electronics Capacitors

We will keep your systems powered and productive. Contact us today or request a quote. Click here or give us a call toll-free at (800) 226-6960.