Aerovox Capacitors — Remaining Stock & Equivalent Replacements
Aerovox filed for bankruptcy in 2018. Specap has remaining Aerovox stock and provides cross-reference matching to CDE, KEMET, and other compatible replacements for film, motor-run, and power factor correction capacitors.
Aerovox Film & Motor Capacitors
Access to remaining Aerovox film, motor-run, and motor-start capacitor inventory through approved sourcing channels.
Power Factor Correction
Sourcing support for Aerovox PFC capacitors and compatible replacements for industrial power quality applications.
Cross-Reference Database
Spec-based matching from Aerovox part numbers to current CDE, KEMET, and other manufacturer equivalents.
Legacy Part Sourcing
Specialized procurement for discontinued Aerovox components needed for maintenance and equipment sustainment.
The History of Aerovox Corporation
Aerovox Corporation was founded in 1922 in Brooklyn, New York, and later relocated to New Bedford, Massachusetts. For nearly a century, Aerovox was a leading American manufacturer of film capacitors, motor-run capacitors, power factor correction (PFC) capacitors, and AC filter capacitors used across industrial, HVAC, and utility applications.
Aerovox capacitors were known for their rugged construction and long service life in demanding environments. Their motor-run capacitors became an industry standard in HVAC systems, compressors, and industrial motors. The company also manufactured high-voltage film capacitors for power utilities and power electronics applications.
In 2018, Aerovox filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after facing increased competition from overseas manufacturers. While the brand effectively ceased operations, the demand for Aerovox replacement capacitors remains significant — particularly in legacy HVAC systems, industrial motor applications, and utility power factor correction installations that were originally designed around Aerovox specifications.
Popular Aerovox Capacitor Series
| Series | Type | Common Applications | Modern Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Z50 / Z73 Series | Motor-Run Film | HVAC compressors, fan motors, pumps | CDEDERA / KEMET C44P series |
| Z62 Series | Motor-Start Electrolytic | Single-phase motor starting circuits | CDE MSR / KEMET 006-series |
| Z24 / Z25 Series | Power Factor Correction | Industrial power quality, utility substations | ABB CLMD / Eaton Cooper Power |
| V Series | AC Oil-Filled Film | Industrial lighting ballasts, power supplies | CDE 942C / Vishay MKP series |
| 2779 Series | High-Voltage Film | Pulse discharge, test equipment, laser power | CDE 940C / General Atomics |
Industries That Rely on Aerovox Replacements
- HVAC & refrigeration — Millions of HVAC systems installed before 2018 use Aerovox motor-run capacitors. When these fail, a compatible replacement with matching capacitance, voltage rating, and mounting style is required.
- Industrial motor systems — Legacy industrial equipment with Aerovox motor capacitors needs form-fit-function replacements to maintain original performance specifications.
- Power utilities — Aerovox was a major supplier of power factor correction capacitor banks to utilities. Replacement programs for aging PFC installations often require Aerovox cross-reference data.
- Lighting & ballast systems — Older HID lighting and magnetic ballast installations used Aerovox oil-filled film capacitors that need periodic replacement.
Why Source Aerovox Replacements from Specap?
With over 40 years of experience sourcing obsolete and hard-to-find capacitors, Specap can help you find the right Aerovox replacement:
- Access to remaining NOS Aerovox inventory through verified surplus channels
- Expert cross-reference matching to CDE, KEMET, ABB, and other current manufacturers
- Parameter verification — capacitance, voltage, ESR, temperature rating, and physical fit
- 100% electrical testing before shipment
- Volume sourcing for fleet-wide HVAC and industrial maintenance programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Aerovox capacitors still available?
Aerovox filed for bankruptcy in 2018, and new production has ceased. Specap maintains access to remaining Aerovox inventory and provides cross-reference support to CDE, KEMET, and other compatible replacements.
What happened to Aerovox?
Aerovox Corp. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018 after decades of manufacturing film and power capacitors. Their product lines have been largely absorbed by competitors including CDE and KEMET.
What capacitors replace Aerovox?
CDE (Cornell Dubilier) and KEMET are the most common replacements for Aerovox film and power factor correction capacitors. Specap can cross-reference your Aerovox part numbers to current equivalents.
Can you source Aerovox motor-run capacitors?
Yes. We maintain access to remaining Aerovox motor-run capacitor stock and can provide equivalent replacements from CDE, KEMET, and other qualified manufacturers.
Related Sourcing Paths
Use these pages to find replacements, request quotes, and source legacy capacitors.