How long can a electrolytic capacitor last un-used?

Do electrolytic capacitors have a shelf life? I’ve an opportunity to buy an mono amplifier with 20 year old capacitors that have under 700 hours total use. The amps sound perfect without any issues. VTL Siegfried MK 1.

hiendmmoe10-24-2021 4:52pm

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tom6897 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,484 posts 10-25-2021 at 02:00am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Give VTL a call and see what they have to say. With the SN they may be able to provide manufacturing date.
abraxalito Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 93 posts 10-25-2021 at 02:22am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Electrolyte evaporation doesn't depend on whether a cap is charged or not, mostly depends on temperature. After 20 years you're probably due for a re-capping.
grannyring Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,512 posts 10-25-2021 at 01:33pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Agreed. They still dry out and will need replacing. Does it need it now? Perhaps not, but it will in next couple of years. If she is quiet with no buzzing or humming that is good.
rodman99999 Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 6,160 posts 10-25-2021 at 02:42pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete An interesting study, on just that topic (shelf life), here: https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3104/m2/1/high_res_d/thesis.pdf

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