High-power connectors for harsh-environment vehicle applications

Amphenol's new Rhino 38999 high-power connectors are now available from Astute Electronics. Capable of carrying up to 1000A, these rugged interconnects combine the benefits of field-proven MIL-DTL-38999 Series III circular connectors with low resistance hyperbolic RADSOK(r) power contacts. They are ideal for high power and voltage applications in harsh environments. Rhino 38999 connectors offer IP68 sealing against water and dust ingress and have an anti-decoupling ratchet mechanism that ensures reliability in the field. They also feature superior EMC performance even under conditions of high vibration. A hyperbolic contact design gives high contact endurance and low contact resistance. The connectors offer six standard key options to prevent mis-mating, with keyway engagement prior to contact connection and IP2X finger protection to provide a high degree of safety to the contacts. Various contact termination styles are available, suitable for straight or right angle bus bar, lug or crimp termination. There is also a low profile right-angle backshell variant available for use in space-constrained applications. Physical characteristics include RoHS compliant black Zinc nickel plating offering 500hrs salt spray endurance as standard, with marine aluminium bronze and stainless steel for high corrosion environments available as an alternative. Other traditional plating finishes including cadmium, zinc cobalt and electroless nickel are also available, says the company.