Tough high-voltage high-current connector system for hybrid-electric and commercial vehicles

TTI is now stocking the new Molex Imperium high-voltage high-current connector system in Europe. Optimised for the challenging conditions experienced in products such as hybrid-electric vehicles and commercial vehicles, the Imperium HVHC system's rugged integrated shield design is able to withstand high levels of shock and vibration. Imperium connectors are capable of safely handling up to 1000V and 250A per contact. Contacts in plug and receptacle are solid and robust, so reducing contact resistance for lower power loss. A closed-loop 360 degree shield design with grounding tabs offers effective EMI and RFI protection for in-vehicle communications. Imperium HVAC connectors meet IP69K against fluid ingress while in the mated condition. Two contact diameters are currently available - 8mm and 11mm - with further configurations currently in development by the manufacturer. The Imperium System features integrated MX150 High-Voltage Interlock Loop (HVIL) crimp terminals, which eliminate high voltage arcing during disconnects. The benefits of HVIL are twofold: - operator safety is assured and any requirement for an additional connector is eliminated (First Break Last Mate). Further safety features include protective insulated plug and receptacle contact caps that meet touch-proof industry safety requirements. Two additional features are beneficial to manufacturers: a compression face seal reduces enclosure machining costs (Imperium interconnects are compatible with cast and low-cost sheet metal enclosures) and a header face shield with redundant grounding tabs simplified the grounding process for device manufacturers. Applications include commercial vehicles, (inverters, high current batteries, electric motors and DC-DC converters), hybrid/electric vehicles (agricultural and construction), electric buses and defence ground vehicles, says the company.