Power connectors optimized for harsh environment applications

CDM Electronics now stocks Binder-USA's newly designed member of the HEC (Harsh Environment Connector) family. Engineered to deliver uncompromised performance in demanding environmental conditions, the new 12-pin HEC circular connectors offer power interconnect solutions to a variety of commercial, industrial, agricultural, defence and aerospace applications. The lightweight-plastic cable connectors are UL and VDE Certified, and IP68- and IP69K-rated to ensure protection against dust, submersion, and close-range high-pressure, high-temperature spray downs. The parts' configuration features crimp contacts to facilitate a shock and vibration resistant termination, whereas their 3-point bayonet locking mechanism enables fast and easy connections to minimize installation and service time and ensures accurate mating depth. HEC plugs and jacks are designed for harsh environment applications in which excellent resistance to climatic influences such as UV exposure, industrial liquids and chemical substances are involved. They are particularly suitable for diverse weight-restricted outdoor and indoor power applications including industrial automation and robotics, agriculture, aerospace, defence communications infrastructure and weapons control. The connectors are also appropriate for medical, diagnostic and research equipment, and alternative energy signal and control equipment. Rated for 1000 mating cycles, the devices' plastic housing is UL94-V-0 rated for flammability resistance. Contacts accept a wire size range of 26 to 18 AWG. Male and female contacts are supplied on reels for high volume, low cost, automatic machine terminations, or in loose piece form (bagged) for low volume, prototype or maintenance and repair. Parts are offered in easy-grip cable mount versions for effortless connector tightening/loosening, and in bulkhead designs. The connectors are available in prototype and production quantities, says the company.