What impact does the environment have on connector performance?

Connectors will face various environments during application. The technical performance of the same type of connector will vary depending on the application environment. Therefore, when we evaluate the performance of a connector, it is also an important indicator to see how much environmental conditions it can withstand.

1. High temperature resistance

The maximum operating temperature of the connector (HRS connector) is 200℃ (except for a few high-temperature special connectors), and the minimum operating temperature is -65℃. Since the current generates heat at the contact point, especially when the connector is working, causing the temperature to rise, it is generally believed that the operating temperature should be equal to the sum of the ambient temperature and the contact point temperature. In some specifications, the maximum allowable temperature rise of the connector under rated operating current is clearly specified.

75A High Power Board Anderson Connector

2. Moisture-proof

The insulation performance of the connector (HRS connector) is easily affected by moisture intrusion, causing corrosion of metal parts. The constant humidity and heat test conditions are relative humidity of 90% and 95% (up to 98% according to product specifications), temperature +40±20oc, and test time of at least 96 hours according to product specifications. The heat and humidity alternating test is more stringent.

Factory Direct Sale 3pin 50A 600v Battery Anderson Connector

3. Resistant to salt spray

When a connector works in an environment containing moisture and salt, the surface treatment layer of its metal structural parts and contacts may produce galvanic corrosion, affecting the physical and electrical performance of the connector. To evaluate the resistance of electrical connectors, a salt spray test was performed. The connector is suspended in a temperature-controlled test chamber, and compressed air is used to spray sodium chloride solution with a specified concentration to form a salt spray atmosphere. According to the product instructions, the exposure time is at least 48 hours.

50A Green 2 Pole Forklift Anderson Connector Plug Socket Forklift Battery Cable

4. Resistant to vibration and impact

Anti-vibration and impact resistance are important properties of electrical connectors, which are particularly important in special application environments such as aviation, aerospace, railways, and highways. They are important indicators for testing the mechanical structural robustness and electrical contact reliability of electrical connectors. Relevant test methods are clearly defined. The impact test should specify the peak acceleration, duration, impact pulse waveform and electrical continuous interruption time.