Connectors Deliver Cost Savings white paper

CONNECTOR SELECTION MADE EASY

better approach. Because they have a plug-and-play startup process, there is no need to rewire a machine in the field. That means no costly or time-consuming troubleshooting or parts replacement. For large, complex machines, the process can be reduced from weeks to days. • Reliable conections for harsh conditions. Machine often have to operate in corrosive, electrically noisy, or mechanically challenging environments. For example, food and beverage equipment must undergo frequent washdowns, while offshore installations such as wind farms can expose connections to salt sprays. Both environments can generate corrosion. Industrial environments can also present dirt, abrasion, and electrical noise that may cause expensive downtime. To ensure reliable operation in harsh environments, connectors can be specially engineered and made from materials designed to perform in challenging conditions while protecting electrical connections inside the connector. ACHIEVE CONTINUOUS SAVINGS FROM MACHINE CONSTRUCTION THROUGH TO OPERATIONS LAPP’s EPIC ® ULTRA series of industrial connectors are built for tough conditions. Their housings feature nickel-plated zinc hoods and bases with stainless-steel hardware. Together, these corrosion-resistant materials allow the housing to withstand conditions that may compromise traditional painted aluminum houses. EPIC ULTRA HB housings also include a built-in cable gland that enhances sealing and strain relief while also eliminating a possible leakage path. In addition, the lip seal between the top and bottom housing components has been recessed so it is totally enclosed by the housing when mated and latched. This design feature protects it from mechanical damage and exposure to UV radiation when installed outdoors.

With all the connector types to choose from, it can be difficult to find the right connector for your installation. You can make connector selection less stressful by considering these key factors: • Number of contacts. The number of contacts in the connector should match or exceed the number in the cable. Remember to consider the ground to avoid a miscount. Cable connector counts typically include ground while connectors do not. • Wire gauge (AWG). The cable’s wire gauge must be within the allowed range of the connector contacts. In general, screw contacts will accommodate a broader range of wire gauges than comparable crimped contacts. • Cable outside diameter (OD). If the OD of the cable is too small relative to the housing, you could end up with a poor seal and suffer performance issues. If the cable OD is too large it will not fit inside the housing easily or at all, driving up your installation cost. • Maximum voltage and current. Double check to make sure your application’s voltage and current are within the connector’s rated capacity. This specification detail is critical to safety. By defining these four factors as you begin your selection, you can determine whether your connector will function as a true extension of a cable. While they don’t capture the effects of difficult operating environments or unusual electrical requirements, they can help you quickly narrow down a broad field of connector products.

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