David Luu, Product Marketing Analyst at Bulgin, discusses the benefits and some potential applications of the latest high power waterproof connectors.
Ensuring uninterrupted connectivity in the harshest environments is quite a challenge, requiring durable, environmentally-sealed connectors capable of withstanding even the most severe conditions. To meet this demand, Bulgin developed the Buccaneer® range of dust and waterproof connectors for power and data. This article discusses the most recent addition to the Buccaneer range, the 7000 Series of compact, environmentally-sealed 25A, 600V connectors for higher power applications.
The need for safe and secure connectivity
Water and dustproofing are important considerations when using electrical equipment. Besides the obvious hazard associated with water, salt water and dust – particularly cement dust – can quickly erode contacts, rendering an unprotected connector useless. Traditional screw coupling waterproof connectors, while very effective, take time to couple. It can also be difficult to determine how tight the connections need to be to ensure they seal effectively, especially for ‘blind’ or awkward mating situations where access is restricted.
Connectors play an essential role in an incredibly diverse range of applications, and connectors offering a straightforward, ‘fit and forget’ seal – without the need for technical expertise or specialist tools – are essential to reduce the potential of operator errors. One potential application for this type of connector is the rapidly growing renewable energy industry. Solar inverters are connected to solar panels via single pole connectors, and high power output connectors are required to carry the mains voltage back to the grid. Robustness is also vital for industrial automation purposes – where constant power distribution and process control are essential – and connectors must withstand considerable stress to avoid unplanned downtime. For many applications, waterproof connectors are the key consideration. For example, temporary lighting and sound systems at concert venues rely on durable, waterproof connectors capable of accommodating large cables to provide a secure, stable power supply. Marine applications – typically winches and lighting equipment – also rely on waterproof and salt resistant connectors.
A rugged and versatile solution
Designed to withstand the harshest conditions, the durable Buccaneer 7000 Series connectors have a single piece body and meet IP66, IP68 and IP69K standards. Featuring a twist locking system and pin carriers designed to preventing damage during coupling, the Buccaneer 7000 Series enables a water and dustproof seal to be made quickly and easily without the need for technical expertise, and reducing the potential for operator error.
For maximum flexibility, the Buccaneer 7000 Series offers a choice of interchangeable metal and plastic body mouldings, helping to ensure the right solution for any given application while reducing the overall cost as much as possible. Light weight, versatile and cost-effective plastic couplings are less prone to the risk of moisture accumulating within the connector and more resistant to attack by salt water, as well as being UV-stable, making them ideal for long-term use in outdoor applications. In addition, these UL94 V-0 rated self-extinguishing connectors are halogen-free, ensuring that, in the event of fire, no toxic gases are emitted. Where a more robust and rugged material or electromagnetic compatibility are required, metal connectors are more suitable, providing continuation of the cable screen from the cable through to the mating connector and completing the Faraday cage.
Conclusions
In any industry, reliability is a crucial consideration, since failure of a single connection may result in a lengthy period of downtime and significant revenue losses while the fault is diagnosed. The larger diameter, higher power Buccaneer 7000 Series connectors enable a water and dustproof seal to be made quickly and easily, allowing rapid installation, replacement and maintenance of equipment without the need for specialist tools or expertise. With rigorous IP66, IP68 and IP69K rated ingress protection, the connectors are suitable for almost any application. This provides customers with total confidence in the quality and reliability of their chosen products, which have been developed using tried and trusted design techniques and knowledge acquired over many years to guarantee trouble free, ‘fit and forget’ connectivity in the harshest of environments.
For more information about Bulgin products, please contact:
Elektron Technology, Woodland Road, Torquay, Devon, UK TQ2 7AY
Tel: +44 (0)1803 407700
