For the design of your car or mobile equipment, selecting the appropriate electrical connector is crucial. An effective way to modularize, use less space, or improve manufacturability and field maintenance can be found with the right wire connectors. We will go over important factors to take into account when choosing electrical interconnect components in this article.
Current Score
A mated terminal’s current rating (expressed in amps) is a measurement of the maximum amount of current that can flow through it. Make sure the connector’s current rating corresponds to the capacity of the individual terminals being connected for carrying current.
Circuit density and Connector Size
The trend to reduce equipment footprint without sacrificing current capacity is increasingly driving changes in electrical connector size. Remember how much room your electrical connectors and terminals will require. In trucks, cars, and other mobile equipment, connections are frequently made in constrained-space small compartments.
Engaging Power
The effort needed to mate, connect, or engage the two populated electrical connector halves is referred to as engagement force. Total engagement forces for some connector families in high circuit count applications can reach 50 pounds or more, which may be too much for some assembly workers or in situations where the electrical connectors are hard to access. In contrast, a high engagement force may be preferred in heavy-duty applications so that the connection can withstand frequent jostling and vibrations in the field.
Cable Size
When selecting electrical connectors, wire size is crucial, particularly when the required current rating is close to the maximum for the selected connector family or when mechanical strength in the wire is required. A heavier wire gauge ought to be used in both situations. The majority of electrical connectors can accept automotive wire gauges between 16 and 22 AWG.
Running Voltage
While AC applications can range from 600 to 1000 volts, most automotive DC applications fall within the 12 to 48 volt range. Usually, larger connectors are needed for higher-voltage applications in order to contain the heat and voltage that are produced during use.
Environmental Elements
When selecting an electrical terminal or connector, take into account the setting in which the machine or vehicle will be used or stored. You should select a sealed connector system if the environment is prone to extremely high or low temperatures, or excessive moisture and debris, such as construction or marine equipment.
Strain Reduction
Many heavy-duty connectors have extended housing that acts as built-in strain relief. By keeping wires enclosed and preventing them from bending where they connect to the terminals, strain relief adds an additional layer of security to your connector system.
Conclusion
Your electrical system must be connected properly in order to function properly. You will be able to select a connector that will work well for you for many years if you take the time to consider the factors covered in this article. Look to a distributor with a large selection of terminals and connectors to find a part that meets your needs.