When you think about the dynamics of military vehicles, it only makes sense that military-style connectors meet rigorous standards. While they meet power demands, military-style connectors must also be built to withstand contact with chemicals and engine contaminants as well as extreme temperatures. These connectors are engineered for harsh environments, providing resistance to moisture, dirt, and dust to ensure reliable performance even in the most demanding conditions.
The inherently robust and durable design of military-style connectors translates well to industrial applications. These are heavy-duty connectors suitable for the toughest conditions and challenging environments. For instance, some transit systems leverage NATO connectors to provide dependable power connections in the face of harsh operational conditions.
Transit systems are a prime example of how industrial power connectors that meet military-style requirements can support a more effective infrastructure with a longer lifespan. The importance of safe and reliable power cannot be overstated, and the reliability of these connectors is crucial in maintaining operational safety. At the same time, there’s the benefit of a military-style connector’s compact design, with different sizes available to fit various installation requirements. They can fit into tight spaces, making optimal, efficient use of a system’s footprint.
Are There Opportunities for Customization?
With military-standard (MS) connectors, the design is set in stone. If you change one dimension of an MS connector or modify its design in any way, the connector loses its MS designation.
Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) connectors that meet military-style standards offer flexibility for customization. In addition to this flexibility, COTS connectors are available in various configurations and offer a range of features to accommodate diverse application needs. Consider the case of an industrial application where a cable assembly connector must fit a new equipment size requirement to meet a customer’s design request. The COTS connector can be modified to support the new product launch, with the ability to accommodate various configurations and adapt to future requirements—all while still meeting the military’s rigorous standards. This customization would not be possible with an MS connector.
What About the Materials That Are Used?
For many years, the military has been focused on the robustness of connector designs. As you get into the industrial space, where RoHS compliance has become the standard, you’re operating under more constraints, and the importance of quality materials and adherence to industry standards becomes paramount.
Because COTS connectors are designed for use across industries, they often come in RoHS-compliant finishes. Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, this step promotes environmental sustainability and safety in the workplace.
An Additional Benefit of COTS Connectors
We’ve already covered how the use of COTS connectors for industrial applications offers durability, flexibility and sustainability. But it’s also worth noting their availability and price relative to MS connectors.
MS connectors have to be manufactured in specific facilities at certain times. That means production runs will be smaller. So while COTS connectors address all environmental standards with the option for modification, they offer the benefit of larger production runs and location flexibility. This reduces costs and accelerates lead times.
In the market for industrial power connectors that meet military-style standards? Amerline’s AEC connector series is interchangeable and intermateable with MS connectors and can be customized to suit your specific needs. Tell us about your project, and we’ll provide you with a quote.
