Application standards and selection techniques for high current connectors
Choosing the appropriate power connector for the application is a key interconnect selection step in device design. Appropriate Anderson connectors increase the reliability of interconnected devices.
Suitable power connector standards for application:
1. Rated current
Rated current is the most important criterion when selecting power connectors. It is expressed in amperes per circuit and is a standard for measuring the amount of current that can be passed through paired terminals at an ambient temperature of 72 ° C; F（22°） The temperature rise should not exceed 85 degrees Celsius; F（30° C） C）。 Then, due to the heat (temperature rise) from adjacent terminals, the current level decreases or the number of circuits in the given housing is adjusted.
2. Connector size or circuit density
With the trend of device size reduction, the size of high current connectors has become increasingly important in the selection process of wire connectors. Circuit density is a relative measure of the number of circuits that a power connector can accommodate per square inch. It is relative, and using this measure, the space requirements or dimensions of one connector series can be objectively determined compared to another connector series.
3. Wire size
When choosing the appropriate power connector, wire size is an important criterion, especially in applications where the required current rating is close to the maximum rating of the selected connector series, and where the mechanical strength of the wire is required. In both cases, a heavier wire gauge should be chosen.
4. Rated working voltage
The rated value of Anderson power connectors is within the 600V range, such as the SG50A Anderson connector from Saint Andrew. The rated voltage value is 600V. Contact material: copper (silver plated), terminal holding force: 250N Min.
The specifications and types of Anderson connector terminals can be said to be diverse. When selecting suitable Anderson connector terminals for application devices, there are also many key standards that need to be considered,
Anderson connector terminal
1. Remember the performance requirements for Anderson connector terminals
When selecting Anderson connector terminals, it is important to clarify the requirements. For example, how many signals are there in total? What are the currents, frequencies, and voltages they carry? Whether the connector signal requirements are analog, digital, or composite. Because signal combinations can affect connector types, pin arrangements, and wiring. For example, high-frequency signals may require coaxial connections, while low-level analog signals may need to be shielded.
In addition, some signal combinations cannot be included in the same connector, and if high-voltage pins are involved, creepage distance and gap distance may need to be considered. If there is a high current path, multiple pins and larger wires may be required, and customized solutions may also be needed based on unique cases and design requirements.
2. Consider the current rating and operating voltage of the Anderson connector terminals required
The current rating is the most important criterion for selecting terminal connectors. It is a measure of the amount of current that can flow through the mating terminals, ideally expressed in amperes per circuit. The current should be adjusted or reduced based on the temperature rise of adjacent terminals and the number of circuits in the given housing.
3. Check the space limitations of Anderson connector terminals
The size and weight of Anderson connector terminals decrease as available space decreases. However, their ability to withstand increased mating and non mating frequencies has greatly increased, so depending on the requirements of your project and its design, it may be necessary to look for more options in Anderson connector terminals.
4. Verify the operating temperature range of Anderson connector terminals
Most electrical connectors are subject to extreme conditions such as vibration and impact, and cables and Anderson connector terminals designed specifically for extreme conditions and hazardous environments have special functions of resistance to vibration and impact, as well as withstanding extreme temperatures. Therefore, suitable Anderson connector terminals can be selected based on the location of the Anderson connector terminals, the vicinity of the heat source, the operating temperature, and the frequency of mating and undoing.
5. Confirm the reliability level of Anderson connector terminals
Reliability is another important factor to consider when purchasing Anderson connector terminals. However, reliability is a complex concept that depends on several factors. Accurate numbers are difficult to determine, but some connectors have specifications for mean time to failure. This can serve as a guide for selecting the appropriate connector for any application.
6. Ensure that Anderson connectors have good environmental sealing properties
Some environments require prevention of the intrusion of flammable or combustible gases, vapors, dust, or liquids. Anderson connectors have environmental sealing performance, which can effectively prevent accidental splashing. Once the required security level is understood, the IP level number in the IP code system can be verified and it can be determined whether the correct Anderson connector terminal has been selected.
7. Anderson connector terminal material and electroplating factors
Terminal materials and electroplating are usually the last factors to consider, but due to the fact that most Anderson connectors are made of PP plastic, they have a high flammability rating with flame continuity. The available standard options include tin, lead, and selected gold, suitable for most applications. The substrate is usually made of phosphor bronze or brass because they have excellent strength and current carrying capacity even when exposed to high ambient temperatures for a long time.
8. Calculation and pricing of Anderson connector terminals
The price of connectors is usually calculated based on the total cost including sockets and plugs, the cost of Anderson connector terminals, and the labor cost of connecting wires to the terminals and inserting them into the housing. So the most important criteria will determine the type and size of Anderson connectors. Other factors to consider here include operating voltage, wire size, configuration, meshing force, and circuit size.
