New high-current power connector simplifies installation and maintenance

Hirose has launched a new high-current power supply connector with a snap-lock mechanism that ensures a safe and secure connection. Available in panel mount and DIN rail versions, the snap-lock EM35M Series power connector reduces wiring procedures and eliminates screw loosening commonly found in buss bar applications. Designed for manufacturing power control boxes, generators, fuel batteries, and more, the series power connector supports up to 50A with an AWG No.8 cable. The four-position (three-phase power source plus ground) connector offers flexible and customizable keying options that prevent mis-mating of multiple connectors. The series power connector uses up to two keys on the plug and up to three keys on the receptacle for a total of ten keying combinations. As a safety measure, the connector's mating sequence design ensures the ground contact is connected first when mating, and last when unmating, to provide a proper ground before power is applied. In addition, the female contacts have a protective cover that reduces exposure and potential damage during cable assembly and delivery. Crimp termination via a standard JIS tool provides quick and easy installation and maintenance. "The EM35M Series reduces installation time and increases cost savings because it requires much less wiring and eliminates screw tightening. In addition, the crimp termination does not require a special crimp termination tool, saving substantial time compared to solder termination," said Rick van Weezel, vice-president of sales and marketing for Hirose Electric USA. The connector is TÜV and UL certified. The power connector has a rated voltage of 500VAC or 500VDC, contact resistance of 1 milliohm maximum, insulation resistance of 5000 Megaohm minimum, and an operating temperature of -40C to +125C.