Multi-contact, high-current connectors for harsh operating conditions

Harwin has significantly raised the power levels that its product portfolio can support with the introduction of the Kona series. These 8.5 mm pitch connectors’ contacts are capable of delivering 60A of current. This means that applications such as battery charging can be addressed without having to split the current across multiple contacts. Among the key applications targeted are electric vehicle battery monitoring/management, power control systems, robotics drives, servo controls, UAVs and satellites.

Kona contacts are arranged in a single row, with 2, 3 and 4 contact versions available. The current carrying capacity is such that very little PCB space is used as less contacts are needed to deliver the current. The mating pair consists of a male vertical through-board connector with board mount fixings, plus a female cable connector which will accommodate 8 AWG gauge cables.

Harwin’s innovative mate-before-lock mechanism prevents any damage occurring during the locking process ensuring the mating elements are fully aligned first. Thanks to shrouding on each contact and a fully polarized construction, mis-mating is not a possibility. Kona connectors have a 250 mating cycle lifespan. Use of stainless steel thumbscrews, which are fitted to the female connector element, means fixing is simple. No tools are required which maximises user convenience. The inclusion of a contact indicator makes certain that the connector elements are correctly oriented.

With a maximum voltage rating of 3 kV, and a working temperature ranging from –65° to 150°C, Kona connectors are suitable for deployment in the most difficult of applications environments. These components can handle vibrational forces of 20 G for a period of 12 hours. The 6-finger Beryllium Copper contacts prevent any interruption in connectivity.

“Following the market traction witnessed by our high-power Datamate Mix-Tek connectors, further opportunities have started to appear. Customers have approached us in need of even more current per contact,” said Harwin’s Ryan Smart, NPI Product Manager. “The parameters that the Kona series deliver will open up new potential markets for us, and Kona is our highest performing connector to date.”