How to select 48 V connectors for medium-voltage automotive architectures
the challenges in moving to 48 V are not trivial. Arcing is of particular concern. In 12 V systems, small arcs typically extinguish quickly when circuits are broken. However, at 48 V, arcs can persist longer, potentially causing severe damage to the terminals and housings. To mitigate this risk, terminals must be spaced adequately to meet creepage distance and clearance requirements as outlined in DIN EN 60664-1, which governs insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage systems. Creepage refers to the shortest path between two conductive points along an insulating surface, while clearance denotes the shortest air path between conductors. These specifications are crucial to ensure
Figure 1: Connectors from the MX150 Mid-Voltage Connector System share their form factors with the field-proven, low-voltage MX150 connectors. (Image source: Molex)
1) exemplifies these design principles. These connectors share their form factors with the field-proven, low-voltage MX150 connectors. By using the same package size and housing design as the 12 V connector system, the MX150 Mid-Voltage Connectors provide a straightforward upgrade to 48 V wiring architecture with minimal design engineering. The MX150 Mid-Voltage Connector System currently encompasses
Safety considerations for 48 V connectors
Although 12 V is a good starting point for mid-voltage connectors,
Table 1: Key specifications of the MX150 Mid-Voltage Connector System. (Table source: Molex, modified by Kenton Williston)
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
DETAILS
Single row: 4 Double row: 4, 6, 20
Circuit sizes
Voltage (max)
60 V
five different configurations, as detailed in Table 1. These
Current (max)
22.0 A
include the dual-row 33482 blade connectors and the corresponding dual-row 300361 receptacles, as well as the single-row 300363.
Contact resistance
8 mΩ
Industry compliances
USCAR-2, USCAR-21, GMW3191
Operating temperatures
-40°C to +125°C
Sealing
IP67 and USCAR-2 Sealing Class 2
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