What constitutes a heavy-duty connector and where are they used for industrial connectivity
as well as joining of multiple component and cable sections. Typically, heavy-duty variations of these connectors include one or more ruggedizing features. Heavy-duty cable connectors can feature cable-entry protection in the form of a universal cable gland, cable clamp, or seal and anti-twist device. No matter the mechanical form, these secure the cable and prevent it from pulling out of terminals. Cable- entry protection can also prevent cable wear just as standalone cable glands do. Note that lamellar inserts (glands with multiple fingers) are common on moderately ruggedized connectors, though the inserts require regular retightening to ensure ingress protection. Glands with a continuous seal that clamps around the cable are often a more reliable choice for heavy-duty applications. The hood on some heavy-duty cable connectors encloses the electrical conductors of the plug while providing insulation and ingress protection — as well as some locking or latching sleeve or lever to keep the connector halves together. On many heavy-duty cable connectors, the male insert includes male pins as well as screws or crimp terminals where the conducting wire cores contact
the pins. In such connectors, the female insert includes complementary sockets as well as receptacles or crimp terminals where the conducting wire cores contact the sockets.
The ruggedized housings of heavy- duty cable connectors are perhaps their most conspicuous feature — often including insulation and ingress protection. Accessories may include additional protective covers and guides for pin codes.
Figure 1: Han®-series connectors include several complementary features to withstand fairly brutal environmental conditions. (Image source: Harting)
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