Industrial connectors Manufacturers online

Industrial connectors are specially developed plug connections that are used in industrial applications to transmit power, signals or data between machines, systems or devices.

Industrial connectors are characterized by their robustness and reliability. They are designed to withstand mechanical stress, extreme temperatures, moisture, dust and chemical influences. They are often modular and enable the combination of power, data and signal connections in a single connector.

Below you will find the functionality and types of industrial connectors, their use and their advantages:

How industrial connectors work:

Mechanical connection:

Industrial connectors consist of a plug (male part) and a socket (female part) that are securely connected. Locking systems (e.g. screw or snap locks) ensure a firm connection.

Electrical connection:

Inside the connectors are contact pins or socket contacts that transmit electrical signals or current between two components. High-quality contact materials ensure low contact corrosion and high conductivity.

Protection mechanisms:

Many industrial connectors are protected against dust, moisture and vibration (often by high IP protection classes such as IP67 or IP68).

Types of industrial connectors:

• Circular connectors: Cylindrical shape, often used in automation and sensor technology.
• Rectangular connectors: Usually modular, for the transmission of multiple signals and data in industrial applications.
• Heavy-duty connectors: For use in harsh and demanding environments, e.g. in heavy industry or plant engineering.
• Field connectors: Used directly on site in industrial systems, often modular and robust.
• M12, M8 connectors: Frequently used in sensor technology, automation and mechanical engineering for signal transmission.

Use of industrial connectors:

1. Automation technology:
Connecting sensors, actuators, controllers and robots in industrial production systems.

2. Power engineering:
Connections in power distribution systems, wind turbines and solar systems.

3. Mechanical engineering:
Power supply and signal transmission in machines and systems.

4. Transportation and rail transport:
Connecting components in trains, subways and other transportation systems.

5. Offshore and heavy industry:
In harsh environments such as oil rigs, chemical plants or construction applications.

Advantages of industrial connectors:

• Resistant to extreme environmental influences such as heat, cold, dust, moisture and vibrations.
• They offer a stable and secure connection even in critical applications and are designed for long operating times.
• Many industrial connectors have a modular design so that power, signal and data connections can be combined.
• Connectors enable quick and easy assembly and the replacement of components without complex wiring.
• Many industrial connectors have special locking mechanisms to prevent unintentional disconnection.

Industrial connectors are robust, durable and specially developed for use in demanding environments. They ensure reliable transmission of power, data and signals in various industries such as automation, energy technology and mechanical engineering. The advantages lie in their resistance to harsh conditions, their flexibility and modularity as well as their ease of installation and maintenance.

Below you will find an overview of the most important criteria that you should pay attention to when purchasing industrial connectors:

When purchasing industrial connectors, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the industrial environment and application to ensure a reliable, durable and secure connection.

• The connector must be able to carry the required current without overheating. Pay attention to the maximum current in amperes (A) that the connector can handle.
• check whether the connector is suitable for the voltage used in your application (direct or alternating current, high voltage, etc.).
• A low contact resistance ensures better conductivity and reduces power losses.
• Depending on the frequency of use, the connector should be designed for a high number of mating cycles without losing its functionality.
• In harsh industrial environments (e.g. with vibrations, shocks or mechanical loads), it is important that the connector is mechanically resistant.
• Look for suitable locking systems (e.g. screw, bayonet or quick-release fasteners) that guarantee a secure and firm connection and prevent accidental disconnection.
• The connector should meet the requirements of the environment. High IP protection (e.g. IP67 or IP68) is often required for damp, dusty or dirty environments.
• The connector should be designed for the temperature range in which it is used, whether in hot or extremely cold environments.
• If the connector is used in a corrosive environment (e.g. in the chemical industry or offshore), materials such as stainless steel or corrosion-protected coatings should be used.
• High-quality contact materials such as copper, gold-plated or silver-plated contacts ensure better conductivity and prevent corrosion.
• A coating can make the connector more resistant to corrosion and abrasion and improve electrical conductivity.
• The connector must fit into the available assembly. Depending on the application, compact or larger, robust connectors may be required.
• In complex systems, it may make sense to use modular connectors that combine different functions (power, data, signals) in one housing.
• If the connector is used to transmit data, it should be suitable for the required data rate (e.g. for Ethernet, USB, CAN bus).
• For environments with electromagnetic interference (EMI), shielded connectors are necessary to prevent signal interference.
• The connector should comply with the relevant international standards and certifications, e.g. UL, IEC, CE or RoHS. These certifications guarantee that the connector is safe and reliable.
• Some industries (e.g. automotive, aviation or medical technology) have special requirements for the connectors used. Make sure that the selected connectors comply with the industry-specific standards.
• Connectors that can be installed without tools or with minimal effort save time and money.
• In industrial environments where cables are subject to heavy strain, the connector should provide sufficient strain relief to secure the connection and prevent cable breakage.
• The connector should meet the technical requirements without breaking the budget. High-quality connectors can be more expensive, but often offer a longer service life and reliability.
• Check that the connector and associated spare parts are readily available to minimize downtime during operation

When purchasing industrial connectors, the electrical requirements, mechanical robustness, protection against environmental influences and signal requirements are decisive. Important factors such as material quality, ease of assembly and certifications also contribute to longevity and reliability. Careful selection guarantees that the connector meets the specific requirements of the application and enables a safe and efficient connection.

Industrial connectors can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about manufacturers and suppliers of Industrial connectors from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.