22-01-2101

Rectangular Connectors - Housings

Rectangular connectors are an important part of the wire and cable market. Housings are designed as a semi-permanent vessel for these connectors. The size, shape, and features of any given housing can vary greatly, allowing customers to find a product that perfectly matches their needs.

Housings provide basic protection and organization for the components in the connector, such as the mating and mating receptacles, in order to ensure proper and safe assembly. Housings also ensure proper fitment and tolerances for wires, resistors, and other components used in the assembly. In some cases, housings can be combined with additional components such as wiring harnesses to provide additional protection and connectivity as needed.

The application for housings are varied and can include anything from residential and commercial construction, to medical and aerospace industries. They are also found in industrial machinery, appliances, automotive, marine, and aerospace applications. Some of these housings are made from plastic, rubber, metal, or special materials such as glass or ceramic.

The working principle of a housing consists of four elements – the contacts, the insertion force or mechanical retention, the sealing, and the EMC or environmental shielding. The metal contacts are the core contact points within the connector, and supply all the electrical connection between the mating plugs. The insertion force holds the mating plugs securely in place. The sealing element provides protection from environmental factors, such as dust and water, which could disrupt the connection. The shielding element provides protection from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.

In order to ensure that the housings, and the connections within them, function correctly and safely, a number of measures must be taken. Housing geometry must be exact. Some housings may feature reinforcements such as heat staking or additional strain reliefs to reinforce the resistance of the connector under stress. For electrical protection, many housing designs include a seal between the housing and the insert, to make sure that no external sources can interfere with the connection. Furthermore, housings may include a drain or vent path to direct any moisture which may enter during operation.

In conclusion, rectangular connectors and housings are an essential part of many industries, enabling electrical connections to be made between a variety of devices. With the variety of designs available, customers can select a housing which meets their exact requirements in terms of fitment, protection, and electrical safety. Understanding the working principles of housings ensures that their use is conducted correctly and safely.