Issue link: https://resources.mouser.com/i/1442799
hand, the user does not always have sufficient knowledge about the M12 interface's operating conditions. On the other hand, the user wants to manage and maintain as few components as possible in the procurement and warehouse logistics. In addition, it should be possible to process the connectors without risk, even without electrical engineering expertise. To satisfy mechanical requirements such as tightness of seal with respect to dust and liquid materials in the industrial environment, standard M12 connectors must be tightened to a defined torque. To do this, the installer first requires sufficient space to access the coupling nut of the M12 connector with their hand. Second, the installer must be able to properly feel connectors with their fingertips when inserting and removing them. If both aspects are not met, the interface can sometimes fail with unforeseeable consequences, unless the installer has a torque screwdriver with the appropriate tip on hand. The M12 coupling nut can then be tightened to a defined torque even in restricted spaces, creating a reliable connection. Reliable M12 Interface with Push-Pull The new M12 push-pull locking system can easily overcome the challenges described. The operating principle is a simple push- and-pull procedure. The connector is inserted and locked, and then released by simply pulling an element of the connector. An internal mechanism unlocks the connection. The connector can be easily removed without any further action. Unlocking and locking are performed in a single linear movement. This feature offers a range of advantages for handling in numerous areas of application, and significantly increases the reliability of the M12 interface. It also increases the packing density of the interfaces—without using torque tools. The requirements for tightness of seal and mechanical strength are also satisfied, without requiring any tools. For connectors with the standard M12 interface, the sealing O-ring inside the M12 female connector is axially deformed by the torque of the M12 coupling nut, and the interface is sealed. A defined torque is therefore crucial at the M12 coupling nut. Because the seal inside the new M12 push-pull connectors has a radial action, a defined torque is not required to achieve the IP degree of protection. The push-pull locking spring offers mechanical advantages over an interface with M12 standard thread. If the standard M12 coupling nut is not sufficiently tightened, self-locking does not occur at the M12 thread, so the screw connection can loosen when exposed to mechanical influences, such as shock and vibration. The M12 push-pull connector also offers advantages here: When inserted, the connector engages with a click that can the user can feel. Thanks to this tactile feedback, the user can be sure that their M12 interface will work reliably in the long term (Figure 2). The connector springs back if it is not snapped into place correctly—again giving the user clear feedback. The M12 push-pull interface therefore permanently offers its guaranteed properties. Broad Product Range The new range of M12 push-pull connectors from Phoenix Contact includes connectors with crimp connection technology for assembly as well as device connectors. Using crimp contacts tends to take longer than fast-connection technology, such as insulation displacement or Push-in technology. By using suitable tools or machinery, however, this method also creates a fast and secure connection in series production and cable assembly, allowing you to take full advantage of potential savings—for example, in automation. Assembly line production is a good example of this: the individual process and assembly steps can be defined precisely here and broken down further, for example, into the individual process steps of cable preparation, individual contact crimping M12 Circular Connectors & Cable Assemblies Learn More 4 Figure 2: Easily inserted and reliably locked: the connector springs back if it is not snapped into place correctly (left) —or it locks with a click that can be felt. (Source: Phoenix Contact) • Enable comprehensive connection solutions for devices with data rates up to 10Gbps • Connect signals up to 17 positions and for supplying power up to 630V and 16A in the smallest installation spaces • Modular structure of device connectors facilitates the simple and cost-effective integration | 15 |