Amphenol’s Raptor connectors take off at Powell Electronics
For electric aircraft and e-VTOL (vertical take off and landing) aircraft, Amphenol’s Raptor connectors are designed for the termination of screened, high voltage power cables in aerospace applications.
Raptor connectors are based on Amphenol’s Rhino series for ground power applications. They have been re-engineered for aerospace applications and use the company’s new Talon contacts. They are available in shell sizes 15 to 25. They can operate in temperatures up to +200 degrees C. Other features include IP68 sealing, increased creepage and clearance distances and an anti-decoupling ratchet mechanism on both coupling ring and backshell for a reliable connection even under high vibrations. They also have “superior EMC performance”, electroless nickel plating and a high voltage insulation system, said Powell, for a reliable connection for high power e-flight systems.
In particular, the high power, high voltage connectors have been designed for electric planes, helicopters, e-VTOL and hybrid applications. The Raptor range is now available from Powell Electronics.
The distributor specialises in connectors for high-rel applications including defence, aerospace and industrial. The Raptor connectors benefit from partial discharge free performance at an operating voltage of 2.0kV AC(rms) at 35,000 feet (1066 metres). According to Powell Electronics, this makes them particularly suitable for applications such as batteries, generators, motors and power distribution units. Raptor connectors are also suitable for the termination of screened high voltage power cables in aerospace applications.
Powell Electronics is a specialist in high reliability, harsh environment connector design, manufacturing and supply chain. In the USA, Powell has connector manufacturing capabilities at its Swedesboro, New Jersey facility, which is certified to ISO9001 and AS9100.
Powell offers automated engineering solutions and connector ODM services. The company is an authorised, QPL distributor for over 50 military specifications and is ISO9120 certified.
In Europe, Powell Electronics operations are in Dublin, Ireland where technical staff support design-in activities. Franchises agreements include Glenair, Harwin, Amphenol Aerospace, Quell, AB Connectors, Lemo, Conesys and Positronic.
Powell Electronics says it is able to address the broad range of demanding connector applications with products that range from miniature PCB-mount devices to high voltage, high current hi-rel solutions.
