The MIL grade connectors that are also called MIL-Spec connectors are the ones that are manufactured to meet all the requirements of the equipment used in the Military. Here MIL stands for Military and Spec stands for specifications that justify the name given to these connector types. Every country uses different types of equipment and hence, the specification of MIL grade connectors varies from one country to another but the basic principle behind every connector requirement is the same. The Mil grade connectors are famous among the military industry because of their connectivity and safety features. Because of such features, they are highly used in aerospace and power industries.
Because of the less knowledge and information about the Mil-Spec connectors, people do not use them properly. Being an engineer, you need to know about all types of connectors as they are the core piece for any kind of machine. If you are looking for some useful information about the MIL grade connectors, then you are at the right place. This article is going to cover various specifications about these connectors that are essential for an engineer to know.
MIL Grade Connectors Specifications
- Shell Size: If you are aware of the shell specifications of other connector types, you will find the MIL grade connector specification a bit different from the usual ones. Shell size indicates the size of the connector and it varies according to the application requirement. MIL grade connectors are available in the circular shell with 8 to 36 inches in size and 0.5 inches of raise.
- Shell Gender: It is considered the most important specification in military connectors as Genders are used to specify the applications. There are two Genders- male and female in connectors. In female connectors, sockets and receptors are added that are used to accommodate male connectors. As Female connectors have sockets, male connectors are designed with pins and contact points that are used to fit in the female connectors. The male and female contacts come in combination so that they get attached tightly and create a perfect joint so that no data or signal gets lost during the transmission.
- Contact Type: This is another very important specification for Military connectors. Every device has a different type of connector contact. The contact type should also match with its corresponding male and female plug to create a perfect and damage-free connection. To increase the conductivity of these connector types, copper is used to making them.
- Coupling Type: Coupling is the process through which the connectors are coupled or sealed together tightly. There are various coupling methods available for MIL-spec connectors like Bayonet coupling, threaded coupling, breech lock, spring lock, and even Push and Pull couplings. Each type has its importance and can be used for a particular device only. The person working on the connectors must be completely aware of various coupling types and must them wisely to avoid any kind of emergency. The coupling methods are very easy to understand and can be applied without any problem.
