Connectors meet demands of hybrid electric vehicles

2nd December 2016

Mick Elliott

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Two high-quality connectors from Amphenol that are designed to meet the rigorous demands of use in hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs) are in stock at RS Components. Key applications for the new MSD and mini-MSD connectors include high-energy storage systems for the battery Manual Service Disconnect (MSD) used for servicing plug-in HEV (PHEV) systems.

The Amphenol MSD device is a safe reliable solution for PHEV servicing. It uses a two-stage lever to open the high-voltage interlock loop (HVIL) circuit prior to the separation of the high-voltage contacts.

It is also a tool-free solution for disconnecting the internal high-voltage battery pack, while protecting the high-voltage battery pack from short circuit. All high-voltage conduction surfaces on the receptacle assembly are also finger-proof touch safe.

The mini-MSD connector is based upon the high-quality MSD device, but is smaller in size to provide a more compact solution, and is lower in cost. Both the MSD and mini-MSD feature the two-stage lever, which provides an HVIL time delay as well as two integrated internal HVILs.

Neither model requires ‘unmating’ tools and both are available with various fuse ratings, in addition to offering a receptacle that can be either front or rear mounted.

Many countries across the world are taking steps to deal with increased pollution levels and traffic congestion and this includes promoting increased adoption of HEVs.

Amphenol is working closely with major automotive makers to develop key interconnection components for HEVs: for example, in conjunction with Tata Motors in India, Amphenol has developed high-power interconnect systems for India’s first hybrid-electric bus.

All Amphenol’s products for HEVs are built to be robust and durable, along with the ability to withstand a range of different harsh environmental conditions, such as vibration, humidity, dust, salt and temperature extremes.

Other characteristics of the MSD and mini-MSD connectors include: current handling up to 630A for the MSD and up to 400A for the mini-MSD based on fuse selected; high durability that allows more than 50 mating cycles; and sealing to IP67 and IP6K9K (mated).

The connectors also handle temperature extremes by using a unique cooling structure with a double-channel design that lowers temperature rises.

The operating temperature range is from –40°C to +85°C.