Interconnection


Case study: IP68 sealing and EMI protection for radar application

28 July 2021 Interconnection

The end users of radar systems require them to be durable, reliable and to require little maintenance. In order to track multiple targets, such a system needs to have the most accurate transmission of information and protection of signals possible. The expectations of radar manufacturers are very high and that is why they demand excellent quality and performance from each component that makes up the entire system.

What follows is an example of a connector project that will be used in a radar system. The project showcases Nicomatic’s IP68 sealing and EMI protection capabilities with its cable assemblies and harnessing. This specific radar system is mounted on a truck trailer that will be used to monitor the sky for surveillance of unfriendly missiles cruising the sky.

The application requires a low-loss, phase-stable cable assembly and harness. Nicomatic fulfilled this need by offering a custom-designed cable assembly with multiple value-added features. The final cable assembly and harness was shielded end-to-end for EMI protection to ensure high signal integrity. The radar system will have different assemblies that operate at different frequencies which cannot interfere with one another, which is why EMI protection is a key requirement for a rugged and reliable connector solution.

Nicomatic offers many levels of EMI protection that can be adapted to different applications. Each situation is unique and may require specific features that a customer can combine depending on their application. In this situation the customer chose five different options for EMI protection:

• Added flange: Used to fill the panel cut clearance and provide efficient shouldering.

• Conductive EMI O-ring: Provides 360-degree protection around the connector and a conductive seal between the panel and connector.

• Canted coil spring: Provides signal continuity between mated connectors.

• Split or mono backshell: A backshell is used to secure the cable and to avoid stresses on the soldered/crimped part of the contact. It also shields against electrical interference and from mechanical damages.

• EMI braid: Provides end-to-end mechanical and signal protection of the full harness solution.

IP68 sealing was another requirement of the customer. This connector will be used in extreme environments outside of the box, exposed to various elements such as dust and water. Nicomatic offers multiple options to meet the needs of different IP rating requirements. For this situation the customer chose four different options for IP protection:

• IPXX interfacial seal: Provides ingress protective from the elements while the connector is unmated.

• Flange with sealing O-ring: Used to fill the panel cut-out clearance and provide efficient shouldering with 360-degree protection around the connector and a waterproof seal between the panel and connector. This feature is available in a conductive and non-conductive silicone.

• Sealed fixing hardware: Provides additional sealing around the fixing hardware to protect from unwanted debris or liquid (or moisture) from entering the connector.

• Backpotting: Used for protection from moisture and debris, both of which are prevented from entering a connector housing. Increases the surface area of attachment between the wire and the housing. This adds strength, increases reliability and reduces the potential for connector failure.

When choosing a cable assembly and harness, keep in mind that there are always many ways to protect it from harsh elements. Depending on your situation you may only need one added feature, but in a different application you may need to select many features to meet your overall system requirements.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Mouser shares expert design solutions for advanced robotics development
Interconnection
Mouser Electronics has announced a new interactive eBook, ‘The Electric Workforce’, in collaboration with electronics manufacturer and connectivity innovator, Molex.

Read more...
Explosive zone connectors
Interconnection
The connector series design by Glenair is optimised for fast and easy crimp-contact wire termination, with ample wiring space in the cable housing and accessory hardware.

Read more...
Reliable photovoltaic adapter set
Phoenix Contact Interconnection
Phoenix Contact’s PV-AS-MC4/6-150-MN-SET1 is a high-performance photovoltaic adapter set designed to bridge SUNCLIX connectors with MC4 connectors.

Read more...
Liquid cooling connectors improve thermal management
Startech Industrial Interconnection
The leak-free design and high flow rate of both series from Amphenol make the connectors ideal for high-reliability equipment that employ liquid cooling.

Read more...
Multi-config connector series
Future Electronics Interconnection
Hirose Electric’s DF11 Series is a versatile 2,0 mm pitch, double-row board-to-wire connector designed to simplify a wide range of connection needs.

Read more...
Ultra-rugged connector
Hiconnex Interconnection
Radiall has introduced a new connector for ribbon fibre connections called Fortero to provide proven performance in high-vibration, high-impact, and extreme environments.

Read more...
Innovative D-Sub PushPull hood
Hiconnex Interconnection
HARTING has launched its new D-Sub PushPull housings, designed to improve efficient and process-safe handling by transforming a well-known connector family into a simplified solution.

Read more...
High-density multicoax assemblies
RFiber Solutions Interconnection
Withwave’s high speed and high-density multicoax cable assemblies provides a wide range of multiple coax connectors and flexible cable assemblies.

Read more...
RJ45 jacks with integrated magnetics
Phoenix Contact Interconnection
Phoenix Contact now offers RJ45 jacks with integrated magnetics to improve electromagnetic interference (EMI) noise shielding and ensure reliable data connections in industrial environments.

Read more...
Single Pair Ethernet standards
Phoenix Contact Interconnection
The SPE standard 10BASE-T1L in accordance with IEEE 802.3cg provides for a significantly longer transmission distance than Ethernet, with the standard defining an SPE transmission distance of up to 1000 m.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved