Amphenol High Power and High Voltage Connectors are Powering the Electrification Revolution

The next generation of high-power applications is upon us, and they require system architecture that can sustain significant power throughput. Amphenol Aerospace’s High Power and High Voltage connectors and contacts are designed for powering the electrification revolution, enabling advanced electric and hybrid-electric systems to perform under the most demanding conditions.

Let’s take a closer look at how Amphenol’s High Power and High Voltage solutions support the functionality and reliability of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, electric and hybrid-electric military vehicles, and charging infrastructure.

Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) Aircraft

The emergence of eVTOL aircraft marks a significant shift in not only aerospace technology, but how people get around urban and regional areas. ?These Urban air mobility aircraft are slated to take to the skies sometime this decade and they rely heavily on electric propulsion systems that require the transmission of high levels of power with minimal losses.

eVTOLs operate using electric motors and energy storage systems that function at high voltages to improve efficiency and reduce weight. Connectors used in these systems must handle these voltages safely without degradation over time. The compact and lightweight design of eVTOLs also demands connectors that offer high power density in a small form factor.

Additionally, eVTOLs must operate under varying environmental conditions. The connectors throughout the aircraft must withstand these conditions without compromising electrical integrity.

Amphenol's High Power and High Voltage Connectors are engineered with advanced materials and design features to handle extreme electrical demands. These connectors meet strict MIL-SPEC standards including MIL-DTL-38999 and MIL-DTL-5015, providing superior durability in harsh environments while maintaining high current capacities. This allows for safe and reliable performance, particularly in electric propulsion systems that require robust power handling.

Amphenol’s High Power connectors can provide a current carrying capability up to 1000 amperes (70 to 250 amps per contact, 240 to 1000 amps per connector), meanwhile Amphenol’s High Voltage Connectors have been tested up to 1200 VAC/1500 VDC to remain partial discharge free at 50,000 feet.?

Amphenol High Power and High Voltage Connectors also provide high current-carrying capabilities while minimizing size and weight, which is crucial for maintaining eVTOL performance and range.

Electric and Hybrid-Electric Tactical and Non-Tactical Military Vehicles

The military's move towards electrification of tactical and non-tactical vehicles is driven by the need for improved energy efficiency, reduced logistical burdens, enhanced stealth capabilities due to quieter operations, and more. Electric and hybrid-electric vehicles require connectors that can handle high currents and voltages associated with battery systems and electric/hybrid-electric drivetrains.

High power and high voltage connectors are essential for these vehicles to manage power distribution between batteries, inverters, motors, and other subsystems. Amphenol's connectors are engineered to support high current loads with low contact resistance, minimizing power losses and heat generation.

Moreover, these vehicle systems operate throughout harsh environments, which includes exposure to dust, moisture, chemicals, and mechanical shock. The connectors throughout the system architecture of hybrid and hybrid-electric military vehicles must maintain electrical connectivity under these conditions. Amphenol's connectors offer ruggedized designs with environmental sealing, corrosion-resistant materials, and mechanical robustness to ensure long-term reliability.

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is another concern in military vehicles due to the multitude of electronic systems operating simultaneously. Amphenol's connectors incorporate EMI shielding to prevent signal degradation and ensure the integrity of communication and control systems.

Charging Infrastructure for Military Applications

The mass deployment of electric and hybrid-electric vehicles and aircraft will require robust charging infrastructure capable of delivering high power levels safely and efficiently. High power and high voltage connectors are a requirement for charging stations, power distribution units, and associated equipment.

In military applications, charging infrastructure must be modular, rapidly deployable, and capable of operating in austere environments. Amphenol's connectors allow for quick and secure connections for high-power charging systems, supporting both stationary and mobile charging solutions.

Safety is a critical consideration in high voltage charging systems. Connectors must prevent accidental disconnection under load and protect personnel from electrical hazards. Amphenol's connectors incorporate safety features such as interlocks, touch-proof designs, and rugged housings to mitigate these risks.

Thermal management is also essential, as high-power charging can generate significant heat. Amphenol's connectors are designed to handle thermal stresses through material selection and contact design, ensuring consistent performance during repeated charging cycles.

Learn More About Amphenol High Power and High Voltage Solutions

Amphenol Aerospace offers an extensive range of High Power and High Voltage Connectors designed for next-generation electric and hybrid-electric military and aerospace applications. Amphenol Aerospace High Power and High Voltage solutions are designed to support your application needs and are tailored to the demands of this new wave of technology.

Visit amphenol-aerospace.com today to learn more.

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