TE outs 'make first, break last' Power Triple Lock connector

TE Connectivity (TE) has revealed a make first, break last (MFBL) functionality as part of its Power Triple Lock connector product line. The MFBL connector's application-specific grounding design allows the ground connection to be set before power connections are made, and maintains the connection until the power connections are broken, targeting the needs of mid-range power connections for appliances and commercial building equipment.

Using TE's Power Triple Lock connector design, the MFBL connector can facilitate easier assembly and more secure connections than other pin-and-socket connector solutions, stated the company. The three-position, wire-to-panel or wire-to-wire MFBL connector is based on a 6mm centreline pitch. Like other Power Triple Lock connectors, it is rated for 600V AC or DC, although the MFBL connector is limited to 12A maximum current as its contacts accept wire no larger than 16AWG (1.3mm²).

Power Triple Lock connectors offer: polarisation and keying to help prevent connector mis-mating, an anti-snag design to help keep wires from snagging on the contact and housing, a locking mechanism to help secure connections when the cap and plug latch together, and a low insertion force design to ease the assembly process. For additional reliability, an optional terminal position assurance (TPA) device helps ensure that contacts are fully seated in the housings, and an optional connector position assurance (CPA) device helps prevent the connector from being mistakenly disengaged.

The MFBL connector's housings are slightly longer than those of standard Power Triple Lock connectors. It is glow-wire-test compliant and is designed for operating temperatures from -55°C up to 105°C. Its contacts are tin-plated copper alloy and include a longer receptacle; has an extended length tab for the ground connection; and uses existing, standard-length Power Triple Lock connector tabs for the power connections.