Four reasons for connector failure?

Although each connector has a rated life cycle, for those used in industrial machinery, incorrect design and some other factors can also cause the connector to fail prematurely, resulting in expensive machinery and equipment damage. Therefore, some factors that cause the failure of the connector are still worthy of attention. The following are 4 common factors that cause the failure of the connector. Let's take a look!

1. The degree of wear of the connector

    Repeated connection and disconnection of connectors can cause the metal on the contacts to wear and corrode when exposed to water, dust, dirt, and other irritating elements, so that the mating pins may not engage properly when inserted into the connector housing.

2. Improper selection of connectors

    If the selected connector product is inappropriate in size or specification, it will not only reduce the efficiency of use, but also shorten the service life of the connector.

3. The application temperature of the connector

    If the connectors are not rated for very high or very low temperatures, they will eventually fail too, since the connector is not designed for high temperatures, the insulation fails and the conductivity spikes. If operating at sustained high temperatures, these spikes will raise the temperature, potentially causing corrosion and ultimately reducing contact forces. This affects the electrical signals propagating through the connector and cable assembly.

    While cold temperatures will not affect connectors as badly as hot temperatures, low temperature designs should be considered if the application demands it. For example, applying the connector at a constant low temperature can cause the tinned connector material to soften, thereby increasing the contact resistance. Also, low temperatures can affect other parts of the connector, such as making the plastic shell brittle.

4. Improper connector design and installation

    If the application of the connector is subject to shock, vibration and other damaging factors, the safety design that can produce a strong latch is very important. Connector contacts, mating shells and even cables can suffer damage if not securely installed.

    Also, connectors and cable assemblies must have proper strain relief and installation routing, and the use of guide grooves, cable brackets, and cable glands can help ensure rated connector assembly life.