NATO connectors are typically used in one of two scenarios: to gain power from a military vehicle to a trailer or to jumpstart a military vehicle. In what’s a very critical time element, failure is not an option for these connectors. They must be ready to go, with a NATO connector design that is able to withstand the harshest environmental conditions.
The standards under which NATO connectors are designed and manufactured help to ensure this. In fact, everything that people associate with military readiness is reflected in NATO connectors and assemblies.
The Rigid Design Requirements for NATO Connectors
NATO connectors face many environmental stressors in military deployments, from extreme heat to freezing temperatures. To ensure reliability and interoperability under these conditions, NATO connectors have strict design and testing standards.
NATO connectors must be engineered to withstand high voltage levels so they can safely and reliably transmit electrical power.
While NATO connectors must be robust, they should also be simple in design. In the military industry specifically, weight and space constraints are a big concern. A NATO connector design must also prioritize reliability and functionality.
The Rigid Testing Requirements for NATO Connectors
Before voltage runs through the cables, NATO connectors are soaked in a saltwater bath. With its corrosive properties, saltwater is known to accelerate material degradation. By exposing NATO connectors to saline solutions, manufacturers can replicate the corrosive effects of seawater to maritime or coastal military operations. The test ensures that NATO connectors can withstand prolonged exposure to saltwater without there being an impact on their reliability and longevity.
As part of the testing requirements, manufacturers also assess how resistant NATO connectors are to vibrations and shock. From these tests, they can evaluate if the connectors are able to maintain their structural integrity and electrical continuity under these dynamic conditions. There’s also a series of environmental tests to help to verify that the connectors can remain fully operational in diverse conditions.
Emerging Industrial Use Cases for NATO Connectors
While NATO connectors are primarily used for the military, other industrial applications have emerged. Looking for their own durable and low-maintenance assemblies, some commercial bus companies and mass transit companies now use NATO connectors.
Considering the various weather conditions these vehicles encounter and the constant stop-and-go, the reliable nature of NATO connectors is an ideal fit for these commercial systems. Not to mention, NATO connector standardization also simplifies maintenance and repairs on these systems, which helps to reduce downtime.
NATO connectors can really be used anywhere where the transmission of high voltage is required and where the ease of installation is ideal.
At Amerline, our NATO connectors are perfectly designed and built to meet NATO standards. Learn more about our quality products.
