How To Find the Right Connector Backshell for Your Needs?
Connectors are essential components for any electronic device or system, serving to join connectors together for the means of establishing and managing an electrical circuit. As connectors are often sensitive components that can be damaged as a result of physical force or other stressors, it is crucial that they are well protected. Connector backshells are the answer to this issue, coming in the form of accessories that are threaded onto a circular or Rectangular Connectror. While the main objective of backshell is to guard connectors, they can also serve other various roles such as promoting aesthetics or ensuring optimal connections.
While greatly varying in design and performance, the basic role of a backshell connector is simply to guard the back of a connector shell where the contacts and wires are housed. As mechanical stress is a very common cause of contact damage, many backshells will utilize a cable clamping mechanism which ensures that there is enough strain relief to prevent stress from acting on terminals that are soldered or crimped. Relieving strain from cabling and contacts is extremely beneficial, allowing the entire assembly to operate with higher performance and a longer service life. When using a strain relief connector that does not pose any other specific benefits, they should always be placed in a clean and dry environment due to their lack of environmental protection.
If a type of connector is to be used in an intensive environment such as on an aircraft or within a manufacturing plant, it is extremely important that it is well protected from any harsh conditions such as exposure to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). When an application necessitates such protection, one should specifically shop for an EMI/RFI environmental backshell for their connectors. With their ample ability to guard contacts, cables, and terminals from environmental and physical stressors, EMI/RFI environmental backshells are the best choice for intensive military and aerospace applications.
While such options are highly beneficial, the construction of the backshells often pose an issue when a more low-profile design is necessary. In such instances, one would take advantage of a heat shrink boot, that of which is an alternative to metal counterparts while still achieving a good amount of strain relief and environmental sealing. Oftentimes, heat shrink boot backshells are combined with boot adapters that are specifically designed for particular components.
Once the specific details for protection are narrowed down, it is then time to decide which backshell is the best fit. Generally, one should consider factors such as the outside diameter of connector cables, if there will be any bends, temperature requirements, and more. Depending on the application, one may also be able to get away with a standard commercial backshell, while certain defense applications will necessitate a Mil-Spec backshell for performance.
Upon determining your particular needs for connector backshells and other connector accessories, we invite you to take advantage of Aerospace Store’s services to quickly source everything you require with time and cost savings. Aerospace Store is a trusted distributor of aircraft parts and electronic equipment, presenting customers access to over 2 billion items that are ready to purchase at any time. With our unrelenting dedication to quality control, we are proud to operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation. Take the time to explore our massive set of offerings as you see fit, and our RFQ service allows customers to request quotes for their comparisons with ease. Once you finalize a form and submit it, our team will rapidly review it and respond with a personalized solution, all within 15 minutes. Experience the future of part procurement when you get in touch with an Aerospace Store representative.
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