Reduction of assembly time with plug-and-play power connector

Today, very little works without electricity. Machines and systems need sufficient power to operate. They must be reliable, safe to operate and easy to install. Automation specialist Murrelektronik offers a solution with the MQ15 family of power connectors, which is suitable for various applications in the logistics, food and beverage, packaging and automotive industries, among others.

"With the MQ15, a ¼ turn is all it takes to create a secure, IP67 rated connection. This innovative quick-connect system reduces assembly time for installation, service and maintenance to 80%," explains Tom Van Hootegem, Head of Outside Sales at Murrelektronik. "Companies can check both visually and with the audible 'click' that the connector is installed correctly. The compact design and high current transfer values (16 A continuous at 600 V AC) enable a wide range of applications, including connecting asynchronous or three-phase motors up to 7.5 kW, AC motors and frequency converters. The MQ15 h coupling with ¼ turn lock mechanism allows motors to be connected easily and quickly. This means that simple patches can be made in the power supply. It significantly reduces installation time when connecting multiple motors."

Features

Van Hootegem lists the main features of the power connector. "There is a quick lock for short assembly time. The connector is 6-pole and has 3 power contacts up to 16A, 2 auxiliary contacts up to 10A and PE. Power cable assemblies for industrial machines are done according to UL listing (PVVA - UL 2237) and the IP67 degree of protection ensures a safe connection. With the MQ15 family, there is a choice of cable rupture-compatible, highly flexible, flame-retardant and oil/chemical-resistant PUR sleeves or cost-effective, chemical-resistant PVC sleeves. This allows up to 10 million alternating bending cycles within a temperature range of -50 to +80°C. These properties make the connector suitable for use in a variety of industries, including the toughest industrial applications."

Applications

The system is already widely used in conveyor systems in the transport of products, parts and components, sorting and stacking of goods, labeling, dosing, filling and sealing of products, material handling, and so on. 

High-tech plastics

"The connector transfers high currents in the smallest possible space. By using high-tech plastics and minimal use of expensive metal components, the MQ15 has an optimal price-performance ratio."

Simple motor connections

"Finally, the connectors allow motors to be converted into a pluggable solution. Motor integration is possible via the M20 × 1.5 thread. This eliminates the need for adapters or special solutions," Van Hootegem concludes.