Need a connector that’s easy to install in harsh environments?

Installing or maintaining production lines in an industrial environment is not easy - the factory environment can be loud, dirty and potentially dangerous. At the same time, the requirement for the work to be performed quickly is paramount as a production line that is stopped is a production line that is not generating revenue. Time, in this instance, is wasted money.

The stations of a modern production line are modularised, with the intention that a faulty element can be removed, and its replacement connected quickly in its place, thus keeping downtime to a minimum. The faulty device can then be repaired away from the pressure of a stopped production line. However, there will always be occasions when repairs or installations have to be completed in situ.

It is under these circumstances that decisions taken during the original design of the machine can either help or hinder the repair process. If the original design deliberately employs a connector that, by its inherent features, can be quickly reworked in the field, then the choices made can potentially save huge costs later in the life of the equipment.

For many years the Han® series of connectors from HARTING have provided trusted and reliable connections in the industrial environment. With a huge range of options and accessories, the Han® is ideally suited to our factory floor application.

HARTING have developed a new version of the Han® called the Han® ES Press that is aimed at reducing installation time, easing the troubleshooting process and allowing for rapid switching of connectors. The Han® ES Press uses a new insert design compatible with all existing Han® series housings and accessories, that offers a tool-less rapid termination. In addition, users can quickly and easily bridge contacts by placing plug-in jumpers directly at the connector.

The rapid termination technology of the Han® ES Press is based on the proven cage clamp, providing a reliable and vibration-proof connection. It combines the advantages of faster termination times during production with the full functionality of a field-installable connector. Whether using stranded wires with or without ferrules, the ES Press can reduce installation time by up to 50% compared with traditional termination techniques.

The Han® ES Press is also versatile and reconfigurable, with the use of a series of plug-in jumpers. These are plugged directly into the insulation body, and allow easy implementation of functions from longitudinal and transverse bridges to star and delta circuits.

This same versatility provides the Han® ES Press with yet more functionality for circuit troubleshooting. The measurement point that is integrated into the opening of the plug-in jumpers is easy to access when the connector is mounted and allows measurements of the operating states. Wiring errors and defective components can be found more quickly.

Han® ES Press inserts are compatible with existing installations and accessories of the hugely successful Han® connector range from HARTING, and are available now from RS Components.