Automotive & Transportation Technology
Overview
While electrical connectors are perhaps the most commonly utilized components in the electrical systems of today's transportation products, they are often blamed as the weakest link in these same systems. This presentation offers an overview of the concepts and definitions of contact theory, i.e., what takes place at the interface of two electrical contacts. The discussion will cover application considerations such the purpose and use of various contact platings, base metals, and sealing options. It will also include a discussion of environmental considerations such as galvanic corrosion. There are a multitude of connectors on the market; it is imperative the system designer understands the trade-offs with each design in order to match the proper connector with a specific application.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how "contact asperities" impact electrical conductivity
- Understand the differences between gold, silver, and tin plating
- Learn how to measure contact resistance
- Understand the definition of "IP rating" for connectors
- Discover how to prevent galvanic corrosion
Speaker
Dave Larson is a sales engineer with TTI, Inc., a leading distributor of passive, connector, electromechanical, and discrete components. Prior to joining TTI, Larson retired from the John Deere Product Engineering Center after 28 years of service in Ag Tractor design. His expertise includes wiring harness design, sensor development, and electronic component verification/validation.
