Waterproof connectors operate at -55°C–125°C

ITT Interconnect Solutions has unveiled a line of connectors for harsh underwater applications. The waterproof CIR Marine Bronze Series connectors meet IP67 specifications when mated and deliver up to 2,000 mating cycles.

The interconnect products—resistant to shock and vibration—are manufactured from an aluminum-bronze alloy that also contains iron, nickel, manganese and lead, making them resistant to rust and corrosion, ITT claimed. The devices have a snap-in lock that provides audible verification of correct coupling. They are waterproof to 10m for up to 12 hours—for classes with specified grommets and gaskets. The design has no thread to gall and bind, so connection integrity is unaffected by contaminants such as dust and sand.

"The rugged and durable CIR Marine Bronze Series connectors are specifically designed and manufactured to exceed the stringent requirements for naval and marine applications, including ships and submarines. The customizable connectors also provide a long operating life with the quick coupling/uncoupling functionality," said Mike Gardiner, product manager at ITT

The connectors are RoHS compliant and are available in three different types: CIR Marine Bronze Bayonet (meets NATO standard VG 95234 and features bayonet lock), VGE Series (meets NATO standard VG 96929) and VE-VS Marine Bronze Threaded Series (meets MIL-DTL-5015 standard).

Featuring an operational temperature range of -55°C to 125°C, the interconnects are available in the same wide range of sizes and contact arrangements as standard CIR connectors and give the same electrical characteristics. Customized CIR Marine Bronze connectors are offered for one-off applications and are available with one to 159 poles and with cable sections ranging from 0.15–107mm².