New-Tech Europe Magazine | Dec 2017

Image 1: M8 M12 Actuator Sensor Connectors

a rugged, sealed connector. In addition to automotive production, other industries that call for specific cables to best meet reliability demands include food and beverage processing environments, machine building, rubber and plastics, textile and printing presses. They’re also seen connected to spray valves on farm implements or coolant valves in HVAC systems. The wide variety of cable types, connector orientations and keying options allows the M8 and M12 connectors to address a wide range of situations and applications. Since the introduction of the 3- and 4-pin versions of the M12, many more variations and options have become available. The connectors are offered in both straight and right angle configurations and can now be found in 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-, 8- and 12-pin versions. In addition to IP67, M12 connectors are offered with IP65, IP68 and IP69K ratings. This allows the M12 to be used in the most demanding applications, even where high pressure wash- down processes are required. IP69K

variety of colors and some versions are halogen-free. The automotive market in the U.S. has moved to cables that require either a power- limited tray cable (PLTC) or tray cable-exposed run (TC-ER) rating. Shielded cables are available and are frequently used for fieldbus cables (e.g., Ethernet, PROFINET, PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, etc.), but are also used for sensor and actuator cables in high-noise environments. Other cable options include high temperature, industry certifications and armoring. For the oil and gas industry, making sure cables can withstand high temperatures is critical, while the mining and shipping sectors are concerned with industry certifications. Why Use an M8 or M12 Interconnect System? The vast number of choices can make selecting a cord set a daunting task. But before selecting a cord set, it’s critical to evaluate the environment and understand why a cord set is required. Understanding the need will help to narrow down

applications often require resistance to corrosion, which can be achieved by using stainless-steel coupling nuts. The M12 is also available in the following keying/coding options: A-code - Primarily used with sensors and actuators B-code - PROFIBUS fieldbus connections C-code (dual keyway) – Primarily used with AC sensors and actuators D-code - 100Mb EtherNet/IP 4-pin X-code - Gigabit Ethernet 8-pin This covers the options for the connector itself, but the number of options grows substantially when you consider all of the different cable types that are available. A polyvinyl chloride (PVC) jacketed cable is the most popular cable used with M12 and M8 connectors. A variety of colors are available (e.g., yellow, black, gray, orange, etc.) and PVC will stand up well in a typical industrial environment. A polyurethane (PUR) jacket is a good choice if constant flexing or abrasion are environmental concerns; PUR- jacketed cables can be found in a

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