TE Connectors (Tyco Electronics, now known as TE Connectivity) are widely used in AUTOMOTIVE WIRING HARNESS systems. They are known for their high reliability and ability to withstand harsh environments. The main components of TE CONNECTORS include:
1. Housing (Connector Body)
• Material: Typically made of high-strength engineering plastics (such as PA66, PBT) with properties like high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and flame retardancy.
• Function:
• Provides structural support and mating alignment.
• Protects the terminals from environmental factors such as moisture and dust.
2. Terminal (Contact)
• Material: Usually made of copper alloy, with surface plating (tin, silver, or gold) to enhance conductivity and corrosion resistance.
• Types: Male and female terminals, which connect via insertion.
• Function:
• Enables electrical signal or power transmission.
• Connected to wires through a crimping process to ensure mechanical and electrical reliability.
3. Locking Mechanism
• Comes in various forms such as secondary lock and CPA (Connector Position Assurance).
• Function:
• Prevents accidental disconnection or loosening.
• Ensures the connector is properly engaged for safe and reliable operation.
4. Seal
• Includes:
• Wire seal: seals around the wire.
• Interface seal: seals between connectors.
• Material: Typically silicone or rubber.
• Function:
• Provides waterproof and dustproof protection.
• Meets automotive protection standards like IP67 or IP69K.
5. Crimp Zone
• The tail end of the terminal used for wire connection.
• Crimped using specialized tooling to ensure mechanical strength and electrical conductivity.
• Typically includes:
• Conductor crimp: secures the wire strands.
• Insulation crimp: secures the wire insulation.
6. Position Assurance / Keying Features
• Helps prevent incorrect connections (misalignment or wrong mating).
• Unique “keying” designs ensure connectors only mate with the correct counterpart.
7. Polarization (Anti-Mismating Structure)
• Mechanical design that ensures connectors can only be inserted in the correct orientation.
• Includes guide slots, tabs, and locking features.
Common TE Connector Series in Automotive Applications
TE Connectivity offers a wide range of connector series for automotive use, including:
• AMP Superseal Series (e.g., 1.5, 2.8): Compact sealed connectors, commonly used in engine compartments and other harsh environments.
• MCON Series: Used in advanced automotive electronic control systems.
• Junior Power Timer (JPT) Series: Suitable for higher current applications.
• HDSCS Series: Designed for high-power, high-current demands.
Hongkong Suntex Electronic Co., Ltd.
