MAXI-D Series
Connectors for
Astronaut Operations
In the frame of Space Station Alpha program, SOURIAU has developed and qualified a series
of Astronaut operable high reliability rectangular connectors which are suitable for both IVA
& EVA activities. This hardware is used on the COF (Colombus Orbital Facility) module which
is part of the European contribution to the Space Station. These connectors feature :
• Low Insertion Force contacts
• High density of contacts (72 # 22)
• Scoop proof design
• High durability (5000 mating/demating operations)
• High EMI shielding efficiency
• Associated dismountable EMI backshells
• Easy inspection, maintenance or repair after wiring.
Characteristics
Materials and finishes
Components
Material
Finish
Shells & backshells
Inserts
Aluminium alloy
Nickel plating : electroless & flashing
- Insulator
- Wire guide
Duroplastic
Silicone
-
-
Contacts
See L.I.F. contacts
Copper alloy
See L.I.F. contacts
-
Contact retaining clip
Locking device
- Mechanical parts
- Springs
Aluminium alloy
Stainless steel or Berylium copper
Electroless Electrolytic Nickel plated
-
Maximum ratings
Maximum ratings
N°
Characteristics
Symbol
Unit
min
Max.
1
2
3
Working voltage (sea level)
Rating current
Ur
Ir
---
---
200
Vrms
A
5
Operating temperature range
Mating/Demating in mated status
Top
-55
+15
+150
+40
°C
°C
4
5
6
Storage temperature range
Soldering temperature
Connector life
Tstg
Tsol
---
-65
---
+150
+260
> 500
°C
°C
---
cycles (1)
(1) 1 cycle = 1 mating/demating over 10 years
Electrical characteristics
Test
method
Test
condition
Limits
N°
Characteristics
Symbol
Unit
min
Max.
ESA/SCC 3401
para. 9.1.1.1
ESA/SCC 3401
para. 9.1.1.2
ESA/SCC 3401
para. 9.1.1.4
ESA/SCC 3401
para. 9.1.1.3
1
2
3
4
Insulation resistance
Ri
IL
para. 9.1.1.1
10 000
---
MΩ
mA
mΩ
mΩ
Voltage proof - Leakage current
800 Vrms
para. 9.1.1.4
para. 9.1.1.3
---
---
---
2
7
6
(1)
Mated shell conductivity
Contact resistance
R
Rc
(1) From grounding screw of the backshell to the receptacle flange.
(These measurements have been performed at : Tamb = + 22 3°C).
108