HARTING UK awarded prestigious IRIS Silver Quality Performance Level

,

HARTING UK are delighted to announce that they have been awarded the prestigious Silver Quality Performance Level award from the International Railway Industry Standard (IRIS). This is a globally recognised standard which evaluates management systems for the railway sector.

Silver Performance is currently the highest performance level issued by IRIS and is a significant achievement for HARTING UK, making them one of only 60 companies worldwide to receive Silver status and putting them in the top 3% globally of all IRIS certified companies.

IRIS is established as a European Rail Industry Association (UNIFE) group and is recognised by both system manufacturers and railway operators. It was set up with the aim of establishing higher quality and reliability of rolling stock and infrastructure in the railway industry. Via an efficient system for auditing railway suppliers, the aim is to create transparency throughout the supply chain.

Stuart Fisher, Director of Operations at HARTING Manufacturing UK Ltd, was delighted with the award, saying:

“To receive such a prestigious award is great testimony to everybody at HARTING and really endorses our commitment to quality. It also clearly demonstrates our passion for quality throughout the business and offers our customers great confidence in our products.  It’s also clear that as a business we have a culture of continuous improvement and that we will strive to get even better at what we do.”

 

 

 

 

 

The HARTING UK manufacturing facility in Northampton produces bespoke cable assemblies and intercar jumpers for the rail market, based on the extensive HARTING product portfolio. Additional services include full design and development support and onsite testing of cabling and wiring. As well as the IRIS Silver Quality Award, the facility also holds ISO 9001 certification for Quality Management, the ISO 14001 Environmental Standard and UL certification for Wiring Harnesses ZPFW2 / ZPFW8.

/by

Harting Han® 1A rectangular connectors as a new Ethernet interface

,

Fast and secure data transmission supports miniaturisation in machine building and automation.

Ethernet-based data networks have become indispensable in the industrial arena. Ethernet networks are connecting sensors, machinery, control systems, computers and data centres. HARTING is now also offering expedient interfaces in the form of its Han® 1A series of miniaturised industrial connectors.

The series features two new inserts to facilitate fast and secure data transmission. A D-coded version can provide end devices with up to 100 Mbit/s Cat 5 Fast Ethernet, thereby facilitating Profinet-based communication. The second, X-coded version can provide end devices with up to 10 Gbit/s, Cat 6A connections – High-Speed Ethernet. This performance is required, for example, by applications involving live camera systems. Both data versions feature complete shielding and are fitted with crimp contacts.

The Han® 1A series impresses with compact, lightweight and highly versatile connectors in a rectangular plastic housing. It is particularly well suited to connecting decentralised devices, promoting modular system design and supporting miniaturisation in machine building automation. Han® 1A solutions require up to 30% less space by comparison with the next-smallest rectangular connectors in the current HARTING portfolio.

With the introduction of these new plug-in data connectors, the series is now offering solutions spanning all three lifelines in automation technology – data, signal and power.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Han® 1A offering a wealth of benefits:

  • A connector for all three lifelines of industry.
  • Modular system: all data insert attachments and accessories can be used for power and signal versions. In this respect, the series follows the principle of a small number of components facilitating a wide range of different versions, thereby reducing storage costs.
  • Han® 1A features fast, simple and secure locking systems: a snap-in latch or a locking lever.
  • Compared to circular connectors with metal housings, the high-performance plastic in the Han® 1A series also delivers the benefits of lower weight.
  • Virtually unlimited applications: in shielded (e.g. control cabinets) and unshielded industrial settings. IP20 and IP65 solutions can be configured as desired.
  • The Han® 1A series is also ideal for the rail sector; the series meets the requirements for R22 (interior) / R23 (exterior) in accordance with EN 45545-2 as well as shock and vibration resistance requirements as stipulated by EN 61373, Cat. 2.

/by

Rugged circular connectors handle harsh conditions

,

binder, one of the industry and technology leaders in the field of industrial circular connectors, has expanded its Harsh Environment Connector (HEC) series 696 with some important models. The previous product range is supplemented by flange and cable variants with built-in protective conduit adaptation.

The integrated sealing function of the protective conduit screw connection allows cables and individual conductors routed in a suitable corrugated tube to be reliably protected against external effects to IP67. Once locked on both the plug and the receptacle sides in a manner typical for HEC, the connector achieves the degree of protection IP69K.

Applications include all types of outdoor electronic systems, mobile factory technology and sectors such as agriculture and construction where the use of high-pressure cleaners is common. Additional areas of application are traffic guidance systems, process engineering systems, water treatment and recycling plants.

Depending on the version, Series 696 power connectors with a fast-locking bayonet design are approved for a rated voltage of up to 600 V and an operating current of 32 A. Crimp contacts are used to ensure a secure, vibration-proof connection. The products are available in cable or flange versions with 5 (4+PE), 8 (4+3+PE) or 12 power or signal crimp contacts.

In addition to the broad connection cross-section of 0.14 mm2 to 6 mm2 – accessories are available to provide maximum application flexibility. Here, individual conductor sealing sets and protective caps are supplemented by a new protective conduit screw connection that is also available for retrofit.

These HEC connectors were developed by binder using materials that resist UV light and corrosive salt spray and that allow more than 1000 mating cycles at temperatures from -40 °C to +100 °C. In addition, the HEC Series 696 connectors are approved by both the VDE and the UL.

/by

Han® S: Reliable connections for modular energy storage systems

,

New series features housings accommodating a heavy-current contact up to 200 A
HARTING is now offering the Han® S, the first ever large-scale special connector for battery storage modules. The new series meets the technical requirements set down in the latest standards for stationary energy storage systems (including UL 4128) and offers users optimal reliability for connected units. The series features housings with space for a heavy-current contact up to 200 A.
The contacts are mounted in a housing, which is freely pivotable. The locking system engages intuitively. The use of red for plus and black for minus, combined with the mechanical coding system, means that the interfaces cannot be confused. Han® S thereby facilitates fast and reliable mating for energy storage modules and helps to process high numbers of connections. Alternatively, the new series can also be installed as part of a control line (BUS system) for the battery management system. It features special contacts in the housing to support this.
Interfaces in modular energy storage systems are subject to special requirements. For instance, the wiring for lithium-ion batteries requires compact plug connections that do not heat their surroundings even when transmitting high currents. The connector housing must move as freely as possible to serve storage units effectively in terms of enhancing performance and efficient cooling.
The Han® S series combines straight attachment housings with angled ‘sleeves’ that have integrated pivotable protective elements for the contacts. This combination can be rotated 360°, a key feature given the very limited space between the door opening and energy storage modules in a storage cabinet. This results in flexible connectors with high current load capacity, enabling the integration of the maximum number of storage components in the available space.

/by

binder releases M8 D-Coded connector for the latest miniature sensor applications

,

binder, recognised worldwide as one of the leading manufacturers of high performance industrial circular connectors, announces the new 818 Series: M8 D-Coded connectors. These will interest engineers who need to connect miniature sensors to Ethernet networks across applications that use the latest automation technology.

These M8 D-Code connectors are specifically designed to support the high data bandwidths that are becoming common in smart factories as well as protecting from the variety of demanding environments often found in industry. When mated and locked they protect to IP67.

The 818 Series connectors are around 30 percent smaller than conventional M12 connectors and yet is capable of enabling high-performance Ethernet connections of up to 100 Mbit/s Cat. 5e according to IEEE 802.3. Because the M8 connectors are Power over Ethernet (PoE+) compatible, they can supply both, data and power to the sensor simultaneously.

With 4 gold-plated brass contacts which are symmetrically arranged and a Nickel-plated threaded ring, the connectors have a rated current of 4A and rated voltage of 63V DC. Termination is by screw clamp and wires from 0.14 to 0.5mm² can be accommodated.

Operating temperature range is wide at -25°C to +85°C and binder has designed the 818 Series to be capable of more than 100 mating cycles.

/by

Han-Modular® Flexbox: Modular connectors for energy chains

,

Reduces the associated construction and connection effort / Less space is needed.
The flexible and reliable supply for fast, linearly moving components of machines and systems is made possible by the Han-Modular® Flexbox – a novel interface in the modular plastic housing system from HARTING. Longer, moving cable runs for machines and machine modules are easier to install and maintain.
The Han-Modular® Flexbox makes it possible to sub-divide energy chains into flexibly manageable and easily replaceable segments. The modular housing concept replaces the previous implementation consisting of multiple individual connections and offers a single plug-in and disconnection point as a compact overall solution. This reduces the associated construction and connection effort, and less space is needed. Fastening elements can be used to join the housings together in different configurations. As a result, the height and width of the interface can be flexibly designed. The Han-Modular® Flexbox thus fits the requirement profile of a wide variety of applications. The Han-Modular® Flexbox was developed in a co-engineering process with our partner igus.
The Flexbox’s housing and other components are made of high-performance plastic and comply with the applicable standards in terms of fire protection and resistance to environmental influences. The seals on the cable glands are designed for easy handling and are available for cable diameters from 4 to 24 mm. The system is rounded out by integrated strain relief that can withstand forces in excess of 150 Newton. The Flexbox is a stand-alone solution that boasts all the features of housing for industrial connectors.
HARTING has succeeded in continuing the modularity inside the housing as well. Nearly all the Han-Modular® portfolio – which features more than 100 modules for transmitting currents, signals and data, as well as compressed air and fibre-optic signals – can be used in the Flexbox. This results in almost endless combination possibilities when it comes to implementing the right interface for every application. A plastic frame enables integration of the Han-Modular® modules in the Flexbox. Currently, a maximum of four modules can fit in one frame.
The connections in the Han-Modular® Flexbox are securely protected against environmental influences such as water and dust. Screw locks in different designs ensure tightness.

/by

Some positives among the COVID-19 gloom cannot disguise a hugely challenging year ahead for the UK connector industry

,

• T&M, Medical, Mil/Aero and Comms sectors still positive
• Commodity prices and supply chain issues are challenging
• ITSA members revenues drop by 10% in Q1

May 19th 2020. It has taken just a little under three months to turn what had the real potential to be a positive 2020 for the UK electronics industry into one that has shaken every business to the core. The shutdown in China, for example, has had a significant effect on the supply chain while the dramatic changes in commodity prices will have an obvious impact on materials and manufacturing as well as incoming costs and outgoing prices.
“The result of these and other challenges has meant that ITSA (Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association) members have faced a difficult first quarter.” Says ITSA’s Chairman John Biggs. “And there can be no doubt that the UK connector industry has a particularly challenging year ahead.
“In terms of numbers, ITSA members saw revenues drop by 10% compared to the fourth quarter of 2019 but of more significance is that orders dropped by 14% giving a negative book to bill of 0.87:1 which will inevitably lead to lower revenues later in the year. Member’s distribution revenues dropped by 20% and this is likely to follow elsewhere in the market as we progress through 2020.
“We have witnessed dramatic effects on the price of commodities such as Oil, which dropped to the lowest level for 18 years and Gold, where prices have increased by between 5-8% depending on which quarter we compare it to in 2019. Prices for Silver have fallen by more than 15% since January while Copper has been at a 52-week low.” Adds Biggs

According to ITSA, several markets have continued to be buoyant. These include Test & Measurement, Mil/Aero and Medical. Not surprisingly, T&M and Medical have both been positively affected by the technology demands to combat COVID-19 while Mil/Aero is almost certainly due to the need to fulfil existing programmes.
The communications market is clearly being driven by 5G with members seeing 29% growth. The deployment of Fibre into networks continues at pace and ITSA members enjoyed a 45% increase in this product area with Q1 being the highest level for 8 years.

COVID-19 – ITSA member’s response

All members of ITSA have naturally had to adjust and adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic with varying degrees of severity according to John Biggs. Some members have had to furlough staff while others have taken the decision to keep their people on board either because of demand or with support from their parent company.
Many members also responded to the challenge and are involved in supporting the medical equipment needs of the NHS. This clearly shows the level of adaptability still apparent in the UK and the present urgent requirement for COVID-19 testing for example brings into sharp focus the need for localised capabilities on into the future.
“The government is predicting that the UK economy could shrink by over 5% but that it would bounce back by Q3 or Q4 2021. This seems somewhat optimistic.” Says John Biggs
“At the moment, it is common to think about the “New Norm” which will exist after the lockdown starts to be released. This will likely take many forms but for businesses it will be a case of how best to manage their activities in a World where the traditional face to face will not be the “Norm” for many months to come.” He concludes.

/by

ITSA contribute to the Umbrella Project’s EU submission on RoHS and Reach

,

ITSA are delighted to be able to support this important initiative by the Umbrella Project

Umbrella Project_Relationship RoHS and REACH

 

 

/by

ITSA hosts its first industry editors meeting in London

,

ITSA held its first editors meeting in London on the 20th February. This was the first meeting of its kind and was the beginning of a comprehensive PR/Marketing plan which will continue throughout 2020.

The meeting was attended by several ITSA members together with editors from Electronics Sourcing, Electronic Product Design & Test, Electronics World, Components in Electronics and Electronic Specifier.

Feedback from the meeting has been very positive with a high degree of interest in further promotional activity as well as planned interviews and greater exposure of ITSA, its members and its aims and goals for the future.

There will be more information in the coming weeks.

/by

ITSA reports that 2019 ends well for the UK connector industry

,

• 2019 – ITSA Members posted 5% revenue growth over previous year
• 2019 – Highest revenue year since 2014
• 13% increase in distribution revenue stream

February 20. The European electronics market had what many have described as a “difficult” 2019 with only single digit growth, while the UK market fared marginally better. One of the many sectors that make up the UK marketplace, the connector industry, saw modest growth by the end of the year after a poor first half.
The first two quarters of 2019 saw connector revenues decline reflecting the weakness of the global economy and the high levels of uncertainty caused by Brexit. This according ITSA (Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association).
“It was also a reflection of UK companies adjusting their component inventories which many had built-up as a contingency against the possible consequences of Brexit” says John Biggs, Chairman of ITSA.
“In the second half of 2019, the UK connector sector stabilised as confidence returned to the market and key infrastructure projects were released.
“Against this backdrop our member companies saw a revenue growth of 5% over 2018 and enjoyed the highest revenue year since 2014. A key driver of this growth has been the increase in the distribution revenue stream which increased by 13% and now accounts for 37% of ITSA UK revenues” John Biggs adds.

Key market performance
There are several key markets for ITSA members including MIL/Aerospace, mass transportation and communications and these continue to perform in different ways. During last year, MIL/Aerospace showed a 5% decrease at component level but this was more than offset by an increase in Value Add. Despite project deferrals and Government cutbacks, this sector has continued to grow and remains a long-term focus for ITSA members.
The communications market has shown a gradual decline in revenues at component level as more and more companies focus on offering Value Add solutions. This can be seen clearly with members reporting an overall increase of 36% over 2018 but with 2019 posting the highest revenue level for Value Add since the formation of the association. Clear winners here are Fibre Optics which posted a 63% increase and RF which grew by 31%.
The mass transportation market has also grown significantly over the past five years and although members saw flat revenues in 2019 this is a very project driven market and revenue trends will continue to fluctuate.

All the above should have meant a positive 2019, however, bookings remained very weak and posted three consecutive quarters of negative book to bill ending the year at 0.93:1. This is again a reflection of organisation adjusting their demand and inventories in line with the market uncertainty.
The level of contraction being seen by ITSA members reflects well against the overall trend in UK manufacturing which has reportedly posted its weakest year for seven years

/by

ITSA Joins RoHS Umbrella Industry Project

,

October 2019 — ITSA – Interconnect Technology Suppliers Association has joined the Restriction of the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment (“RoHS”)* Umbrella Industry Project (“the Umbrella Project”)**.


John Biggs, Chairman of ITSA commented “We are delighted to announce that ITSA has joined the Umbrella Project as part of ITSA´s mission and continued efforts to provide a favourable operating environment for the benefit of interconnect technology companies and a dynamic network for exploring and co-operating on mutually beneficial opportunities. Key to ITSA and its members´ continued success is active participation in unprecedented cross-industry global initiatives and forums, such as the Umbrella Project, which enable participants to have discussions and decide any action or position the global industry wishes to adopt with regard to key matters, and influence current and future changes to standards affecting the global industry, including the continuing technical adaptations of existing Exemptions to the European Union (EU)’s RoHS Directive substance restrictions”

Bodo Eilken, Infineon Technologies & Chair of the Umbrella Project added “The Umbrella Project warmly welcomes ITSA as a new Umbrella Project partnering association. We are excited about the potential of ITSA and its members to contribute to the Umbrella Project´s discussions and work underway. We are looking forward to a fruitful cooperation with ITSA and its member companies in the journey of RoHS Exemptions’ technical adaptations, and beyond”.
Notes:
* The EU’s RoHS Directive sets the benchmark and remains the most prominent sector-specific legislation on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. It has also served as a model for similar laws introduced in multiple jurisdictions around the world and it continues to rapidly evolve, including on-going and forthcoming policy and regulatory developments requiring continued enhanced leadership, engagement and collaboration across the global industry, and beyond.
** The Umbrella Project is an unprecedented cross-industry initiative, currently involving 53 partnering industry associations globally, aimed at fostering cross-industry dialogue on the adaptation to scientific and technical progress of existing Exemptions from the RoHS Directive substance restrictions and global industry alignment on technical substitution possibilities. Where necessary, dialogues result in joint global cross industry applications to the European Commission for renewal of selected existing Exemptions, or parts thereof, under the conditions laid down in the RoHS Directive. Participants in the Umbrella Project have been key contributors to the current Directive, including the continuing Exemptions’ technical adaptations, to everyone´s benefit.

 

 

/by