Whether for satellites in orbit or along the ocean floor, the demand for connections to enable the transmission of data, signals or electrical power increases every year. In aeronautics, the onboard equipment and materials of an aircraft must be able to withstand extreme climatic and mechanical conditions, because at an altitude of 10,000m, a small failure can have critical consequences. In this kind of application, failure is not an option.
The environment to which aircraft and aeronautical equipment are exposed is harsh and subject to extreme mechanical and climatic conditions. Depending on the location of the equipment in the aircraft, at an altitude of 10,000m, the outside temperature can drop to -50°C, while the internal temperature of the engines can exceed 1,000°C and the temperature close to the engines can reach 200°C. Equipment therefore must be capable of operating correctly in these temperature ranges, which is a challenge for electrical components as well as materials such as plastics and polymers.
Souriau has been providing interconnection solutions for critical environmental applications for decades and has a reputation for reliability. It offers a wide range of solutions to meet all types of extreme environments, ensuring reliable and secure connections.
For applications in harsh environments, circular connectors are generally preferred over rectangular connectors for their ease of handling and robustness. Inside the aircraft, mechanical and climatic constraints are less stringent. However, there are other constraints, such as space (avionics) or pressure differences that require technically sophisticated solutions. In the interior and the exterior of the aircraft, reducing the total weight is a major objective for aircraft manufacturers because a lighter aircraft allows for more efficient fuel consumption. For this reason, Souriau offers thermoplastic connectors and fittings, 30% lighter and offering superior performance to aluminium.