Modular Connector complies with MIL-DTL 38999/36 standard.

Press Release Summary:




Designed for 500 coupling/release operations, Model 8D36 is used as electric interface to transmit signals between planes and onboard weapons systems, such as missiles, observation pods, or smart bombs with GPS guidance systems. With mechanical uncoupling system, unit can function at ejection speeds of over 10 m/sec with angles of incidence of up to 20° compared with the vertical axis of the connector. They are available in cadmium or nickel.




Original Press Release:



Souriau Plane/Pylon/Mission Interface = Jettisonable 38999 Connector: 8D36



June 2008-8D36 is the first connector on the market that complies with the new standard MIL-DTL 38999/36. It is designed for use as an electric interface to transmit signals between planes and onboard weapons systems, such as missiles, observation pods, or smart bombs with GPS guidance systems. It features two major innovations-an ultra-reliable mechanical uncoupling system that provides new ejection performance levels, a fully modular design that enables almost immediate umbilical cord maintenance during operations, in addition to reconfiguration of the fixing interface on the pylon, depending on the type of weapons used.

The first innovation in the new 8D36 connectors is a patented release system based on a principle of mechanical flexibility, not friction. This design does away with all risks of catching the umbilical plug or pulling it away during ejection, problems that were often encountered during operations with other connectors existing on the market. Thanks to a design that is particularly well suited to the dynamic phenomena of jettisoning, the 8D36 can function at ejection speeds of over 10 meters per second while reaching new levels of angular performance at angles of incidence of up to 20°, compared with the vertical axis of the connector.

The 8D36 connectors are fully modular by design. This provides two advantages during operations. The mechanical part of the plug (the locking ring) can be changed individually in less than two minutes, using simple tools and leaving the harness in the pylon. This avoids having to replace the whole umbilical harness if the plug is damaged, e.g. following an impact against the pylon after ejection. Secondly, it also enables users to select a ring with a suitable length of retaining cord for the load installed onboard.

8D36 connectors also provide very high levels of resistance to vibrations due to a sturdy locking system on the missile interface, and a mechanism which holds the contacts in place with metal clips. They are tested on a vibrator in sinusoidal mode with accelerations at 60g for 36 hours, and in random mode with accelerations at 44g for 16 hours.

8D36 connectors comply with the electric standard MIL-STD-1760. They are designed for 500 coupling/release operations. They are available in cadmium or nickel.

For more information, visit www.souriau.com.

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