L-coded and K-coded M12 connectors meet the increasing energy requirements of compact devices and transmit more than 10 times the power of previous solutions, while retaining the same size. They provide up to 7.5 kW supply power in the most compact of spaces - more than enough for compact, decentralised applications in all sectors of the AES. M12 circular connectors are a common standard in many industrial applications when it comes to the robust connection of data and power. Given their international IEC standardisation, PNO conformity and widespread use, they represent an ideal foundation for industrial applications.
Devices and drives in industrial applications are becoming increasingly powerful, while retaining the same dimensions as before. These performance gains are also reflected in the consumption of electrical power, which must be connected by way of a suitable interface. HARTING is meeting this challenge of enabling existing, familiar connection sizes to elevate performance with robust, internationally standardised M12
X-times the power
M12 connectors are a well established interface for the transmission of signals, data and power in industrial applications. The power supply for devices was limited to around 100 W with the existing A, B and D codes. With the K-coded and L-coded connector faces, the M12 size meets the requirements of the AES – thereby offering several kW of transmission power (up to 7.5 kW) in the most compact of spaces. This boosts the possible transmission power in a compact size by orders of magnitude.
In detail:
The 5-pole L-coded connectors can handle an output of 0.75 kW at 16 A in the extra-low voltage range – making the L-coded version highly suitable for field distributor boxes, fieldbus-controlled I/O boxes, power supply units and valve applications. Sub-distribution networks with 24V or 48V working voltage also feature as typical utilisation scenarios. The PNO (ProfiBus user organisation) regards the L-coded M12 Power as the new standard device connection for the power supply of field devices.
K-coded
The 5-pole K-coded connectors transmit up to 630 V and 12 A – covering the typical connection parameters of three-phase motors in the kW range (up to 7.5 kW) – which account for the lion's share of the systems.
Cable assembly or field connection
On the cable side, HARTING is offering field-assembly HARAX® insulation displacement connectors (IDC) and crimp connectors for straight pin and socket versions, featuring a 360-degree hood concept. Consequently, HARTING's M12 connectors are meeting market requirements that extend well beyond the specifications of the relevant IEC 61076-2-111 standard.
Jonas Diekmann
Position: Technical editor
- Department: Global Product Management
- Company: HARTING Electronics GmbH
