Aviation Connector Docking | Male & Female
Aviation Connector Docking | Male & Female
Blog Article
Aviation Connector Docking (Male & Female) – Complete Guide
Aviation connectors (also called circular connectors) are widely used in aerospace, military, industrial, and automotive applications due to their rugged design, secure locking, and high reliability. Below is a breakdown of male & female aviation connector docking, including types, standards, and applications.
???? 1. Aviation Connector Types
(A) Standard Circular Connectors (MIL-DTL-5015 / EN2997)
Gender: Male (pins) & Female (sockets)
Contacts: 2 to 128 pins
Shell Material: Aluminum, stainless steel, or composite
Locking Mechanism: Threaded coupling (screw-lock)
Common Sizes:
8mm (M8) – Small sensors, IoT
12mm (M12) – Industrial Ethernet (Profinet, EtherCAT)
19mm–38mm (MIL-SPEC) – Aerospace, military
(B) MIL-DTL-38999 (High-Density, Military-Grade)
Used in: Fighter jets, missiles, avionics
Features:
Tri-Start Thread Lock (anti-vibration)
Hermetic sealing (IP68/IP69K)
Shielded for EMI/RFI protection
(C) EN3645 / AS85049 (Commercial Aviation)
Used in: Airbus, Boeing, UAVs
Key Specs:
Lightweight (composite shells)
Fire-resistant (self-extinguishing)
Quick-disconnect (bayonet locking)
???? 2. Male vs. Female Connectors
| Feature | Male Connector | Female Connector |
|---|---|---|
| Pins/Sockets | Contains pins (protruding) | Contains sockets (recessed) |
| Mating Direction | Plugs into female | Receives male connector |
| Locking Mechanism | Threaded, bayonet, or push-pull | Matches male counterpart |
| Common Use Case | Equipment side (e.g., avionics box) | Cable side (harness wiring) |
???? 3. Key Standards & Certifications
| Standard | Application | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| MIL-DTL-5015 | Military, ground vehicles | Threaded coupling |
| MIL-DTL-38999 | Aerospace, defense | High-density, EMI shielding |
| EN2997 (EU) | Industrial, rail | Metric threading |
| AS85049 (SAE) | Commercial aviation | Lightweight, fireproof |
| IP67/IP68 | Water/dust resistance | Submersible sealing |
???? 4. Docking & Mating Process
Alignment: Ensure keyway/slot matches (prevents misinsertion).
Coupling:
Threaded: Rotate clockwise until tight.
Bayonet: Push & twist 90° (quick-lock).
Locking: Secure with backshell or coupling nut.
Sealing Check: Verify O-ring compression (for waterproofing).
⚠️ Never force-mate connectors – misalignment can bend pins!
???? 5. Top Brands & Suppliers
Amphenol Aerospace (MIL-DTL-38999)
TE Connectivity (DEUTSCH connectors)
ITT Cannon (Circular Connectors)
Souriau (Eaton) (EN2997, aviation)
Lemo (Push-pull connectors)
???? 6. Applications
✔ Aircraft avionics (sensors, navigation)
✔ Military drones (UAVs)
✔ Industrial robotics (M12 Ethernet)
✔ Automotive testing (data acquisition)
✔ Oil & gas (explosion-proof versions)
???? 7. How to Order?
When selecting, specify:
Gender (Male/Female)
Pin Count (e.g., 3-pin, 19-pin)
Shell Size (e.g., M12, 25mm)
Locking Type (threaded, bayonet, push-pull)
IP Rating (e.g., IP67 for waterproofing)
Example Part Numbers:
Amphenol 97-3106A-18-5P (MIL-DTL-5015, male, 5-pin)
TE Deutsch DT04-4P (Industrial, female, 4-pin)https://store.unigulfsupply.com/product/aviation-connector-docking-male-female/