Woodhead announces Ultra-Lock connector for washdown environments

July 10, 2007
Woodhead

July 10, 2007 - Lisle, IL USA. Woodhead Industries launched a stainless steel version of the BradConnectivity Ultra-Lock Connection System, which is designed and engineered to meet the stringent sanitary requirements of food, beverage and pharmaceutical manufacturers. The threadless, M12-compatible Ultra-Lock Connection System is comprised of a series of integrated cordsets, distribution boxes and receptacles built on a patented 'push-to-lock' technology that enables fast, easy installation without turning the coupler. This positive locking feature, combined with a unique radial seal, assists in reducing downtime related to failed sensors and other control devices subjected to severe washdown.Woodhead pioneered this unique threadless connection system, which allows faster, easier and more secure connection of sensors and control devices used in plant floor automation systems, such as conveyors and robotic bottling and processing lines. Control system assemblers simply push down to connect and pull up to disconnect, which reduces assembly time and minimizes assembler fatigue. Ultra-Lock connectors stay fully mated, even under the stresses of machine vibration and cable pulls, reducing the risk of intermittent connections. Designed to Meet Plant Sanitation RequirementsAccording to John Sullivan, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Woodhead, "Our specialized stainless steel version of the Ultra-Lock System is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of high pressure sanitary washdown environments. In selecting the Ultra-Lock stainless steel connection system, these manufacturers can gain all of the unique advantages of quick disconnect technology, while still maintaining sanitation best practices."Sanitation in plant operations run by food, beverage, pharmaceutical and personal care product manufacturers are strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure the purity and safety of their products. With FDA requirements in mind, Woodhead designed its Ultra-Lock Connection System design to include the following features:

Smooth-Surfaced, Stainless Steel Couplers. The system's push-to-lock couplers are made of 316 stainless steel with a smooth surface to help prevent the accumulation of bacteria and/or contaminants on the coupler. Similarly, their secure fit and threadless design prevents the lodging of any foreign material within threaded grooves. The operator dependence inherent in traditional M12 threaded connectors/sensors is one of the main reasons why quick-connect systems have not gained wider acceptance in the food and beverage industries in the past.

IP69K Radial Seal Coupling. The typical compression seal used in threaded connectors is dependent on how tight the operator makes the connection – too loose can allow moisture to penetrate; too tight can damage the O-ring seal, which can also let in moisture and create electrical difficulties. The Ultra-Lock O-ring seal is an IP69K-rated radial seal that is operator-independent and maintains a constant pressure seal against moisture. The seals have been tested to water pressure of 1200 - 1500 psi at close range, so they can withstand the frequent equipment wash-downs typical in food and beverage plants. About Woodhead Industries Woodhead Industries, a division of Molex Incorporated, (NASDAQ: MOLX AND MOLXA), is a global developer, manufacturer and marketer of a wide array of Automation and Electrical products engineered for superior performance in demanding, harsh, or hazardous industrial environments. Woodhead Industries "Empowers the Industrial Infrastructure" with innovative products and solutions that extend from mechanical, electrical and electronics, to communications/networking devices and diagnostic software. Woodhead Industries' Brad lines of Automation products include such globally recognized names as applicom, Direct-Link, mPm, RJ-Lnxx and SST. The Woodhead family of Electrical products includes globally recognized names such as Aero-Motive, Daniel Woodhead, Watertite and Super-Safeway. Molex operates from 54 locations in 18 countries spanning North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific.

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