MIL-DTL-38999 & Circular Series
What Are the Key Features of MIL-DTL-38999 Series III Circular Connectors?
MIL-DTL-38999 Series III Key Features
MIL-DTL-38999 Series III is the most widely used high-performance circular connector family in military aerospace and defense applications. It offers an optimal balance of performance, durability, and versatility.
Core Features
- Threaded Coupling: Triple-start threaded coupling provides secure mating with full 360° EMI shielding and excellent vibration resistance. The coupling mechanism ensures reliable performance in high-vibration environments including fighter aircraft and missile systems.
- Scoop-Proof Design: Rear-release contact retention system prevents contact damage during unmated handling. The scoop-proof design is critical for blind-mating applications.
- Environmental Sealing: Standard connectors provide environmental sealing to IP67 when mated. Fluorosilicone and Viton gasket options extend chemical resistance for fuel and hydraulic fluid exposure.
- Wide Contact Range: Available in shell sizes 9 through 25, supporting 3 to 128 contacts. Contact sizes range from #22D (signal) to #8 (power/coax), with mixed-layout insert arrangements.
Performance Specifications
- Operating Temperature: -65°C to +200°C
- Vibration: 23.4g random vibration (2 hours per axis)
- Shock: 300g, 3ms half-sine
- Salt Spray: 500 hours (cadmium plating)
- Mating Cycles: 500 minimum
- Current Rating: 5A to 46A depending on contact size
Plating Options
Available in cadmium olive drab (standard), electroless nickel, zinc nickel (RoHS compliant), and passivated stainless steel. Zinc nickel plating provides 500+ hours salt spray resistance while meeting RoHS and REACH requirements.
Raineon Series III Offering
Raineon manufactures MIL-DTL-38999 Series III connectors in all standard shell sizes and insert arrangements, with custom configurations available. Our connectors are fully intermateable with Amphenol, TE/DEUTSCH, and Souriau equivalents.
Related Products: