PEEK grade simplifies aircraft electrical connector installationPEEK grade simplifies aircraft electrical connector installation

Amphenol PCD (Beverly, MA) has specified Victrex (Thornton Cleveleys, UK) PEEK polymer for a lightweight, assembly-optimized aerospace connector, resulting in a 9% weight savings compared to its predecessor.

"Instead of installing several metal retention clips separately, a one-piece Victrex PEEK retention clip is used to make the [assembly] process much easier and more efficient for the assembly teams," says Tony Padula, Product Manager for Amphenol PCD. Reducing the time it takes to install components is a key selling point for any newly designed aerospace part.

"With several hundred electrical connectors aboard each plane, potential fuel savings can also be quite significant," says Harald Hedderich, Aerospace Strategic Marketing Manager for Victrex Polymer Solutions. "At a time when cost savings are extremely important to the aerospace industry, our polymers help deliver substantial weight reductions which ultimately lead to lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions."

Amphenol has also performed tests on Victrex PEEK polymers to verify that it was a reliable material for various aerospace environments. "For instance, we have tested the material in 70°C hydraulic fluid for 1,000 hours and were pleased with the durability of the material," explains Padula. "Proving that Victrex PEEK could thrive in these harsh conditions gave us the confidence to specify this material in our designs." The thermoplastic connectors not only eliminate the need for anti-corrosion treatments, but are non-conductive as well, improving the electrical integrity of the connector. Electrical integrity is paramount as the ground block connectors are used to secure and fasten electrical wiring that is critical to the aircraft.