New 270Vdc contactor technology improves performance and lowers costs

A new family of low-cost 270Vdc contactors, featuring the exclusive EPIC™ (Extended Performance Impervious Ceramic) sealing technology, has been introduced by Leach International for use in weight- and size-sensitive, high-voltage aerospace applications.

Produced through a joint effort between Leach International, an Esterline Corporation component and equipment manufacturer, and GIGAVAC, today's expert in high voltage relays, these new 270Vdc contactors solve the performance and weight problems of current high-voltage contactor requirements yet are less expensive than ceramic versions.

By utilizing a thin ceramic header welded to a can with high-temperature plastics inside for arc management, the EPIC contactor requires no thick layer of epoxy yet has a seal sufficient to contain high-pressure gases such as hydrogen for optimum switching performance. The result is a high-performance 270Vdc contactor that is less than half the weight and one-tenth the cost of an all-ceramic contactor.

The EPIC contactor is rated at 175°C, but tests have shown the header can reach well over 250°C without damage or failure, providing a reduced risk of contactor failure or fire. In addition, the thinner ceramic seal offers more room inside for auxiliary contacts and an internally contained coil economizer, if needed.

Designed for electrical systems that are used to replace maintenance-intensive hydraulic and pneumatic systems on aircraft, the new 270Vdc EPIC contactor meets all military and aerospace standards. The first vehicle to use the new contactors will be an unmanned air vehicle (UAV), and other potential applications range from space,aircraft and missiles and to naval ships or a hybrid Humvee for the U.S. Army.