Deutsch Pins & Sockets
What are Deutsch Pins and Sockets?
Deutsch pins and sockets are terminals that mate together and are used as part of a Deutsch environmentally sealed connection. They are for use with DTM, DT, DTP, and DTHD series connectors. They vary in size to handle wires from 20 AWG to 6 AWG. This is done in order to give operators a degree of flexibility when using Deutsch pins and sockets. By giving such a degree of flexibility they can handle a wider range of applications and various amperages to meet the needs of specific jobs. Speaking of amperages, Deutsch pins and sockets are designed to continuously handle between 7.5 to 100 amps of power depending on the size you need.
"Deutsch pins and sockets are designed to continuously handle between 7.5 to 100 amps of power depending on the size you need."
*Due to supplier issues, many of these products are currently unavailable. We will be updating this page when the availability date changes.
They are made from stamped and formed copper alloy and are nickel-plated to provide rugged durability and connectivity. This is so that they can be used in environmentally sealed connections and survive in the harsh marine environment. Commonly, you will find Deutsch pins and sockets in marine applications and industrial settings. Both of these settings require a high degree of protection. This goes to show just how durable that Deutsch pins and sockets are. So, you may be wondering; what is the difference between a pin and a socket.
What is the difference between a Deutsch pin and a Deutsch socket?
(This product is currently unavailable due to supplier issues)
The main difference between a Deutsch pin and a Deutsch socket is that one is male and the other is female. That is to say that one, the pin, is inserted into the other, the socket, in order to complete a circuit and create an electrical connection. All Deutsch pins and sockets are equipped with a small viewing window in the barrel of the terminal. This is so that an operator can see that their wire has been properly inserted before they crimp the terminal. This useful feature helps to reduce waste and save time by eliminating the chance of incorrect crimps.
Pin
Socket
What wire gauges are they built for?
As we stated above, Deutsch pins and sockets are designed to work with wire gauges ranging from 20 AWG to 6 AWG but there is more to it than just wire size. Another factor that is common to this type of terminal is contact size. The difference between contact size and wire size is that contact size refers to the opening on the end of the terminal. On the other hand, the wire size refers to the diameter of the conductor. This is important to note as contact sizes can actually vary and not always handle the same wire sizes. For example, one version of contact size 16 can be used with wire sizes 20 AWG to 16 AWG, whereas another contact size 16 can be used with 14 AWG wire. So, while paying attention to contact size is important, wire size is more important.
What protections and compliances do Deutsch pins and sockets offer?
Deutsch pins and sockets offer a range of protections and compliances including UL (Underwriters Laboratory) compliance, RoHS (Restriction of the Use of certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment ) compliance, and Ingress Protection. Deutsch pins and sockets meet Ingress Protections of IP68 and IP6K9K. For a breakdown of what that means, take a look at our blog HERE that covers Ingress Protection in depth. Rest assured that those are both high levels of protection that ensure the long life that Deutsch pins and sockets are known for. Let’s take a further look at some of the other benefits offered by these terminals.
What benefits do Deutsch pins and sockets offer?
Deutsch pins and sockets offer a range of benefits including field serviceability, easy installation, rugged durability, reliability, and longevity. Additionally, they can handle a wide variance in temperature. This coupled with the fact that they can handle a variety of amperages make them a solid choice for even the toughest applications.
Just think about the idea of field serviceability for a minute. Rather than having to cut, strip, and re-terminate wires, you can simply separate the Deutsch connector and make the needed adjustments. Once done, you would only need to reconnect the Deutsch connector. This process saves money in the long run in the form of time and labor. Another important aspect of Deutsch terminals and connectors to consider is the accessories that go with them.
Are there other accessories available for Deutsch pins and sockets?
Deutsch pins and sockets are compatible with multiple accessories including contact removal tools, connector boots, and cavity plugs. All of these items tie directly into the use of environmentally sealed connectors. The cavity plugs can be used to fill vacant slots on the body of the connectors. This helps to prevent dirt or moisture from entering the interior of the connector. The connector boots are designed to slide over the completed connection to offer an additional layer of protection from abrasion and impact. The most useful accessory however may be the contact removal tools. These contact removal tools are available in seven different sizes in order to accommodate different size contacts or wires.
All these factors just reinforce what we’ve been saying from the start. Deutsch pins and sockets are built for the toughest environments and are designed with longevity, reliability, and durability in mind. Deutsch pins and sockets are trusted in marine conditions and industrial settings which just goes to show just how tough they really are. Choosing the correct Deutsch pins and sockets for your application is not always an easy task. If you have a question about these or any of our products, contact a Pacer Group expert today.
