Autoclavable & Sterilizable Product Roundup

By AJ Born | June 11, 2024

This week’s Product Roundup highlights autoclavable and sterilizable connectors from leading connector manufacturers and suppliers.

Autoclavable & Sterilizable Connectors

Fischer Connectors Fischer Core Series offers sterilizable connectivity solutions including brass, stainless steel, and plastic 405 models, which are autoclavable and compatible with other sterilization methods such as Cidex, EtO, gamma radiation, Steris, or Sterrad. The Fischer Core Series Disposable model is sterilizable using EtO and gamma methods. Notably, both metal and plastic connectors, as well as cable assemblies, are autoclavable, contributing to a lower total cost of ownership by withstanding up to 1,000 autoclave cycles. Connectors labeled as sterile or aseptic need to be securely sealed to protect their electrical functionality during sterilization processes from the effects of pressurized steam, radiation, and chemicals. Autoclaves, using highly pressurized steam at temperatures of 250 °F (121 °C), effectively eliminate microorganisms during cycles typically lasting 30 minutes. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a shorter cycle of 13 minutes at 273 °F (134 °C). Connectors and cable assemblies must be adequately sealed to resist the repeated ingress of steam under at least 15 psi of pressure over multiple sterilization cycles. To ensure the safety of their electrical functions during this high-temperature sterilization process, medical devices and equipment require connectors and cables that can withstand these extreme temperatures.

The ODU Medi-Snap supplied by Avnet is a plastic circular connector with miniature push-pull locking design. In addition to being autoclavable and sterilizable, they feature versatile coding possibilities, light weight, and high chemical resistance. With 2,000+ mating cycle durability, simple assembly, customizable capabilities, touch-proof housing, a unique right-angle plug option, multiple coding options through color or keying, and customized cable assembly integrated solutions, ODU Medi-Snap is well-suited for medical, industrial, and Test & Measurement applications. The connectors are RoHS compliant and have an IP67 rating.

D Series from Smiths Interconnect delivers industry-leading performance featuring simple push-button latching and a “D” shaped flange which makes mating orientation obvious. Three D Series sizes accommodate a wide variety of applications. The intuitive and durable D Series is recognized for its ease of use and high reliability. Autoclavable versions are available.

CDM Electronics supplies THORKOM connectors, backshells, and accessories made of UL 94V-2 approved, high-temperature resistant thermoplastic specifically for use in autoclaving processes and sterile applications. Screw-machined gold over copper alloy contacts optimize performance while maintaining mechanical integrity through autoclave cycles. Available in 7-, 12-, and 24-pin configurations in multiple mounting formats.

REDEL 2P High Voltage connectors from LEMO, supplied by Powell Electronics, are an ideal solution for medical and industrial applications. They are available in 2, 5, and 8 contact configurations and are sterilizable by gas or by steam. Building on the 2P series legacy in medical applications, these new insert configurations work for high-voltage PFA (pulsed-field ablation) and PEF (pulsed electrical field) catheter technologies.

Amphenol Alden’s Pulse-Lok connectors from PEI-Genesis offer a secure, lightweight, and cost-effective alternative to traditional metal connectors. Their unique locking system provides visual, tactile, and audible confirmation, ensuring quick-release and secure connections without added mating force. Ideal for medical, automation, and instrumentation fields, these connectors support various contact types, including signal, power, high voltage, and Ethernet. A sterilization version is available.

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AJ Born

Associate Editor at ConnectorSupplier.com

AJ (Amy J.) Born first landed in the engineering space writing and editing for IEEE GlobalSpec (Engineering360.com). In addition to engineering, her published articles cover topics as diverse as HVAC, small business, mental health, and spirituality/personal growth. At Connector Supplier AJ combines her writing and marketing expertise as associate editor. She has a bachelor’s degree in English from the University at Buffalo and an MBA from the University of Colorado Boulder. AJ can be reached at [email protected].