What are MIL-DTL-22992?

Meet the Connector: MIL-DTL-22992 Connectors

MIL-DTL-22992 connectors are the largest heavy-duty cylindrical connectors used for high-power military and industrial applications. The MIL-DTL-22992 military specification defines its interface, materials, performance, and environmental resistance.

The 22992 connector features threaded coupling for secure connections and has high resistance to moisture, shock, and vibration, making it suitable for harsh environment military, aerospace, and industrial applications. It is widely used in battlefield power distribution, generators, and industrial equipment.

Amphenol Class L 22992 high-power, heavy duty electrical connectors are the largest cylindrical Amphenol power connectors available.

Commercial Class

A commercial equivalent of the MIL-Spec DTL-22992 exists with a similar form factor and interface. It is physically compatible with the Class L version. However, the commercial version is produced and tested to less rigorous standards. These connectors may be made from materials that are sufficient for industrial or commercial environments but might not have the same high-performance attributes (such as extreme temperature or environmental resistance) as the military-grade version.

Amphenol Commercial Class L heavy duty power connectors are the commercial equivalent of the MIL-DTL-22992 qualified connectors.

Design Notes

Standardization:
MIL-DTL-22992 was standardized by the U.S. Department of Defense in 1975. It has undergone several revisions; the most recent, Revision H with Amendment 4, was published on April 10, 2024. It is scheduled for review in 2029.

Key Features:

• High Power Handling – MIL-DTL-22992 connectors are used for high-current applications, often rated from 40A to 200A or more.
• Durability – Built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including moisture, vibration, and extreme temperatures.
• Shell Styles – Available in shell sizes 12 thr Class L (large, heavy-duty for power distribution) and other variations, including a quick wire locking version.
• Threaded Coupling – Ensures a secure connection in demanding environments.
• Sealed Design – Often waterproof to IP67 for outdoor and battlefield use.
• Voltage & Current Ratings – Typically up to 40-200A and 600V.

• Frequency Range: DC to 40 GH
• Temperature Range: –55 °C to +125 °C

• Impedance:50 Ohm

• High Mating Cycle Endurance: Typically designed to withstand a significant number of mating and unmating cycles, ensuring performance consistency over time.
• Resistance to Environmental Stress: Rigorously tested for resistance to shock, vibration, moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures, making them suitable for military and industrial applications.
• Secure Coupling Mechanisms: Features such as threaded or locking connectors help maintain a reliable connection, even under dynamic conditions and high mechanical stress.

Amphenol Pcd offers a ruggedized heavy duty cable assembly for the 22992 interface.

Markets and Applications

Military and Aerospace, Industrial

MIL-DTL-22992 connectors are used for power distribution in armored vehicles, tanks, and aircraft; field-deployable electrical systems; and heavy machinery in Industrial as well as military applications.

Suppliers

Amphenol Aerospace, Amphenol Pcd, Mouser Electronics (Glenair), Conesys

Related products:

MIL-DTL-38999
EN3645 and EN3646 
MIL-DTL-5015
MIL-DTL-28840

Like this article? Check out our other Meet the Connector and Connector Basics articles, our Military and Aerospace Market Page, and our 2024 and 2025 Article Archives. 

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