Connectorised Penetrators

In recent decades there has been a shift towards modular platform builds to increase manufacturing flexibility. This approach sometimes calls for connectorised penetrators.

If the connectorisation is inside the hull, it can make maintenance and replacement very much easier and cheaper but operational preference is to have the connectors external to the pressure hull.

Regardless, the reliability of the harness is dependent on the sealing of the connector to the cable as well as the effectiveness of the mating parts.

External Hull Penetrators

Maintaining the integrity of a submarine’s pressure hull is critical to protecting the life of the crew, as well as maintaining its operational capacity. The boat’s cable system is its central nervous system, delivering data and power to and from the command centre to the platform’s extremities. Wherever that cable system passes through the pressure hull, a potential weakness is created. SMI have a range of Pressure Hull Glands and connectorised penetrators for all applications.

High quality thermoplastic mouldings

SMI has worked with a number of manufacturers of penetrators and connectors, optimising the performance of each by terminating cables with thermoplastic mouldings that deliver connector extended life. Mouldings can also be used to bring multiple cables to the rear of a connector in a way that traditional end bells and boots cannot.

As an integration specialist, SMI is able to choose the most appropriate connector technology and optimise it for deployment in the most challenging situations. We regularly work with connectors from Gisma, Souriau, Teledyne, TE, Amphenol and Glenair, amongst others, and can configure bespoke inserts to shells where an off-the-shelf solution is unavailable.

SMI’s Range of Connectorised Penetrators

Our moulding technology enables multiple cables to be presented to a single connector. Sealing and water blocking of individual cables protects services whereby damage to one cable does not result in the loss of all functionality. Where our dual jacket PlastEthUrm technology is employed we can offer a 10 year warranty against leaks.

Designed for long-term underwater operations in submarines and other military vessels for depths up to 10,000m. To ensure maximum operating safety, outboard connectors have three independently-operating sealing systems in the mating area (O-ring, lip seal and conical sealing). Shock and vibration safety is ensured by the fine screw-thread in the locking sleeve.

From single contact to 265 pins and current ratings up to 400A, we can cover a wide range of applications with more than 350 variants. Additional cathodic protection technology protects the plugs and polyethylene mouldings ensure decades of reliable performance.

Contact us today to find out more about our connectorised penetrators.