Help With AC Connector for Induction Heating Unit

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1

Hey everyone,

I’m working on an application for an induction heating circuit. I need to find a suitable three-connection plug / jack for a connection between the capacitors and the working coil.

There is one positive and two ground connections & the resonating frequency is about 225 khz. It also draws 5 to 6 amps, max. I was wondering if someone could tell me what the best-suited (& most compact) connector would be for this purpose. Here are a few preferences:

  • Compact shape (1/2" diameter or less)

  • $3 each or less (planning on ordering 50-100)

  • 6 amps (ac) rating

I tried a 3.5mm stereo jack (3 connections) just for the hell of it, but I’m assuming the connections aren’t robust enough to handle the current. My next thought was possibly a mini xlr plug, but the ones I’ve seen are a little bulkier than I’d like (larger than .5" diameter & a little long), and somewhat expensive (more than $3). Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance.

http://i61.tinypic.com/33n7pr8.png

2

There’s about a million connectors that will work. 225 KHz can be considered “low frequency” enough that you don’t have to worry about impedance for short cables (a few feet). Molex makes a lot of multi-pin connectors that can handle high current. However, you’re going to have to look hard to get one in a 1/2" diameter package. Have you thought about quick disconnect terminals? You can get them with a full cover, and also polarize them by mixing the male/female terminals.