October 7, 2023

What are the Different Types of Deutsch Connectors?

Deutsch connectors are a type of electrical connectors known for their durable and reliable connections even in harsh/challenging weather conditions. They feature a rugged thermoplastic housing (usually a plug and receptacle) and oxidation-resistant terminals. Also, Deutsch connectors come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, accommodating different wire gauges, thus making them versatile options for connectors.
Before exploring the various types of Deutsch connectors, let’s briefly look into their application across different industries:

A. Automotive

This is one industry where Deutsch connectors are commonly used in various systems, including engines, lighting, PCBs, etc.

B. Industrial Machinery

Deutsch connectors are used to make connections for motors, sensors, and controllers of different industrial machinery and heavy-duty equipment. Thanks to their robust/rugged nature, they withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibration.

C. Marine Vessels

Deutsch connectors are known to make reliable and waterproof connections, thus making them an ideal choice for making connections in marine vessels.

D. Aerospace

Deutsch connectors are quite common in parts of electrical systems of aircraft and related pieces of equipment.

Types of Deutsch connectors

There are many types of Deutsch connectors categorized in various series/lines. Usually, each of them is based on their housing design, wire gauge, amperage (AMP) rating, and contact size. They include:

1. DT Connectors

The DT series is the most common type of Deutsch connector. It uses size 16 contacts, accepts 14 to 20 AWG wires, and is rated 13 AMPs. DT series connectors come in 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 12 cavity configurations. The DT series connectors are often used for low to average amperage connections like in solenoids.
An excellent example of reliable and versatile DT connectors is the IWISS Deutsch DT Connector Kit. It comes with size 16 solid contacts A-Keyway Connector in 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 & 12 pin configurations.

2. DTM Connectors

The DTM series connector is smaller than the DT line, and the “M” stands for “Miniature.” It uses size 20 contacts, which accepts 14 to 22 AWG wire. It’s rated at 7.5 AMPs and comes with 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 and 12 cavity configurations. These Deutsch connectors are commonly used for low-amperage connections like sensors.

3. DTP Connectors

The DTP series connector is larger than the DT and DTM series counterparts. The “P” in DTP connectors stands for “Power.” It uses size 12 contacts, which accepts 10 to 14 AWG wire. It’s rated at 25 AMPs and comes in 2 and 4-cavity configurations. As the name suggests, DTP series connectors are best for high-amperage connections like fuel pumps, fans, heaters, etc.

4. DTHD Connectors

The DTHD series or the DT heavy-duty connectors are built larger than the above three and are meant to handle higher amperage. It uses size 4, 8, and 12 contacts, which accept 6 to 14 AWG wires. They’re rated from 25 to 100 AMPs and come in a single cavity arrangement. DTHD series connectors are commonly used to create connections for heavy-duty equipment, particularly in mining, construction, and marine industries.

5. DRC Series connectors

DRC series connectors are rated 7.5 to 13 AMP. They use size 16 and 20 contacts and accept 14 to 22 AWG wire. DRC series connectors come in in-line, circuit board, or flange mounts. They offer 24, 38, 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 cavity configurations. These connectors are used in various applications where multiple-size contacts in a single shell are needed, for instance, in car transmissions, PCUs, robots, etc.

Conclusion

Deutsch connectors are versatile, easy to use, reliable (minimized electrical failure), and last longer. Each type of series of Deutsch connectors suits specific connection needs; thus, you should know the exact series you require when selecting one. That’s where factors such as current capacity and connector size matter.
Also, to make Deutsch connections, you’ll need unique tools like the iCrimp Deutsch Connectors Crimping Tool Kit, which has solid & stamped terminal crimpers and a wedgelock removal tool.