The new MT HSMFC (Hermetic-Sealed Multi-Fibre Circular) optical assemblies provide high system reliability in harsh environments, including extreme weather conditions, high altitudes, and high atmospheric pressure. Under these conditions, conventional monitoring and sensor equipment may fail, which can create serious communication problems.
Hermetic sealing can solve this problem, but only under certain circumstances. “Hermetic sealing of fiber optic connections has always been limited to large, single-channel applications and, until now, has not been available for high-density, multi-channel options with a reduced footprint,” explains Mark Matus, product manager for the global market at Molex. He adds, “Hermetically sealed, circular, multi-fiber MT optical assemblies, designed for critical applications where long-term system reliability in harsh environments is key, guarantee industry-leading hermetic sealing to enable maximum performance.”
Hermetically sealed, circular, multi-fiber MT optical assemblies consist of 12 to 24 fibers in a single, small-footprint connector, compared to similar products that use discrete fiber (one fiber per contact) in the connection design.
These assemblies are ideal for applications requiring optimal protection in harsh environments and under high pressure, such as in the aerospace and military sectors, mining, oil and gas exploration, industrial process control, and healthcare. They can operate in a temperature range of -40°F to 158°F (-40°C to 70°C).
Key features of hermetically sealed, circular, multi-fiber MT optical assemblies include:
• A 12- to 24-fiber flat multi-fiber MT interface offering the industry's highest fiber density in a compact, hermetically sealed interface for optimal data transmission. Therefore, HSMFC MT optical assemblies are ideal for panel configurations where space is limited.
• Sealing rating: 1 x 10⁻⁶ helium (He) cm³/sa at a differential pressure of 1 atm.
• Stainless steel connector housing, providing high durability and corrosion resistance.
• Fiber conduit protection is available for applications requiring high levels of compression resistance or extended sealing.
• Single-mode and multi-mode fiber options are available.
