Ifm electronic has developed a technology that allows M8 connections to be protected to IP67, IP68 and IP69K for the first time. Usually, M8 connectors cannot be used in wet areas because of their poor sealing. They also lack shock and vibration resistance.

Ifm’s ecolink technology is based on a patented profiled sealing ring which fits precisely against the inner surface and front of the plug to provide an even contact pressure and to allow the high protection ratings using manual tightening. A metal ring with a saw-tooth edge protects the coupling nut against unwanted loosening caused by shock or vibration. The new connectors will work with any standard M8 plug.

Ifm has developed a similar technology for M12 connectors and at the recent Hannover Fair was showing a range of bus connection modules that link AS-i flat cables to four or eight M12 connectors in various combinations. An end-stop integrated into the ecolink M12 connectors protects the O-rings from damage caused by over-tightening the nuts. The O-ring is always correctly compressed without needing a torque wrench, and provides protection to IP67.