June 27, 2022

3 minutes

HARTING connectors to UIC 558 standard: Robust interfaces for inter-car jumpers

HARTING is expanding its wide-ranging portfolio for railway applications with two interfaces according to UIC 558 (with inserts offering space for 13 or 18 pins, respectively) as well as an additional solution with 22 pins and a PE for inter-car jumpers. The new series offers interfaces for connecting remote control and data transmission lines to locomotive-hauled passenger trains. The lifelines of rail vehicles transmit data and signals for the remote control of lighting, the operation of door opening systems as well as the transmission of acoustic information and digital data packets.

New IP69 solution passes salt spray test over 500 hours

An important requirement of UIC 558 is that the interfaces must release automatically above a certain tensile force. This safety function causes the interface halves to separate non-destructively if two electrically connected vehicles move apart.

HARTING UIC 558 connectors are extremely robust, which is highlighted by the high protection degree of IP69 as well as a successful pass in a 500-hours salt spray test according to ASTM B117.

HARTING UIC 558 circular connector with bulkhead mounted housing

Conformity to UIC 558 means that rail vehicles using compliant interfaces are equipped sustainably and can be docked to vehicles and wagons of different ages at the same time. UIC 558 connectors provide additional safety via a mechanical as well as visual coding option that allows for fault-free operation.

The HARTING UIC 558 series also complies with all relevant railway standards. This includes IEC 61373, category 2, which stands for adequate protection against shock and vibration. The materials used also meet the fire protection requirements according to IEC 45545 (class: HL3/R23) as well as the criterion of low flammability according to UL-94 V-00.