Find product HS Code and trade information for electrical connector

Electrical Connector

An electrical connector is an electromechanical device used to join two or more electrical circuits together. They provide a convenient means of creating temporary or permanent electrical connections, enabling the flow of power and signals between components.

Materials

Connectors are constructed from a variety of materials chosen for conductivity, mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, and cost. Common materials include:

• Metals:
  • Copper Alloys: Brass, bronze, beryllium copper – favored for excellent conductivity and machinability. Often plated with other metals for corrosion protection.
  • Steel: Used for housings and locking mechanisms, providing strength and durability.
  • Aluminum: Lighter weight alternative, suitable for certain applications, especially in power connectors.
  • Gold: Used as a plating material for high-reliability contacts, providing excellent corrosion resistance and conductivity, particularly in low-signal applications.
  • Silver: Similar to gold, used for high conductivity and corrosion resistance.
• Plastics:
  • Thermoplastics: Polycarbonate, nylon, ABS – used for housings, insulators, and strain relief.
  • Thermosets: Phenolic, epoxy – provide higher temperature resistance and strength.
• Insulating Materials: Various polymers, ceramics, and rubbers used to prevent short circuits and ensure electrical isolation.

Purpose & Function

The primary functions of electrical connectors are:

• Current Carrying Capacity: To reliably conduct electrical current from one component to another without excessive heat buildup or voltage drop.
• Signal Transmission: To transmit electrical signals (data, control signals, power) with minimal loss or interference.
• Mechanical Support: To provide a secure and stable connection, resisting vibration, shock, and pull forces.
• Environmental Protection: To protect the connection from moisture, dust, and other contaminants.
• Ease of Connection/Disconnection: To facilitate easy assembly and disassembly for maintenance or replacement.

Usage Scenarios

Electrical connectors are ubiquitous across numerous industries and applications:

• Power Distribution: Connecting power supplies to equipment, wiring buildings, automotive electrical systems.
• Data Communication: Connecting computers, networking devices, peripherals (USB, Ethernet, HDMI).
• Audio/Video Systems: Connecting speakers, microphones, displays, and other multimedia components.
• Automotive: Connecting sensors, actuators, lighting, and other vehicle components.
• Aerospace: Connecting avionics systems, sensors, and power distribution networks.
• Industrial Automation: Connecting sensors, actuators, controllers, and other industrial equipment.
• Medical Devices: Connecting sensors, power supplies, and control systems in medical equipment.

Common Types

A wide variety of connector types exist, each designed for specific applications and requirements:

• Wire-to-Wire Connectors: Connect two or more wires together. Examples include:
  • Crimp Connectors: Utilize crimping to create a secure connection.
  • Twist-on Connectors (Wire Nuts): Simple, screw-type connectors.
  • Push-in Connectors: Quick and easy connection without tools.
• Board-to-Board Connectors: Connect two printed circuit boards (PCBs). Examples include:
  • Header Connectors: Male connectors that plug into female receptacles.
  • Edge Connectors: Connect directly to the edge of a PCB.
  • Ribbon Connectors: Connect flexible ribbon cables to PCBs.
• Power Connectors: Designed for higher current and voltage applications. Examples include:
  • IEC Connectors: Standardized connectors for power supplies and equipment.
  • Barrel Connectors: Common for low-voltage DC power supplies.
  • Blade Connectors: High-current connectors used in automotive and industrial applications.
• RF Connectors: Designed for radio frequency signals. Examples include:
  • BNC Connectors: Common for coaxial cables.
  • SMA Connectors: Used for high-frequency applications.
  • N-Type Connectors: Used for high-power RF applications.
• Data Connectors: Designed for transmitting data signals. Examples include:
  • USB Connectors: Universal Serial Bus connectors for data and power.
  • Ethernet Connectors (RJ45): Connect network devices.
  • HDMI Connectors: High-Definition Multimedia Interface connectors for audio and video.
• Circular Connectors: Robust connectors with a circular housing, providing secure and reliable connections in harsh environments.

The choice of connector type depends on factors such as current rating, voltage, frequency, signal type, environmental conditions, and cost.

Electrical connectors fall under several classifications based on their specific function and application. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes based on the provided information:

• 8536100020: This HS code covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits (for example, switches, relays, fuses, surge suppressors, plugs, sockets, lamp-holders and other connectors, junction boxes), for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V; specifically, glass cartridge fuses. The total tax rate is 57.7%, comprised of a 2.7% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 8536490080: This HS code also covers electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits (for example, switches, relays, fuses, surge suppressors, plugs, sockets, lamp-holders and other connectors, junction boxes), for a voltage not exceeding 1,000 V; specifically, relays categorized as "Other Other: Other: Other". The total tax rate is 57.7%, comprised of a 2.7% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff effective April 2, 2025.
• 3926909987: This HS code covers other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914; specifically, other rigid tubes or pipes suitable for use as electrical conduit. The total tax rate is 42.8%, comprised of a 5.3% base tariff and a 7.5% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% effective April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that the applicable HS code depends on the specific type of electrical connector. For example, a glass cartridge fuse would be classified under 8536100020, while a plastic conduit would be classified under 3926909987.