Mixed flowing gas might sound like something you would experience at the local pub after a night of free spicy nachos to all patrons.
However, in this case, we are talking about a specialized test that was developed in response to dissatisfaction with similar corrosion tests that were commonly used on connectors.
Why test for Mixed Flowing Gas?
Mixed Flowing Gas (MFG) is used to evaluate a connector’s performance under a simulated storage or operating conditions it may experience during its use. It is also used to measure the effect of plating degradation from those environmental factors.
Through testing a connector with MFG, you will know how the performance will be effected in the field, and it will show if the materials used in the connector will fail due to oxidation or corrosion.
How is it tested?
MFG involves exposing a connector set to the gases Sulfur Dioxide, Chlorine, Hydrogen Sulfide, and Nitrogen Dioxide in a chamber. The test uses a Class IIA mix of gas that is flowed around the part / parts for 14 days (7 days unmated / 7 days mated).
The test is conducted in a specialized chamber, shown below, in which the parts are exposed to the gases where the humidity and temperature are controlled by the chamber.
As with many tests, Low Level Contact Resistance (LLCR), is used to pass or fail the parts. LLCR is performed before and after being exposed to MFG in order to determine the effects on the connectors.
Samtec tests MFG on connectors using EIA-364-65 “Mixed Flowing Test Procedure for Electrical Connectors, Contacts and Sockets.”
Samtec publishes all of its reports on www.samtec.com and can be found according to the series pages.
To see the qualification test report for the Mixed Flowing Gas test results for the SEAM/SEAF series please click here, or type in the series name of the part you are interested in on www.samtec.com.