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Unread 11-03-2003, 21:10
Unsung FIRST Hero
Al Skierkiewicz Al Skierkiewicz is offline
Broadcast Eng/Chief Robot Inspector
AKA: Big Al WFFA 2005
FRC #0111 (WildStang)
Team Role: Engineer
 
Join Date: Jun 2001
Rookie Year: 1996
Location: Wheeling, IL
Posts: 10,792
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As Dave has related above, we do not use the supplied connector. We use a similar Anderson product that is rated for 100 amps. The connector comes in pieces, the contact and a housing, that can be assembled in multiple contacts. When making the assy, the wire is first crimped into the contact and then soldered. All critical electrical connections are soldered.
Now before you get too worried, many teams use the supplied connector without problems. Although the connector is rated for 50 amps, it is used for short durations above it's design rating. Teams should check the connector, periodically for heating damage, bent contacts, or mating misalignment. The melting shown in DJ's pic above is unusual, but obviously does occur. I would ask DJ to elaborate on the conditions under which the failure occurred. Was it after a long practice session or while testing a new design, etc. If there is care taken in making the wiring between the battery and the main breaker then the breaker will adequately protect the battery and the robot from damage. With that said, a tywrap is good insurance for preventing the connector from coming apart, however there are better solutions. The velcro is a good one because it allows quick change of the battery during finals matches. You can't beat a secure battery mount, however, with short wires that are tied in place. The connector does not take any stress if all the wiring is secure no matter how hard the robot is hit or even if it turns over.
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Good Luck All. Learn something new, everyday!
Al
WB9UVJ
www.wildstang.org
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Storming the Tower since 1996.