- Connection technology for industrial automation
- Testing & performance
Tested for performance in industrial environments
At ifm, we put our ecolink connectors through rigorous testing to ensure durability and reliability under the toughest industrial conditions. Our connectors are built to provide secure connections, long-term durability, and resistance to environmental stressors such as vibration, moisture, and chemical exposure.
ecolink connection technology is designed and tested to meet industry-leading standards, ensuring your systems run smoothly without interruptions or costly downtime.
Learn more about our extensive testing process below, and follow our installation guidelines for quick and easy integration into your manufacturing process.
Flame retardancy testing: Certified safe and reliable
To ensure compliance with modern safety standards, ifm’s ecolink connectors undergo strict flame retardancy testing, evaluating their resistance to fire and ability to maintain structural integrity under extreme conditions.
By meeting these stringent fire safety requirements, ecolink connectors provide enhanced protection and reliability in applications where safety is critical.
Exposure: 2x /1 minute per UL746C
Results: The connector does not continue to burn after the external flame source is removed. The connector remains functional after this exposure to flame.
Electrical contact testing: Engineered for longevity
Reliable electrical connections are essential in industrial automation, where consistent signal transmission and mechanical durability are critical.
ifm's ecolink connectors exceed standard requirements for contact integrity, temperature resistance, and mechanical strength, ensuring dependable performance over time. In addition to general requirements such as volume resistance, insulation resistance, electric strength, and crimp extraction forces, the number of insertion/withdrawal cycles is a key factor in determining the quality and longevity of a connector.
Exposure: 100 insertion / withdrawal cycles
Result: While standards require 0.2 Nm extraction force, ifm tests to 1.0 Nm extraction force (5x the industrial standard)
Tensile strength testing: Ensured secure, long-lasting connections
Industrial environments demand connectors that can withstand mechanical stress without failure.
ifm’s ecolink cordsets undergo rigorous tensile strength testing to ensure that the connection between the cable and housing remains secure even under extreme force.
Exposure: Pull until destruction, standard is 100 N
Result: While standards require 100 N to failure, M12 ecolink cordsets are tested to 400 N of force.
