Staubli Electrical Connectors, a global leader in PV cable couplers, has introduced a new product family of large-format PV cable connectors called BosCon. These connectors are the first to be fully cULus listed to UL6703 and CSA C22.2 182.5, “Connectors for use in Photovoltaic Systems.” They are designed for carrying high current in harsh and outdoor environments in the PV energy and EV industries, addressing a crucial need in the North American market.
Until now, the North American PV industry has lacked certified-safe connectors for large-diameter, high-power trunk cables used in large-scale applications exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. BosCon connectors are specifically designed for electrical balance of systems (eBOS) trunk cables, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and EV charging systems.
“We designed the BosCon line to help address a need within the North American PV market to make large-format cable connections both as pre-made leads by harness suppliers and by installers in the field,” said Brian Mills, Head of Renewable Energy with Staubli. “In doing so, the new connectors ensure safety and reliability while simplifying installation and maintenance.”
The full BosCon line is designed to confidently seal, strain relieve, and terminate with both low (Class B) and high strand count, low and high flexible Copper PV cable. It features a unique coding system with seven different mechanically-keyed and color-coded rings on both the socket and plug ends, which can be determined at the time of assembly. This helps prevent the significant risks associated with cross-mating of poles and/or phases, which can be potentially catastrophic.
The new connectors are fully cULus listed for both factory and field installation with 3/0 AWG through 500 MCM Copper cables with a maximum ampacity rating of 620 A at 1500V AC/DC. The BosCon OPC16 is not only designed to handle large trunk cables in utility-scale systems but can also be used in the effective design and installation of EV storage/charging systems thanks to its AC and DC rating at 1500 V.
In the coming months, Staubli will introduce additional products, including solutions for combiner boxes, panel receptacles, central inverters, and more. This will be followed by the launch of two more couplers (Ø10mm and Ø21mm) that will further expand the application range.
Staubli will showcase the BosCon at RE+ this year at the Anaheim Convention Center, September 9-12, at booth #D30059. “Just ask about the new BosCon connector,” said Mills, “and one of our connector experts will be able to explain the benefits and the capabilities of this exciting new addition to our product portfolio.”
About Staubli
Staubli is a global industrial and mechatronic solution provider with four dedicated Divisions: Electrical Connectors, Fluid Connectors, Robotics, and Textile, serving customers who aim to increase their productivity in various industrial sectors. Staubli currently operates in 28 countries, with agents in 50 countries across four continents. Its global workforce of 6,000 shares a commitment to partnering with customers in nearly every industry to provide comprehensive solutions with long-term support. Originally founded in 1892 as a small workshop in Horgen/Zurich, Switzerland, today Staubli is an international Group headquartered in Pfäffikon, Switzerland.
