YF6A-21ZJ or TK Separation (Breakaway) Electrical Connector

YF6A-21ZJ/TK Separation (Breakaway) Electrical Connector | Miniaturized with High‑Low Frequency Hybrid Contacts

The YF6A‑21ZJ/TK Separation Connector series combines miniaturization with hybrid signal transmission capability in a single, rugged breakaway interface. Featuring 20 low‑frequency 22D contacts (3 A) and one 12# coaxial contact for RF, video, or high‑speed data, this connector meets the demanding requirements of modern aerospace and defense systems where space is at a premium but signal integrity cannot be compromised. With a calibrated separation force of 15–25 N, solder termination, and proven resistance to severe vibration and shock, the YF6A‑21 delivers reliable performance in umbilical disconnects, stage separation, and emergency release applications. When your system demands both density and diversity in a separation interface, the YF6A‑21 series is the answer.

Product Descriptions from the Supplier

The YF6A‑21ZJ/TK Separation (Breakaway) Electrical Connector is a compact, high‑density interconnect solution designed for applications requiring both low‑frequency signal circuits and coaxial transmission within a single separation interface. Fully compliant with enterprise standard Q/21EJ275, this connector features 20 size‑22D contacts rated at 3 A each for discrete signals, plus one 12# coaxial contact for RF, video, or high‑speed data transmission. This hybrid configuration eliminates the need for separate RF connectors, saving valuable space and weight in tight installations.

All contacts are terminated via solder cups, a reliable, field‑serviceable method that ensures secure connections without specialized tooling. The mechanical separation mechanism is calibrated to release with a force of 15–25 N, providing a secure hold during operation while ensuring positive separation when commanded.

Engineered for harsh environments, the YF6A‑21 operates from -55 °C to +125 °C and survives severe dynamic conditions: random vibration of 0.3 G²/Hz (20 Grms), sinusoidal vibration of 150 m/s² for 20 minutes, shock of 735 m/s² (6 ms duration), and constant acceleration of 30 g. With a mechanical life of 500 mating cycles, these connectors are suitable for both ground testing and operational reuse.

The coaxial contact is rated for a withstand voltage of 250 V AC rms under humid conditions (versus 500 V for standard contacts), reflecting its specialized role in signal transmission. Insulation resistance remains >1000 MΩ at room temperature, >500 MΩ at temperature extremes, and >20 MΩ after humidity and rain exposure.

Available in two configurations:

• YF6A‑21TK: Plug with socket contacts
• YF6A‑21ZJ: Receptacle with pin contacts

Typical applications include umbilical disconnects on launch vehicles, avionics separation interfaces, UAV tether release, and any system requiring a mix of signal and coaxial connections in a breakaway package.

Specifications

Applications

• Aerospace Launch Vehicles: Umbilical disconnects with mixed signal and video/data lines.
• Missile Systems: Guidance and control interfaces requiring RF transmission.
• Unmanned Vehicles: UAV tether release with video downlink.
• Avionics: Separation interfaces between cockpit and ejectable modules.
• Naval Systems: Torpedo guidance links, buoy data transmission.
• Industrial: High‑speed data disconnects in harsh environments.

Functionality

• Hybrid Contact Set: 20× 22D (3 A) low‑frequency contacts plus 1× 12# coaxial contact for RF/video/data.
• Controlled Separation Force: Calibrated 15–25 N breakaway ensures secure hold yet positive release.
• Solder Termination: Reliable, field‑serviceable connections for all contact types.
• Miniaturized Design: High contact density in a compact footprint—ideal for space‑constrained applications.
• Environmental Robustness: Withstands extreme temperature, vibration, shock, and acceleration.
• Coaxial Capability: Supports high‑frequency signals up to specified limits (contact factory for detailed RF performance).

Key Features​​​​​​​

• High‑Low Frequency Hybrid: One connector handles both discrete signals and coaxial transmission—eliminates separate RF connectors.
• Miniaturized Package: 21 contacts in a compact shell saves space and weight.
• Calibrated Separation Force: 15–25 N range suits light‑duty separation requirements.
• Solder Termination: Simple, reliable, and field‑serviceable without special tooling.
• Aerospace‑Grade Qualification: Tested to rigorous vibration, shock, and acceleration standards.
• 500‑Cycle Life: Suitable for ground testing and multiple mission uses.
• Wide Temperature Range: -55 °C to +125 °C suits both space and airborne environments.
• Rain & Humidity Resistant: Maintains >20 MΩ insulation after exposure.

Custom Design

The YF6A platform can be adapted to meet unique mission requirements:

• Custom Contact Mix: Adjust the number of 22D and coaxial contacts, or add other sizes/types.
• Separation Force Adjustment: Modify the breakaway force for specific release requirements.
• Coaxial Specifications: Tailor impedance, frequency range, or dielectric materials.
• Special Materials: Select shell finishes for enhanced corrosion resistance or specific conductivity.
• Cable Assembly Integration: Complete harness solutions with coaxial cable termination and overmolding.
• Non‑Standard Testing: Additional screening or qualification testing for high‑reliability programs.

Why Choose MXTD

At MXTD, we specialize in mission‑critical separation connectors that push the boundaries of density and functionality. The YF6A‑21 series exemplifies our engineering excellence—packaging 20 signal circuits and a coaxial RF channel into a single, miniaturized breakaway interface. Manufactured under strict enterprise standard Q/21EJ275, each YF6A‑21 undergoes comprehensive testing including separation force verification, contact resistance measurement, and dynamic stress screening. Our team brings decades of experience in aerospace and naval separation systems, working closely with customers to ensure that every interface meets the unique demands of the mission. When you choose MXTD, you're partnering with a dedicated team focused on the success of your program, from prototype to production.

FAQ

Q: What makes the YF6A‑21 unique among separation connectors?
A: It combines 20 low‑frequency signal contacts with one 12# coaxial contact in a single, miniaturized breakaway package—ideal for applications requiring both discrete signals and RF/video/data transmission.

Q: What is the separation force range?
A: The mechanical separation force is calibrated between 15 N and 25 N.

Q: How many contacts are there, and what are their types?
A: There are 21 contacts total: 20 size‑22D contacts rated at 3 A each, plus one 12# coaxial contact for RF, video, or high‑speed data.

Q: What is the voltage rating for the coaxial contact in humid conditions?
A: Under damp heat conditions, the coaxial contact is rated at 250 V AC rms, compared to 500 V for the standard signal contacts.

Q: What termination method does this series use?
A: Termination is via solder cups for all contacts, providing reliable, field‑serviceable connections.

Q: What is the operating temperature range?
A: The connector operates from -55°C to +125°C.

Q: Can the connector be reused after separation?
A: Yes, the mechanical life is rated for 500 mating/separation cycles, making it suitable for multiple tests and operational uses.

Q: What vibration and shock levels can it withstand?
A: It withstands random vibration of 0.3 G²/Hz (20 Grms), sinusoidal vibration of 150 m/s² for 20 min, shock of 735 m/s² (6 ms), and constant acceleration of 30 g.

Q: What is the difference between YF6A‑21TK and YF6A‑21ZJ?
A: YF6A‑21TK is the plug (cable‑attached half) with socket contacts; YF6A‑21ZJ is the receptacle (panel‑mount half) with pin contacts.

Q: Do you provide mating connectors?
A: Yes, both plug and receptacle versions are available. Please specify your configuration when ordering.

Q: What is the insulation resistance after rain testing?
A: After humidity and rain exposure, insulation resistance remains >20 MΩ, ensuring reliable signal transmission.

Contact Us

Ready to integrate a miniaturized separation connector that handles both discrete signals and coaxial transmission? Our technical experts are standing by to discuss your specific application requirements and recommend the optimal YF6A‑21 configuration—from contact mix to separation force and coaxial specifications.

Whether you need standard units for immediate deployment or custom‑engineered solutions for next‑generation systems, we're here to help you achieve your mission objectives.

Reach out to our team today: manager04@mxtdinfo.com

Let us show you how our YF6A‑21 series hybrid separation connectors can deliver reliable signal and RF performance in even the most challenging environments.