MultilamTechnology The Multilam Principle - Multi-Contact

Advanced Contact Technology 

Kontaktlamellen 

Multilam Contacts 

Contact à lamelles 

MultilamTechnology 

The Multilam Principle 

Multifunctional contact interface 

for static and dynamic contact applications


Better contacts 

The MC Multilam brought substantial improvements in relation 

to conventional contact systems. 

Advantages 

The Multilam soon developed into a whole system of contact 

elements. Its users recognised its outstanding advantages and 

within a short time a wide range of new application possibilities 

had evolved. 

Basis for solutions 

This brochure is intended to show the principle and application 

of the Multilam and serves as an aid for designers and engineers 

in the development of high-quality and reliable contact 

systems. 

Further developments 

Multi-Contact uses the Multilam in all connectors in its product 

range, and is constantly developing new components – also in 

collaboration with customers. 

Experience 

Multi Contact offers total solutions because the installation and 

correct selection of the Multilams require experience and 

know-how accumulated over many years. 

There is always a solution 

With this extensive know-how Multi-Contact will be pleased to 

support you in your search for the best solution. 

RoHSready 

Directive 2002/95/EC on the restriction of the use of certain 

hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment 

2 www.multi-contact.com 

An ingenious idea 

The success story of Multi Contact is 

based on the development of specially 

formed hard copper strips for electrical 

contact, the so-called MC Multilams.


Contact part A 

Multilam louver 

Contact part B The Multilam principle 4 


Steel strip 

Contact part B 

Cu-louver 

List of terms 

with 

explanations 

Contents 

The various types of Multilams 5 

Special forms of Multilam 6 

General contact technology 7 – 11 

Application range of the Multilams, temperatures, 

plugging cycles, current-carrying capacity and 

calculation of current-carrying capacity 12 – 13 

Technical data and typical applications of Multilams 14 – 19 

Special design features 20 – 21 

Glossary 22 

www.multi-contact.com 3


The louver contacts are produced from strips, and allow electrical 

contact to be made via a large number of defined, current 

carrying contact points. 




Contact arrangement with torsion spring-type Multilam 

The Multilam Principle 

R �R �2(R �R 

) 

k � e f 

Rk1 Rk2 Rk3 Rkn 


Each louver forms an independent, spring loaded current 

bridge, so that the many parallel louvers substantially reduce 

the overall contact resistance. 

I 


Re1 Rf1 

Rl Rf2 Re2 

The contact resistance Rk of a Multilam louver can be found by the following 

formula: 

Re 1 /Re 2 = constriction resistance 

R � = internal resistance of louver 

Rf 1 /Rf 2 = film resistance 

I = nominal current 

The contact resistance Rg of the Multilam is determined 

as follows: (Parallel connection of louvers) 

Rg 

1 1 1 1 1 

� � � � 

R R R R R 

R 

Rf1 

g k 1 k 2 k 3 kn 

g 

Rk 

� 

n 

Rl 

Re1 

n = number of louvers 

Re2 

Rf2 


I


LA0 LA0-G LAIA 

LAIB 

LA-CU 

LAII 

LA-CUT/0,25/0 

LAI-GSR 

LA-CUT/0,25 

LAIII LAIV LAV LAVII Twisted 

Characteristic features of the Multilams 

high resistance to heat 

high electrical and thermal conductivity 

sufficiently high contact forces 

high number of contact cycles 

large operating range (LA-CUT) 

The various types of Multilams 

MC Multilams based on the torsion spring principle 

MC Multilams based on the leaf spring principle 

excellent resistance to corrosion 

easy to process (form- and electroplate) small space requirement 

low cost contact elements 

resistance to vibration 

long product life 



Special forms of Multilams for special requirements 

LA-CUT 

LA-CU 

Functional division between spring element (steel strip) and 

electrical conducting element (Cu louver) 

Features 

very good electrical and thermal conductivity 

excellent spring characteristics 

low but adequate contact force keeps wear rates to an absolute 

minimum 

Functional division between spring element (steel strip) and 

electrical conducting element (Cu louver) 

Features 

excellent electrical conductivity 

high continuous current-carrying capacity 

high short-circuit current-carrying capacity 

large radial tolerance absorption 



Steel strip 


security against excessive elongation 

compact width, saves space 

Cu-louver 

resistant to high tempartures (up to 180°C) 

Angular misalignment absorption 

Angular absorption +/-2° dependent on the installation mode, 

diameter and plug-in depth 

large operating range 

angular misalignment absorption 

easy to machine recess 

easy to install


The contact force 

General Contact Technology 

Connector Definitions 

Plug connectors are electrical connectors that must not be connected or disconnected 

when in use for their intended purpose (under load). 

Connectors: – are designed to be disconnected without load only 

Plug and socket devices: – are designed to be connected and disconnected under load 

Constant contact force 

over its working life 

Constant contact resistance 

over its working life 

Good heat dissipation 

during continuous operation 

The hardness of the contact material 

The service temperature 

Adequate contact force 

to break through the oxide film 

Contact requirements 

Parameters influencing the constriction resistance: 

the higher the contact force, the lower the constriction resistance 

the harder the material, the higher the constriction resistance 

With increasing temperature, the constriction resistance increases and then gradually 

breaks down when softening and melting temperatures are reached. 

The higher the constriction resistance increases, 

the higher the risk of contact welding! 

Low contact resistance 

Good thermal-shock resistance 

in event of short-circuit 

Low constriction resistance Re 

i.e. many and large a-spots 



Flat contact surfaces 

With flat contact surfaces there is no real danger of a welding effect, because the constriction resistance is spread out over many 

contact points. Flat contact surfaces are very susceptible to the formation of pollution films. 

When contact parts close, contact areas with different electrical characteristics are formed 

Contact parts with pollution film Contact parts closed 

Cu-rail under the microscope 

apparent contact area 


film barrier within the supporting contact area 

quasi-metallic contacts 

effective contact area (a-spots)


Flat contact 

Current paths evenly distributed, but oxide film may not be 

completely broken through 

� 

R e � 

2�a�n 

Formation of contact transitions 

2a 

� = specific resistance of the contact material 

Re = constriction resistance 

n = sum of the a-spots 

a = radius of the effective contact areas (a-spots) 

Point contact 

Current paths restricted, oxide film is broken through but there 

is a high risk of welding 

� 

R e � 

2�a� 

n 

Assessment of contact quality 

The quality of a connector can be assessed by measuring the voltage drop at the rated current (DC) over the point of contact. The 

values in the following table are based on practical experience: 

Class Voltage drop at rated current (DC) Assessment 

1 < 5mV very good 

2 5mV – 12mV good 

3 13mV – 25mV sufficient, usable 

4 26mV – 50mV critical unsure 

5 51mV – 100mV unusable 

6 > 100mV failed 

www.multi-contact.com 9 

2a


Material Electrical 

conductivity 

m 

2 

� xmm 

CuZn 

Brass 

CuSn6 

Spring bronze 

CuBe2 

Beryllium-copper 

CuNi18Zn20 

Nickel silver 

CuNi9Sn2 

Wieland L49 Ca72 

NiBe 

Nickel-Beryllium 

Comparison between electrical, mechanical and thermal characteristics 

of copper alloys and spring contact materials 

Thermal 

conductivity 

W 

m �K 

Vickers 

hardness 


HV 

bending stress 

limit 

N 

mm 2 

Max. working 

temperature 

15,5 121 150 – 180 > 290 85 

9,5 75 160 – 220 370 125 

12 113 

max. 450 

hardened 

max. 1050 

hardened 

3,3 33 170 – 200 > 390 125 

6,4 48 160 – 190 > 440 125 

4 38 

440 – 510 

hardened 

max. 1600 

hardened 

°C 

180 

350 

Application 

Spring contact 

Plug connectors 

Soldering tabs 

Parts for switches 

Substrate material 

For relay contacts 

for higher 

temperatures 

Cu 57 380 – 390 60 – 120 250 – Cu-data for 

comparison purposes 

Material Thickness in µm Advantages Disadvantages 

Au 0,15 – 2,5 

Ag 5 – 10 

Sn 1 – 10 

Comparison between plating materials Au, Ag and Sn for connectors 

Contact requirements low contact force 

– good chemical stability 

– low contact force allowed 

high thermal conductivity 

high electrical conductivity 

abrasion resistant 

– very good electrical / thermal conductivity 

– DRY-CIRCUIT applications, low current and 

low voltage 

– good soldering characteristics 

– excellent electrical conductivity 

– excellent thermal conductivity 

– easy to form when cold 

– for medium and high currents 

– low abrasion 

– low cost 

– easy to plate 

– easy to tin at low temperatures 

– good soldering characteristics 

corrosion resistant 

suitable for plating 

low cost 

– high cost 

– relatively soft 

– diffusion barrier required 

– not free from pores with thin layers 

– subject to sulphide tarnishing 

– more expensive than Sn 

– minimum contact force 

– only for low no. of plugging cycles n < 100 

– higher plug-in and withdrawal force 

– higher contact force necessary 3,5N – 5N 

– higher abrasion 

– susceptible to oxidation


Insulation 

– insulating 

– high dielectric strength 

– form stable 

– rugged 

Contact element 

– heat resistant 

– elasticity 

Efficiency of contact 

– current capacity 

– voltage capacity 

– contact resistance 

Type of connection 

– soldering 

– clamping 

– AxiClamp 

– crimping 

– wrapping 

Contact area 

– plugging cycles 

– plating thickness 

– material 

– abrasion 

Contact failure 

– corrosion 

– oxide film 

– environment condition 

– misalignment 

Basic requirements for the design of connectors 

Vibration 

– vibration proof 

– shock proof 

plug-in force 

sliding force 

withdrawal force 

Contact characteristics 

– contact resistance 

– insulation resistance 

Standardization 

– assembly dimensions 

– contact spacing 

– specifications 

– number of poles 

Contact pressure 

– adequate 

– constant 

Frequency characteristics 

– capacitance 

– reflection factor 

– shield 

– surge impedance 

Price of contact 

– contact plating 

– insulation 

– termination type 

– contact elements 

Contact heat 

– thermal resistance 

– power dissipation 

– thermal conductivity 

Contact testing 

– electrical 

– dimensions 

– mechanical 

– thermal 

– climatic 



Fields of application of Multilams 

There is now a range of some 50 different Multilams, each of 

which is designed for a specific application. Multilams with a 

very thin � strip thickness of 0,8mm to 0,125mm are used 

where many plugging cycles are required. Connectors for few 

plugging cycles and permanent contacts for press-fitting are 

equipped with thicker Multilams, e.g. 0,3mm to 0,5mm. For 

extreme load conditions such as in switchgear, which are characterised 

by a large number of plugging or sliding operations 

and high short-time currents, it is recommended to have the 

connector fitted with guide rings. 

Temperatures 

The Multilams (Cu-Be alloy) are suitable for use at temperatures 

up to 180°C. In case of short circuits, temperatures up to 

250°C can be tolerated for a short time. The use of other alloys 

for Multilams – e.g. NiBe – results in reduced current-carrying 

capacity and conductivity. High-temperature connectors for 

temperatures from 350°C – 400°C can be supplied with 

Multilams made of NiBe alloy. Multilams can also be used at 

extremely low temperatures. Experiments in liquid helium at 

4,2K have been successfully carried out. 

Plugging cycle 

The sliding forces of our connectors depend on several parameters 

such as the type of Multilam, plating, the base materials 

of the contact parts, the applied � lubricant etc. The data provided 

here can be regarded as typical values. The coefficients 

of friction typically vary around 0,35. 

In the technical data we state the � sliding force per louver for 

a mean friction coefficient of µr = 0,35. As a general rule the 

following equation applies: 

F �n��F s r k 

Standard high-current connectors are silver-plated to 5 – 10µm. 

These platings are suitable for approximately 5,000 plugging 

cycles, provided they are coated with a thin film of lubricant 

before being used for the first time. For larger numbers of up 

to 30,000 plugging cycles, the Multilams and the contact surface 

which slides over them can be plated with a thicker layer 

of silver and a thin film of lubricant applied before their first 

use. Plugging cycles up to 100,000 or more require special silver 

plating on both the Multila’s and the contact surfaces. 

If more than 5,000 plugging cycles are required, MC recommends 

special � guide rings and “soft” (thin strip material) 

Multilams. Since “soft” Multilams have a reduced current-carrying 

capacity, it may be necessary to fit several Multilams in 

parallel. 


See 

Example 

See 

See 

See 

Example 

Strip thickness (Thickness of the Multilam strip) 

pages 14, 16, 18, 22 

2-pole high temperature contact for an ambient 

temperature of 350°C. 

Lubricant, page 22 

Sliding force per louver / medium spring deflection, 

pages 14, 16, 18, 22 

Fs = Sliding force of a contact 

n = Number of louvers 

µr = Friction coefficient 

Fk = Contact force per louver accord. to table 

pages 14, 16, 18 

Multilam contact with guide rings


Current-carrying capacity 

The current-carrying capacity of connections with Multilams 

depends upon a number of factors which can essentially be assigned 

to two categories: contact resistance and environmental 

conditions. Below the categories are further subdivided and 

the relevant factors are named. 

1. Internal resistance of the Multilam 

Material resistance depends on the length and the conductive 

cross-section 

Material of the louvers 

2. Contact resistance between the louver and 

the contact parts 

Contact force Fk 

Size of the contact points 

Coating of the Multilam and the contact parts 

Oxidation, pollution layers 

Surface roughness of the contact parts 

3. Resistance of the contact parts 

Material 

Cross section of the contact parts 

4. Environmental conditions 

Ambient temperature 

External temperature influences 

Environmental conditions 

The electrical values for Multilams stated in the table on pages 

14 – 19 are based on optimum conditions. That means, for instance, 

that contact surfaces with a roughness of N6 must be 

provided with suitable and clean coatings, not oxidised or polluted. 

The ambient temperature is 20°C and the electrically 

conducting cross-sections of the contact parts must be 

adequate. 

Approximative calculation of the 

current-carrying capacity 

(Calculated with the values from tables on pages 14 – 19) 

Number of louvers n 

for round contacts: 

Number of louvers n 

for flat contacts: 

Total resistance Rg 

of a contact: 

n d �� 

� 

r 

The rated continuous current In and the short-circuit currents Ik 

(for 1s, 2s and 3s) and the rated peak withstand current are all 

calculated in the same manner with the appropriate values: 

R 

n � 

r 

� 

Iwhole Multilam �n�Iper louver 

g 

Rk 

� 

n 

Plug assembly 

Nominal diameter 

= socket diameter 

Socket assembly 

Nominal diameter 

= plug diameter 

Flat assembly 


d = Ø of contact 

� = 3,1415... 

r = Contact spacing 

(according to table pages 14,16,18) 


� = Length of flat contact 

r = Contact spacing 

(according to table pages 14,16,18) 

Rg = Overall resistance of contact assembly 

Rk = Average contact resistance per louver 



I = currents 



LA0/... 

LA0-G 

LAIA/... 

LAIB/... 

LAII/... 

1) The sliding force is normally determined on the end product 

2) see catalogue 1 Powerline 

Technical data and typical applications of MC Multilams 

Multilam type Typical Sizes Applications Dimensions Mechanical data 

LA0/0,15 

LA0/0,20 

LA0/0,25 

LA0/0,30 


Width of Multilam 

mm b 

mm 

> Ø 25 

> Ø 25 

> Ø 25 

> Ø 25 

LA0-G/0,25 > Ø 25 

LAIA/0,08 

LAIA/0,10 

LAIA/0,125 

LAIA/0,15 

LAIA/0,20 

LAIA/0,25 

LAIA/0,30 

LAIA/0,40 

LAIA/0,50 

LAIB/0,08 

LAIB/0,10 

LAIB/0,125 

LAIB/0,15 

LAIB/0,20 

LAIB/0,25 

LAIB/0,30 

LAII/0,15 

LAII/0,20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 8 – Ø 20 

Ø 15 – Ø 20 

Ø 20 – Ø 70 

Ø 20 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 25 – Ø 70 

Ø 3,5 – Ø 20 

Ø 3,5 – Ø 20 

Switches, 

disconnectors 

earth connectors 

sliding and rotary 

connectors 

Switches, 

disconnectors 

earth connectors 

sliding contacts 

Round contacts 

as in B8N to 

B20N 2) , 

Flat contacts, 

as in fork plugs 

Round contacts 

as in B25N to 

B40N 2) , 

switches, 

disconnectors, 

earth connectors, 


contacts 

Transformers 

and fork plugs 

26 

26 

26 

26 

Thickness of 

Multilam strip 

s 

mm 

0,15 

0,2 

0,25 

0,3 

Contact spacing 

r 

mm 

5 

5 

5 

5 

Contact force per 

louver with medium 

spring deflection 

Fk 

N 

3 

8,5 

15 

17 

Sliding force per 


spring defl. µr =0,35 

Fs 

N 

1,05 

3 

5,25 

6 

25 0,25 2,5 9 3,15 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,5 

17,6 

17,6 

17,6 

17,6 

17,6 

17,6 

17,6 

14 

14 

0,08 

0,1 

0,125 

0,15 

0,2 

0,25 

0,3 

0,4 

0,5 

0,08 

0,1 

0,125 

0,15 

0,2 

0,25 

0,3 

0,15 

0,2 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

2,5 

1,5 

1,5 

1 

3 

4 

7 

15 

20 

32,5 

68 

105 

1 

3 

4 

7 

15 

20 

32,5 

10 

16 

0,35 

1,05 

1,4 

2,5 

5,25 

7 

11,4 

23,8 

37 

0,35 

1,05 

1,4 

2,5 

5,25 

7 

11,4 

3,5 

5,6


Rated current (A) 

per louver 

l 

n 

A 

Contact resistance (m�) 

per louver 

R 

k 

m� 

Electrical data 1) 

Short circuit current (kA) 

per louver at 

lk11s kA 

( ) lk2( 2s) 

lk3( 3s) 

kA kA 

Rated peak withstand current (kA) 

per louver 

0 7 14 21 28 35 42 49 56 63 0 0,1 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,5 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,9 1,0 0 0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1,0 1,2 1,4 1,6 1,8 0 0,7 1,4 2,1 2,8 3,5 4,2 4,9 5,6 6,3 

1) valid for Multilams made from hard copper, silver-plated (mating part Cu, silver-plated) 


l 

p 

kA


LA-CU 

LA-CUT 


Multilam type Typical Sizes Applications Dimensions Mechanical data Thermal data 

LA-CU/0,15-0,5 Ø 12 – Ø 400 

LA-CUT/0,25 > Ø 50 

LA-CUT/0,25/0 > Ø 50 

1) The sliding force is normally determined on the end product 



mm b 

mm 

Switches 

disconnectors 

earth, 

connectors 


contacts 

Switches 

disconnectors 

earth, 

connectors 


contacts 

Switches 

disconnectors 

earth, 

connectors 


contacts 

Thickness of 


s 

mm 


r 

mm 




Fk 

N 




Fs 

N 

Continuous using 

temperature 

Short time 

temperature 

Thermal resistance 

per louver 

°C °C K/W 

12 0,15 (Cu 0,5) 3,5 7 2,5 180 250 25 

26 0,25 (Cu 1) 4 10 1 – 2 1) 150 250 25 – 30 

30 0,25 (Cu 1) 4 10 1 – 2 1) 150 250 25 – 30



per louver 

l 

n1 l n 2 

A 

A 


per louver 

R 

k 

m� 



per louver at 

l ( s) 

l ( s) 

l ( s) 

k1 1 

kA 

k 2 2 

kA 

k 3 3 

kA 


per louver 

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 0 0,1 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,5 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,9 1,0 0 0,2 0,4 0,6 0,8 1,0 1,2 1,4 1,6 0 0,6 1,2 1,8 2,4 3,0 3,6 4,2 4,8 5,4 

1) Valid for MC Multilam Contacts, silver-plated (mating part Cu, silver-plated) 


l 

p 

kA


LAIII 

LAIV 

LAV 

LAVII 


Multilam type Typical Sizes Applications Dimensions Mechanical data 

LAIII/0,125 

LASIII/0,15 

LAIII/0,20 

LAIII/0,30 

LAIV/0,10 

LAIV/0,125 

LAIV/0,15 

LAV/0,10 

LAV/0,125 

LAV/0,15 



mm b 

mm 

Ø 2 – Ø 20 

Ø 2 – Ø 20 

Ø 2 – Ø 20 

Ø 2 – Ø 20 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Ø 0,5 – Ø 4 

Test cables, 

probes 

Test cables, 

probes, 

miniature 

sockets 

Miniature 

sockets 

12 

12 

12 

12 

8 

8 

8 

5 

5 

5 

Thickness of 


s 

mm 

0,125 

0,150 

0,200 

0,300 

0,100 

0,125 

0,150 

0,100 

0,125 

0,150 


r 

mm 

0,8 – 1,0 

0,8 – 1,0 

0,8 – 1,0 

0,8 – 1,0 

0,6 – 0,8 

0,6 – 0,8 

0,6 – 0,8 

0,6 – 0,8 

0,6 – 0,8 

0,6 – 0,8 




LAVII/0,125 Ø 0,8 – Ø 2,36 Miniature 

sockets 3 0,125 0,6 – 0,8 – – 

1) The sliding force will be determined by the end product 

2) No indication of guide values possible, these values depend on the final use 

Fk 

N 

3,5 

7 

2) 

– 

– 

– 

10 

– 

– 

3 




Fs 

N 

1,25 

2,5 

2) 

– 

– 

– 

3,5 

– 

– 

1,05



per louver 

l 

n1 

A 


per louver 

R 

k 

m� 



per louver at 

lk11s kA 

( ) lk2( 2s) 

lk3( 3s) 

kA kA 


per louver 

0 1,5 3,0 4,5 6,0 7,5 9,0 10,5 12,0 13,5 0 0,1 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,5 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,9 1,0 0 0,04 0,08 0,12 0,16 0,20 0,24 0,28 0,32 0,36 0 0,1 0,2 0,3 0,4 0,5 0,6 0,7 0,8 0,9 

1) Valid for Multilams made from hard copper, gold-plated 

2) No indication of guide values possible, these values depend on the final use 


l 

p 

kA


Cylindrical contacts 

The Multilams are fitted on cylindrical 

contact rings. Either in a socket (female), 

the mating part being a rigid pin, 

or on a pin (male) and the mating part a 

rigid socket. Also for dynamic applications 

(axial movement or rotatable). 

Spherical contacts 

Accommodate angular misalignments 

and axial movements (sliding). 

Special design features 

With MC Multilam technology, users have available an extremely 

flexible and individually adaptable contact interface. 


Flat contacts 

are suitable for connecting busbars, either 

as a connector or a clamping unit. 

This allows connection and disconnection 

with large busbars. 

Fork contacts 

are suitable for connecting busbars to 

the plug-in module system. Connections 

to parallel busbars can easily be made 

with “floating” fork contacts.


MC Multilams 

Countless applications and a basis for new developments 

The first step to a solution for 

your own contact 

is a simple form to be filled in online with your contact requirements 

You will find this form under: 

www.multi-contact.com > Downloads > Online Forms > 

Checklist / Inquiry Form 

Send the generated pdf-form, together with possible additions 

or additional requirements by mail to: 

basel@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact 



Strip thickness s 

Thickness of the Multilam strip without plating. 

Leaf spring Multilam 

Individual louvers have a spring action as a result of their 

curved shape. Leaf spring Multilam bands are usually gold or 

nickel plated. 

Torsion spring Multilam 

MC Multilam type with individual louvers which deflect under 

torsion. They are made from copper alloy and are usually silver 

plated. 

Definition In1, In2 

In1 = Nominal current under normal environmental conditions 

and good contact quality according to table, page 9. In1 is the 

basis for MC design. 

In2 = Nominal current under optimal environmental conditions 

and sufficient contact quality according to table, page 9. 

Internal resistance of the louver 

results from the specific resistance of the louver material, the 

distance the current must travel through the louver and the active 

cross-section. 

Standards 

IEC 61984 (VDE 0627): 

Safety requirements and tests for plug connectors. 

IEC 61010-031 (VDE 0411-031): 

Safety regulations and hand-held accessories for test and measurement. 

IEC 62271-1 (VDE 0671-1): 

High voltage switchgear and switch devices – general definitions. 

Contact force Fk 

is defined as the spring force of a louver at medium deflection. 

Contact resistance 

is the resistance of the point of contact between the Multilam 

and the contact parts. 

Multilam recess 

Groove milled into the contact part for the “floating” mounting 

of a Multilam louver. 

RoHS – 2002/95/EC 

European Directive 2002/95/EC (“RoHS” for short) restricts the 

use of certain hazardous substances in household equipment. 

Multilam strips are component parts, and as such are not directly 

affected by this directive. They also contain none of the 

substances which are scheduled under the directive and can 

therefore be safely incorporated in devices to which the 

directive applies. 

Glossary 



Individual contact element of a Multilam strip; there are either 

� leaf spring louvers or � torsion spring louvers. 

Contact spacing r 

is the distance between the centres of two � Multilam louvers. 

Sliding force FS 

is the purely frictional force of the deflected Multilam. 

The stated figures are average values obtained with a thin lubricant 

film and after 20 – 30 mating cycles. The values are 

higher in new connectors. The sliding force is determined in 

the end product, since its value is not determined solely by the 

Multilam. 

Plug-in force FSt 

is the maximum force needed in order to deflect the Multilam 

when mating the connector. It is made up of the spring force 

and the frictional force. 

The plug-in force is determined in the end product, since its 

value is not determined solely by the Multilam. 

It should be noted that the plug-in force is always greater than 

the sliding force. The plug-in force is usually not indicated. 

Force 

Difference between plug-in force and sliding force 

F St 

Mating way 

Lubricants 

MC recommends the following lubricants: 

Grease (general electrical contacts): 

METALON HT-1,5-50ML (73.1052) 

KONTASYNTH BA100 SPRAY (73.1051)* 

Sliding grease: 

in SF6-Gas: Barrierta I EL-102* 

Press-fitting and sealing grease: 

Barrierta I S-402 or Barrierta I MI-202* 

* from Klüber Lubrication, Munich. 

FS




Headquarters: 

Multi-Contact AG 

Stockbrunnenrain 8 

CH – 4123 Allschwil 

Tel. +41/61/306 55 55 

Fax +41/61/306 55 56 

mail basel@multi-contact.com 

www.multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Deutschland GmbH 

Hegenheimer Strasse 19 

Postfach 1606 

DE – 79551 Weil am Rhein 

Tel. +49/76 21/6 67 - 0 

Fax +49/76 21/6 67 - 100 

mail weil@multi-contact.com 


Handelsges.m.b.H. Austria 

Hauptplatz 8 

AT – 3452 Heiligeneich 

Tel. +43/2275/56 56 

Fax +43/2275/56 56 4 

mail austria@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Benelux 

c/o Stäubli Benelux N.V. 

Meensesteenweg 407 

BE – 8501 Bissegem 

Tel. +32/56 36 41 00 

Fax +32/56 36 41 10 

mail benelux@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Czech 

c/o Stäubli Systems, s.r.o. 

Hradecká 536 

CZ – 53009 Pardubice 

Tel. +420/466/616 126 

Fax +420/466/616 127 

mail connectors.cz@staubli.com 

Multi-Contact Española 

c/o Stäubli Española S.A. 

C/Marià Aguiló, 4 – 1° 

ES – 08205 Sabadell 

Tel. +34/93/720 65 50 

Fax +34/93/712 42 56 

mail spain@multi-contact.com 

Ihre Multi-Contact Vertretung: 

Your Multi-Contact representative: 

Votre représentant Multi-Contact: 

Multi-Contact Essen GmbH 

Westendstrasse 10 

Postfach 102 527 

DE – 45025 Essen 

Tel. +49/2 01/8 31 05 - 0 

Fax +49/2 01/8 31 05 - 99 

mail essen@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact (UK) Ltd. 

3 Presley Way 

Crownhill, Milton Keynes 

GB – Buckinghamshire MK8 0ES 

Tel. +44/1908 26 55 44 

Fax +44/1908 26 20 80 

mail uk@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Italia 

c/o Stäubli Italia S.p.A. 

Via Rivera, 55 

IT – 20841 Carate Brianza (MB) 

Tel. +39/0362/94 45 01 

Fax +39/0362/94 45 80 

mail italy@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Portugal 

c/o Stäubli Portugal 

Representações Lda 

Via Central de Milheirós, 171-A 

PT – 4475-330 Milheirós / Maia 

Tel. +351/229 783 956 

Fax +351/229 783 959 

mail portugal@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Türkiye 

c/o Stäubli Sanayi Makine ve 

Aksesuarlari Ticaret Ltd. ¸Sti. 

Atatürk Mahallesi, Marmara 

Sanayi Sitesi, B Blok No: 28 Ikitelli 

TR – 34306 Istanbul 

Tel. +90/212/472 13 00 

Fax +90/212/472 12 30 

mail turkey@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact France SAS 

4 rue de l’Industrie 

BP 37 

FR – 68221 Hésingue Cedex 

Tel. +33/3/89 67 65 70 

Fax +33/3/89 69 27 96 

mail france@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact Russia 

OOO STAUBLI RUS 

ul.Startovaya 8a 

RU – 196210 Saint Petersburg 

Tel. +7/812/334 46 30 

Fax +7/812/334 46 36 

mail russia@multi-contact.com 

www.multi-contact-russia.com 

Multi-Contact Brazil 

c/o Stäubli Comércio, Importação, 

Exportação e Representações Ltda. 

Rua Henri Dunant, 137 - Conj. D 

BR – 04709-110 São Paulo 

Tel. +55/11/2348 7400 

Fax +55/11/5181 8334 

mail brazil@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact China 

c/o Stäubli Mechatronic Co. Ltd. 

Hangzhou Economic and 

Technological Development Zone 

No. 5, 4 th Street 

CN – 310018 Hangzhou 

Tel. +86/571/869 121 61 

Fax +86/571/869 125 22 

mail hangzhou@staubli.com 

Multi-Contact Hongkong 

c/o Stäubli (H.K.) Ltd. 

Unit 87, 12/F, HITEC 

No. 1 Trademart Drive 

Kowloon Bay 

HK – Hong Kong 

Tel. +852/2366 0660 

Fax +852/2311 4677 

mail connectors.hk@staubli.com 

Multi-Contact USA 

100 Market Street 

US – Windsor, CA 95492 

Tel. +1/707/838 - 0530 

Fax +1/707/838 - 2474 

mail usa@multi-contact.com 

www.multi-contact-usa.com 

Multi-Contact Taiwan 

c/o Stäubli (H.K.) Ltd. 

Taiwan Branch 

6/F-3, No. 21, Lane 583 

Ruiguang Road, Neihu Dist. 

TW – Taipei City 11466 

Tel. +886/2/8797 7795 

Fax +886/2/8797 8895 

mail connectors.tw@staubli.com 

Multi-Contact Korea 

c/o Stäubli Korea Co., Ltd. 

2F, DCCI, 107-2, 

Shincheon-dong, Dong-gu, 

ROK – 701-702 Daegu 

Tel. +82/53/753/0075 

Fax +82/53/753/0072 

mail korea@multi-contact.com 


(South East Asia) Pte. Ltd. 

215 Henderson Road #01-02 

Henderson Industrial Park 

SG – Singapore 159554 

Tel. +65/626 609 00 

Fax +65/626 610 66 

mail singapore@multi-contact.com 

Multi-Contact (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 

160/865-866 Silom Road 

ITF-Silom Palace 33 rd Floor 

Suriyawong, Bangrak 

TH – Bangkok 10500 

Tel. +66/2/266 78 79; 268 08 04 

Fax +66/2/267 76 80 

mail thailand@multi-contact.com 

Sie finden Ihren Ansprechpartner unter: 

You will find your local partner at: 

Trouvez vos contacts sous: 

www.multi-contact.com 

© Multi-Contact AG, Switzerland, 12.2009 (1) 11.2011/1000/WD – MultilamTechnology – Global Communications – Änderungen vorbehalten / Subject to alterations / Sous réserve de modifications.

MultilamTechnology The Multilam Principle - Multi-Contact

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