Oil and gas electrical connector specialist Rampart Products (Houston, Texas / USA; www.rampartproducts.com) has specified “Victrex HT” PAEK from high performance polymer producer Victrex (Thornton Cleveleys / UK; www.victrex.com) for an HPHT (high pressure-high temperature) KTK (Kintec) electrical connector for the efficient and safe transmission of power and data during the drilling process.

The connector required to be rated for temperatures above 200 °C and pressures at 1,380 bar, providing a reliable electrical connection while protecting sensors and electronics, reducing downtime and system costs. Additional requirements include compatibility with industry-standard pin patterns, extended mating cycles and assembly efficiencies.

Traditionally, glass-reinforced epoxy resin was used in the KTK electrical connector market. However, using this material can result in cracking and chipping, requiring oil service companies to replace the connectors. Rampart Products said the “Victrex HT”-based connector has more than twice the impact resistance of the glass-reinforced epoxy constructed connectors, providing improved reliability in use by reducing cracking and chipping.