D38999/20KH21PN | Stainless Steel 21-Pin Series III Receptacle (Size 23)

The D38999/20KH21PN is a heavy-duty MIL-DTL-38999 Series III stainless steel receptacle. Features 21 pin contacts, size 23 shell, and “K” class firewall capability for extreme grids.

999999 in stock

  • ISO & Quality Certifications
  • 100% Intermateable with original parts.
  • 1-Year Warranty with Full After-Sales Support
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D38999/20KH21PN Stainless Steel Construction and Firewall Capability

The D38999/20KH21PN belongs to the prestigious Class K category, distinguished by its passivated stainless steel shell. Unlike standard aluminum connectors, this model is engineered to provide a high-integrity firewall barrier, maintaining electrical performance even when exposed to direct flame for specified durations. This makes the D38999/20KH21PN an essential component for aircraft engine firewalls and high-temperature industrial zones where structural melting points are a critical safety factor. The stainless steel housing not only offers superior thermal resistance but also provides exceptional mechanical toughness against physical impacts and abrasive wear in harsh field environments.

Key Specifications

Shell Material

Voltage Rating

Current Rating

Operating Temp

Ingress Protection

Mating Cycles

Keying & Polarization

Coupling

Aluminum alloy

~1000 VAC

~23 A

-65 °C to +200 °C

IP67

500

N

threaded coupling

D38999/20KH21PN-mil-dtl-38999-series

23-21 Layout for Robust Power and Signal Distribution

Within the size 23 ruggedized shell, the D38999/20KH21PN utilizes the 21-pin arrangement known as the 23-21 insert. This configuration features Size 16 contacts, which are significantly larger and more robust than high-density signal pins. These larger contacts allow for substantial current-carrying capacity, making this receptacle ideal for power distribution or heavy-duty control signals in specialized electronic grids. Each pin contact is precision-machined from copper alloy and plated with premium gold, ensuring a low-resistance electrical path that remains stable over 500 mating cycles and resistant to atmospheric sulfurization or oxidation.

Square Flange Mounting and Structural Stability

As a Type 20 wall-mount receptacle, the D38999/20KH21PN is designed for permanent installation on bulkheads or equipment chassis. The square flange architecture provides four dedicated mounting holes, allowing for a balanced distribution of mechanical stress when secured with fasteners. This is particularly important for the size 23 shell, which often supports heavy, reinforced cable harnesses. The stability of the four-point mount ensures that the connector remains perpendicular to the panel, preventing any misalignment during the mating process and protecting the internal 21-pin interface from the torque and leverage forces common in industrial machinery and tactical platforms.

Environmental Sealing and Triple-Start Thread Security

The D38999/20KH21PN incorporates an advanced environmental sealing system consisting of high-resilience fluorosilicone interfacial seals and rear wire-sealing grommets. These components create a hermetic-like barrier against moisture ingress, hydraulic fluids, and maritime salt spray. Complementing this is the Series III signature triple-start threaded coupling mechanism. This self-locking system provides a rapid, secure connection that is inherently resistant to vibration-induced loosening. This combination of robust sealing and mechanical locking ensures the D38999/20KH21PN functions flawlessly in unpressurized aerospace compartments and aggressive chemical processing plants.

D38999/20KH21PN-dimensions

Normal Polarization and Global System Intermateability

  1. The “N” suffix in the D38999/20KH21PN part number indicates the use of the normal polarization keyway. As the industry default indexing configuration, the “N” keyway ensures maximum availability and universal intermateability with standard Series III plugs. This standardization is vital for global logistics and maintenance, as it allows for the seamless replacement of components across different platforms. Furthermore, the 100% scoop-proof shell design ensures that the 21 pin contacts are recessed deeply enough to prevent accidental damage during blind-mating. This ensures a high “first-time-right” connection rate in complex, low-visibility electronic grids.

FAQ

What is the main advantage of the Class K stainless steel finish?

The Class K finish provides a firewall rating and superior corrosion resistance, making it suitable for high-temperature zones like engine compartments where aluminum would fail.

This layout supports 21 individual channels using Size 16 contacts, providing a balance of power capacity and signal density for robust electronic grids.

It will mate with any MIL-DTL-38999 Series III plug of shell size 23 and layout 21, provided the plug also uses the standard “N” polarization.

While the connector has internal seals, achieving an air-tight panel mount usually requires an additional flange gasket and proper fastener tensioning on the square flange.

The “P” in the part number indicates pin contacts. In the MIL-Spec world, these are typically rear-release crimp contacts that can be easily replaced if damaged during service.

Certification