Many of our frequently asked questions are below. However, we encourage you to contact the factory with details about your project. We have people standing by to get into the details and help you decide what’s best for your application. Give us a call or scroll through the following for information. 770-534-4585.
What is the difference between PG11 and PG16?
PG is a thread type, like NPT or Metric, with specific dimensions.
It is shorthand for Stahlpanzergewinde: literally “Steel tank thread”. More often it is called by the shorter name Panzergewindeor (hence the PG) — or for us Southerners: conduit threading.
The number following the PG designation was originally intended to denote the maximum OD of a cable that could be passed through the conduit.
This was the original DIN standard for threading and has subsequently been replaced by metric, ie, M12x1.5.
The choice between the two sizes falls on what size (outside diameter) cable you are using. PG11 will usually accept 5-10mm, while PG16 will cover approximately 10-14mm OD cables.
Shop for Cable Glands
What is your return policy?
Upon inspection, unused product that can be repackaged and returned to inventory can be returned with a 15% restocking fee. Excluded from this policy are all crimp contact pins.
For more information, please call our customer service department.
How can I check availability of a particular part?
Search for the part# or connector type and the product(s) will be displayed with our current inventory. If the need is immediate or if the quantity available shown is close to your quantity need, please call us to verify availability. M-F 8:00a – 5:00p, EST. 770.534.4585.
Where can I get a list of distributors in my area?
Please call us for distributors in your area — 770.534.4585
Are any of your cross reference guides published for me, as a distributor, to use?
Not at this time. In such a dynamic market, we would prefer to speak with you personally about each cross. Often we find there are easier, less expensive, or more readily available products to help you service your customers.
Will you drop ship?
Yes, we offer drop ship at no additional charge.
What is the order cut-off time to ship overnight?
3:00pm EST
What are the minimum order terms?
We do not have minimum order requirements at this time. We feel that you should be able to order the parts you need when you need them.
What are your normal lead times on delivery?
This will depend on the products required. Our standard lead time is the best in the industry, we pride ourselves in super-quick deliveries. Please call for specific product inquiries.
Cables – Stock to 4 weeks
Receptacles – Stock to 2 weeks
Import items – Stock to 6 weeks
Junction Blocks – Stock to 2 weeks
Panel Interface Connectors – Stock to 2 weeks
If I am using another brand of connectors can you supply me with an equal or similar part, a cross-reference?
Yes, We have an extensive cross reference guide that will allow us to match your needs. We have cross information for Banner, Bosch, Canfield, Grace, Harting, Hirschmann, Lumberg, Murr, Pepperl & Fuchs, Phoenix Contact, Thomas & Betts, Turck, Weidmuller and more. Just give us a call or send us an e-mail request.
What is the best way to decide what connector is best for my application?
Most of the time the number of poles, current /conductor size, and space available are the key factors in selecting a connector. Of course it would also be required to mate with what may already be installed on a machine. System Overviews
What is the difference between NFPA 70 and NFPA 70E?
Short answer: NFPA 70 pertains to installation and NFPA 70E pertains to worker safety.
Long answer:
NFPA 70: This Code covers the installation of electrical conductors, equipment, and raceways; signaling and communications conductors, equipment, and raceways; and optical fiber cables and raceways for the following: (1) Public and private premises, including buildings, structures, mobile homes, recreational vehicles, and floating buildings (2) Yards, lots, parking lots, carnivals, and industrial substations (3) Installations of conductors and equipment that connect to the supply of electricity (4) Installations used by the electric utility, such as office buildings, warehouses, garages, machine shops, and recreational buildings, that are not an integral part of a generating plant, substation, or control center. (Source: http://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/document-information-pages?mode=code&code=70)
NFPA 70E: This standard addresses electrical safety-related work practices for employee workplaces that are necessary for the practical safeguarding of employees relative to the hazards associated with electrical energy during activities such as the installation, inspection, operation, maintenance, and demolition of electric conductors, electric equipment, signaling and communications conductors and equipment, and raceways. This standard also includes safe work practices for employees performing other work activities that can expose them to electrical hazards as well as safe work practices for the following: (1) Installation of conductors and equipment that connect to the supply of electricity (2) Installations used by the electric utility, such as office buildings, warehouses, garages, machine shops, and recreational buildings that are not an integral part of a generating plant, substation, or control center. (Source: http://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/document-information-pages?mode=code&code=70E)
Are Mencom cables CE listed?
Yes. You’ll find our CE Declarations here.
Does Mencom have RoHS certified products?
Yes, we can send a letter of compliance on request. Also, see our Certifications page.
Does Mencom manufacture UL Cul, CSA rated products?
Yes, we can provide the file numbers upon request. You can also access this information on our Certifications page.
What type of cable jacket materials are available for the Mencom cables?
We offer several standard options: PVC, PUR, TPE, High Flex PUR.
We can over-mold customer-provided cables. For example, the customer has a sensor with cable and needs a connector over-molded on the end of that cable. We also offer armored coverings: Stainless steel, PVC-covered stainless steel and for hi-temp applications we offer a silicone covered option.
How do I know if my M12 cable is A, B, or D-coded?
Clear here to see our Contact Position Overview.
What is the difference between MIN and MINC?
These products are shown in our catalog on page A-13. (Click here to view Catalog Sec. A [PDF])
MIN is the standard series and has the pins numbered 1-4 going counter clockwise from the keyway. MINC is the European version designed to be used with the MINC series. The pin placement is different and the male has male threaded coupling nuts.
What does the “SS” at the end of a part number mean?
(Shown: MIN-3MP-6-SS)
It means the coupling nut is made of stainless steel. This applies to our MIN series cable and receptacles as well as our M12 (Micro DC and Micro AC) products. If a part number does not have the “-SS” extension it could be clear anodized aluminum or nickel-plated brass, depending on the Mencom series you are looking at. Give us a call, we have specialists available to answer your specific questions or help you determine what would work best for your project.
Will an MDC extension cord connect to an MDC extension cord to “Daisy-Chain” a cord?
Yes.
Will a MIN extension cord connect to a MIN extension cord to “Daisy-Chain” a cord?
Yes this can be done, however an adapter coupling is need to secure the middle connection point. The MINC, MINE, and MINH products can be mated without the need of an adapter.
Can I get a molded cable that is longer than the standard lengths shown in the catalog?
Yes, Mencom will manufacture molded cables in custom lengths. For custom length cables, minimum quantity orders may apply.
I have a single ended cable and need to put a cable gland on the blunt end. How do I find the cable diameter to be able to get the correct cable gland?
Cable with specifications and cable diameters can be found in the back of the Mencom catalog in section “X”.
I would like a receptacle with longer leads than what is shown in the catalog. How do I go about finding the correct part number?
Mencom does offer receptacles with longer leads than what is shown in the catalog. Depending on the quantity that you need, and the lead time that you need it, we are able to produce custom receptacles that are a perfect fit for you application. For many popular receptacles, we offer and stock versions with 3 foot and 6 foot long leads. In all cases, feel free to contact a customer service representative for assistance getting the correct part number.
What are the advantages of the new ILME Squish inserts?
There are many advantages and benefits to this new product from ILME.
1. 50% labor savings over screw termination
2. Eliminates human error as to the tightening of the screws
3. Highest vibration resistance in terminations
4. No thermo cycling / screw termination has this issue.
5. Gas tight connection
Can I get ILME rectangular connectors in NPT threaded hoods and surface mounted bases?
Yes, Mencom was the first to offer NPT rectangular connectors; many of the hoods and bases are threaded from the factory and do not require adapters.
More information: NPT Thread Options.
I don’t know which components I need. Is there an easier way to select the heavy duty connector I need?
Yes. We offer kits that make putting together your ILME connector easier and this will save time and money. Click to learn about our ILME Kits.
Where can I learn about NFPA 70E?
Click here to learn about NFPA 70E.
I understand designing or adding a panel interface port into a control panel will help prevent accidental arc flash and provide increased safety; where can I learn more about rules or standards?
OSHA, in hand with NFPA enforces the NFPA 70E Standard. Click here to see NFPA 70E.
Your panel interface competitor uses a clear plastic lid, why does Mencom use a metal lid?
(Shown: GF-RJ45-R-32)
The metal door lid has two advantages over our competitor’s plastic version.
First, is that it is more robust. Customers frequently tell us that the plastic doors break in the field because someone forgets to close them. A simple bump by a person or other object and the plastic version breaks away.
The second advantage is that it hides the electrical outlet from sight which prevents unauthorized people, like janitorial staff, from plugging equipment into the port.
Why aren’t all of the panel interfaces shown in the catalog?
As the industry leader, Mencom currently produces in excess of 3,000 different configurations of panel interfaces. With that many choices, it would take nearly 140 pages in every catalog to present each version. The most popular selling versions are shown in the catalog along with the various subcomponents that we use. If you need a version not shown in the catalog, feel free to contact a customer service representative for assistance getting the correct part number.
Does Mencom carry managed Ethernet switches?
We do not inventory them, however we have access to them. Please contact the factory for more information.
What is your product offering on passive or smart Junction boxes ?
We do have a very good selection of passive junction boxes, however we do not currently offer smart junction boxes
We offer:
• 4-12 port, M12 Micro-DC series
• 4-8 port, Micro-AC series
• 4-8 port, 7/8 MIN series
• 4-8 port, M8 Nano series
I have solenoid valve connectors on my machines. How to I determine the right solenoid type for replacement?
There are five types that are commonly used for controlling a solenoid valve.
Form A, Form B, Form C Industry standard Form B, and Industry standard Form C
The best way to determine the difference is by measuring the size of the connector and looking at the pin configuration.
We offer our connectors in both field wireable and overmolded versions.
Click here to see valve options.
What are the available circuit configurations for valve connectors?
Click here for a diagram of valve circuits.
What type of strain relief products do you offer?
We offer a high quality German manufactured product. They are available in PG, Metric and NPT threads. Materials are Nonmetallic, Nickel Brass, and Stainless Steel. IP68 rated.
Do you offer explosion proof cable glands?
Yes. Click to see the selection of explosion proof brass cable glands, as rated for the ATEX 100A directive.
Learn more about the ATEX 100A 94/9/EC Directive:
European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/mechanical/documents/legislation/atex/
Conformance: http://www.conformance.co.uk/adirectives/doku.php?id=atex
What type of strain relief products do you offer?
We offer a high quality German manufactured product. They are available in PG, Metric and NPT threads. Materials are Nickel-plated brass, Plastic and Stainless Steel. IP68 rated.