PFAS-Free BNC Interconnects

Introduction

Amphenol RF’s PFAS-Free BNC Interconnects are a line of BNC connectors and adapters that replace conventional PTFE insulation with PEEK. The range is intended as a drop-in alternative to PTFE-insulated BNC designs, retaining standardized BNC interfaces and similar outer-body dimensions while providing RF performance specified up to 12 GHz.

What it does

These interconnects provide BNC RF connection and adaptation functions using PEEK as the insulator material. The line includes both connectors and adapters, allowing integration with systems that use standardized BNC interfaces.

The PEEK dielectric has a specified dielectric constant of 3.2 and a dissipation factor of 0.001 to 0.003 at 1 MHz. Its listed deflection temperature is +160°C at 264 PSI, while moisture absorption is specified as less than 0.02% after 24 hours under ASTM D570.

Construction includes nickel-plated brass bodies and contacts made from gold-plated brass or beryllium-copper. The combination supports a PFAS-free interconnect option without changing the familiar external form factor associated with comparable PTFE-insulated BNC products.

Applications

• RF test setups using BNC-connected instruments, cables, and fixtures
• Signal-routing and interconnection assemblies operating at frequencies up to 12 GHz
• BNC adapter arrangements where standardized interface compatibility is required
• Equipment designs seeking PEEK-insulated alternatives to PTFE-insulated BNC interconnects
• Compact RF assemblies where similar outer-body dimensions can simplify replacement or integration

Design considerations

The product line is designed around standardized BNC interfaces and outer-body dimensions similar to PTFE-insulated counterparts, which may help when evaluating replacements in existing BNC assemblies. However, the electrical and mechanical implications of changing the insulator material should be considered at the assembly level.

For RF design work, the specified 12 GHz frequency performance and PEEK dielectric constant of 3.2 are relevant to connector selection and system-level signal integrity requirements. Environmental and mechanical conditions should also be reviewed against the listed PEEK properties, including the +160°C deflection temperature and low moisture absorption specification.

Material selection may vary by contact: contacts are specified as gold-plated brass or beryllium-copper, while the body is nickel-plated brass. Designers should verify the applicable connector or adapter variant when contact construction is important to the assembly.

Availability and further information

Further product information is available through the Mouser Electronics source link and the datasheet link provided on this page.