ILME at LED Controls
LED Controls is a trusted provider of ILME's heavy duty multipole connectors, inserts, hoods, housings, crimp contacts, tools and industrial power connectors. We have quick and easy access to ILME's range of equipment, meaning quick and easy connections for all your automation projects.
Why buy ILME from LED Controls
- Authorised UK supplier with genuine stock and competitive pricing
- Complete ecosystem covering inserts, hoods, housings, crimp contacts and tools
- Standard sizes from 21.21 up to 104.62 with matching accessories
- Help with selection, datasheets on request and responsive after sales support
- Next day delivery available on many lines
Build reliable quick connect systems with proven sealing, robust latching and modular options for power, signal and data.
ILME product categories
Female inserts
Female inserts for receptacles in multiple sizes and pole counts with screw and crimp terminations.
Male inserts
Matching male inserts with the same sizes, pole counts and current ratings for complete connector pairs.
Hoods
Metal hoods in top entry and side entry versions with metric thread options across standard sizes.
Bulkhead housings
Panel mount housings with lever mechanisms to secure inserts and meet the target IP rating.
Surface housings
Surface mounted enclosures with one or two levers and threaded entries for cable glands.
Crimp contacts
Female and male crimp contacts in silver or gold plating for a wide range of conductor sizes.
Tools
Dedicated insertion and extraction tools to speed assembly and protect contacts during servicing.
Male crimp connectors with advanced opening
Advanced opening geometry on selected male crimps for easier wire insertion and consistent terminations.
Industrial power connectors
230 V and 415 V plugs, sockets and couplers in 3 pole and 5 pole variants with IP67 or IP44 protection.
Housings with gaskets or pegs
Hoods and housings supplied with gaskets and alternative peg layouts to meet sealing and mounting needs.
Popular ILME Products
A brief history of ILME (industrial connectors)
- 1940s: Company founded in Milan, Italy, with a focus on durable electrical connection systems.
- 1960s: Launch of rectangular multipole connector families for machinery and plant wiring.
- 1980s: Consolidation of size standards (e.g. 21.21 to 104.62) and expanded accessory ecosystem.
- 1990s: Widespread adoption of crimp technology, coding accessories and improved lever-latch housings.
- 2000s: Higher IP sealing (IP65/66/67) across aluminium and thermoplastic housings for harsher environments.
- 2010s: Introduction of faster terminations (e.g. spring-type options) and modular insert layouts for power, signal and data.
- 2020s: Push-in terminations, digital selection tools and continued investment in global distribution and application support.
ILME has evolved from a specialist in robust industrial connectors to a complete ecosystem covering inserts, hoods, housings, contacts and tooling for demanding applications.
LED Controls stocks commonly specified ILME components in the UK and can source the wider catalogue quickly on request.
See ILME in action
Learn more about ILME's tradition of innovation in this video.
ILME Frequently Asked Questions
How do ILME sizes like 21.21 and 44.27 relate to pole count and current?
Connector size determines the physical footprint and available insert layouts. Choose a size that supports your required poles and current, then match the hood or housing from the same size family.
When should I use a top entry hood rather than a side entry hood?
Use top entry for straight cable runs or limited lateral space. Use side entry for low profile routing or when cables approach sideways. Both must match the thread size required for your glands.
Which IP rating do I need for an ILME connector?
Unmated inserts are typically IP20. Sealing is achieved by the hood or housing when mated. Use IP65 or IP66 for general industrial environments and IP67 or above for washdown or immersion. Always confirm the specific model rating.
What is the difference between screw, crimp, SQUICH and AXYR terminations?
Screw is familiar and serviceable. Crimp offers vibration resistance and high density. Spring and push-in options speed installation and can reduce tool use. Select based on environment and build method.
What are big hoods and when are they used?
Big hoods are larger bodies with extra pegs that accommodate high pole count inserts and larger cable entries. They are common on sizes like 104.27 where space and sealing are critical.
What are male crimp connectors with advanced opening?
These contacts have a profile that eases wire insertion and helps achieve consistent crimps. They are useful when building large volumes or in tight layouts.
Do ILME housings include gaskets and how do pegs affect compatibility?
Many housings include gaskets to achieve the stated IP rating. Peg configurations must match between hood and housing. Always pair items from the same size and peg layout.
Are ILME connectors suitable for food and beverage washdown areas?
Use sealed housings with IP67 or higher and smooth geometry. Stainless hardware and hygienic variants can help. Verify material compatibility with site chemicals and procedures.
Can you send datasheets and help me choose parts like CNEF10T, MKAV20 or CHI06L?
Yes. Share the MPN and application details and we will provide the datasheet and selection guidance. We can also suggest compatible accessories.
How quickly can LED Controls deliver ILME inserts, hoods and housings in the UK?
Many items are available for next working day delivery subject to stock. Lead times are confirmed at checkout or on enquiry.