Waterproof Electrical Box Connectors
Waterproof electrical box connectors provide protection from moisture, which can disrupt signals, corrode contacts, and damage equipment. They’re commonly used in harsh environments that require an extremely tight seal, like those involving saltwater or high-pressure water flow.
Waterproof junction boxes are available in plastic circular, metal circular, and mixed power/signal styles to fit your design requirements. To choose the right one, consider the following:
Ingress Protection (IP) Rating
Connectors are a key component of most electronic devices, routing signals and power between modules and sensors. Because of this, they need to be able to withstand harsh environments that could disrupt or damage equipment. This is why it’s important to know the IP rating of your electrical connectors.
An IP rating is an industry-standard designation that identifies how effective the enclosure of an electrical product is at blocking the ingress of solid particles and liquids. It is typically composed of two digits: the first number indicates protection against solid objects, and the second number refers to the level of water ingress protection on a scale of 0-6.
The higher the IP rating, the more protection the connector offers. For instance, an IP68 connector is designed to fully block dust ingress and can withstand full immersion in water for extended periods. The manufacturer will specify the maximum depths and duration of immersion, but it will be more than enough to protect against most outdoor industrial applications.
The IP rating of your electrical connectors is an important factor when choosing the right one for a harsh environment. The Northern Connectors catalogue features a wide range of waterproof electrical box connectors, each tailored to meet specific requirements. Our IP ratings range from the more basic IP20, which provides protection against fingers and other small solids, to our highest-rated waterproof connector, which is rated at IP69K.
Material
Waterproof electrical box connectors are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as humidity, rain, and snow. These conditions may cause corrosion and short circuits if the connector isn’t waterproof. Waterproof connectors create a tight seal that prevents moisture from entering the interior of the connector or the enclosure waterproof electrical box connectors to which it’s attached. This ensures that the electrical signals are properly transmitted and that the device stays protected from damage.
Waterproof connectors are often made of polycarbonate plastic and aluminum, and they can be found in a variety of industries. They’re used in alternative energy, food and beverage, marine technology, and other fields where harsh environmental conditions can affect the performance of electrical devices. Some models include a built-in rubber ring and clamping nut, which makes it easy to install the junction box connector.
Waterproof connectors can also be made of plastic and diecast aluminum. These products are designed for use in industrial applications and can withstand a wide range of operating temperatures. They’re often used in industrial controls, stage lighting, and off-road equipment. They’re also used in marine and offshore oil exploration, data communication installations, and transportation equipment. Depending on your design specifications and constraints, you waterproof connector manufacturer can choose from circular, metal, high mating cycle, or mixed power/signal models. PEI-Genesis can help you select the right waterproof electrical connectors for your specific application.
Design
Waterproof connectors are designed to protect wire connections against moisture, dust and other contaminants. They feature sealing mechanisms, such as rubber gaskets and O-rings, that create a secure seal around the connection points and prevent water ingress. These features make them suitable for use in harsh, demanding environments, where reliable electrical connectivity is essential.
Additionally, waterproof connectors offer a number of additional benefits that their standard counterparts cannot provide. For example, they can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and pressures. They are also often designed to resist corrosion, making them ideal for use in industrial settings that can expose equipment to corrosive chemicals.
In addition to their protective capabilities, waterproof connectors can reduce downtime and maintenance costs. They can help to prevent the formation of short circuits, which may lead to equipment damage and fires. They can also help to ensure that compliance with safety standards and regulations is maintained.
When selecting a waterproof electrical connector, it is important to consider the IP rating. Ideally, you should look for one with a rating of 60 to 69. This will ensure that your connector can withstand various environmental factors, including high-pressure water jets, dust, and long-term submersion in water. Additionally, it is important to select a connector that is easy to install and maintain. Before connecting the wires to the waterproof connector, you should strip the insulation using a wire stripper tool.
Applications
Electrical equipment is used in many harsh industrial environments, and these systems often face the risk of moisture exposure. Whether from rain and snow, humidity, or pressurized water for cleaning, water can damage conductivity and inhibit performance. Waterproof connectors are designed to withstand wet environments by forming a tight seal and protecting electrical connections from water ingress.
One common method of waterproofing an enclosure is to use a cable gland or cord grip, which has a rubber sleeve that clamps down on the wires to make a waterproof seal. This is a relatively simple and cost-effective solution, but it only works when the connectors are not subjected to significant stress. If the connectors are pulled or flexed, this can break down the sealant and allow moisture to enter the enclosure.
In addition, the adhesive used to create these connectors can degrade over time and require replacement. A more durable solution is to use a waterproof junction box that can provide a permanent seal in even the most challenging conditions. PEI-Genesis offers several waterproof junction boxes, including the LEMO K series, which is available in plastic circular, metal circular, high mating cycle, and mixed power/signal styles. Our knowledgeable team can also assist you in custom assembling the perfect waterproof connector for your specific project requirements.