Waterproof Bulkhead Connectors
Waterproof bulkhead connectors provide hermetic, sealed connections in heavy duty and harsh environment applications. They are available in a variety of connector interfaces including RF types (BNC, TNC and N-Type), rectangular (D-subs and rack & panel) and circular (MIL-spec and commercial equivalent styles).
These rugged connectors are used to make connections in electrical installations and equipment that require full protection against water and dust. This makes them ideal for use in marine applications such as security cameras and marine electronics.
Design
Waterproof bulkhead connectors protect circuitry from harsh environmental conditions and debris that can cause equipment failure. Their unique design allows them to seal the interface where male and female contacts mate, making them resistant to moisture, dust, corrosion and other contaminants that can lead to short circuits. This ensures that equipment operates safely and effectively for longer periods of time.
These circular waterproof connectors are used in a wide range of applications where power, communication and other electrical wires need to be protected from weather adversities. For example, marine industries rely on rugged waterproof bulkhead connectors to keep navigation lights shining and radios crackling in saltwater environments. They also serve as the superheroes of outdoor infrastructure, protecting lighting systems, telecommunication networks and renewable energy installations from extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity.
When selecting waterproof bulkhead connectors, engineers should consider the specific needs of their application and environment. They should choose a connector that has the features they need, such as an IP rating, to ensure their system will operate properly. They should also choose a manufacturer that offers a variety of housing sizes to suit their requirements.
Another important consideration is cost. Although it may be tempting to save money by choosing off-the-shelf sealed bulkhead connectors, they often impose fixed limits on the number of conductors they can accommodate and can impose mechanical design constraints. On the other hand, hermetic feedthroughs can reduce overall costs by eliminating the need for multiple bulkhead connectors and their associated wire harnesses.
Mounting
Waterproof bulkhead connectors mount directly into the enclosure of a device, allowing cable to connect to the housing through metal pins. waterproof bulkhead connectors They are designed to withstand the elements, such as vibration and shock, making them ideal for use in harsh environments. They can be used in a variety of applications, from network connectivity to industrial automation.
Bulkhead connectors are available in many different interfaces, including RF types (BNC, TNC, and N-Type), rectangular types (D-subs and rack & panel versions), and circular types (MIL-Spec and commercial equivalent styles, push-pull types, and RCA). The bulkhead mount style makes it easy to install the connector in a device with a single mounting hole.
The mounting system enables easy cable routing, even when the device is mounted vertically or horizontally. The molded bulkhead has no sharp edges and can be inserted into a hole with minimal force, reducing the chance of damage to cables or other components. It also allows users to quickly disconnect wires without having to remove the connector from the housing, minimizing downtime in the field.
Waterproof bulkhead connectors are used in a wide range of applications, from waterproof connector manufacturer outdoor networking to industrial automation. The waterproof design protects devices from moisture and dust, making them an excellent choice for harsh environments. They are also resistant to vibration and temperature extremes, allowing them to withstand the stresses of industrial settings.
Feedthrough
The feedthrough of a waterproof bulkhead connector is the opening in the chamber wall where cables pass. The housing of the seal covers and protects this area, and the metal pins can be color-coded or marked to make it easy for technicians to identify connections. The feedthrough is also able to handle pressure, making it suitable for use in underwater applications.
Waterproof bulkheads are typically used in outdoor networking and industrial automation applications where Ethernet connectivity is required. They can withstand vibration, shock, and environmental factors, such as moisture and dust. In these applications, it’s crucial to ensure that data is properly protected to prevent loss of information or equipment malfunction.
A continuous cable feedthrough saves space compared to an off-the-shelf bulkhead seal and can double the number of conductors that fit through any given panel or chamber wall opening. A single feedthrough also eliminates the wear-and-tear that can occur when connecting and disconnecting a standard bulkhead connector, extending its lifespan.
The cost savings of a continuous feedthrough can also be significant compared to the cost of purchasing and installing several standard connectors, harnesses, and wiring. Additionally, the hermetic seal of a continuous feedthrough provides significant savings in maintenance costs. In many cases, engineers find that a custom cable feedthrough is more economical than an off-the-shelf product that doesn’t match the application specifications.
Applications
Waterproof connectors are used in a wide variety of outdoor or harsh environments applications. They help ensure equipment is protected from environmental factors that can damage devices or disrupt data transmission. To find the right waterproof bulkhead connector for your application, consider the following factors:
Insulation resistance
Choosing a connector with high insulation resistance prevents electrical current from leaking out of the interface through accidental contact with water or other liquids. It also protects against temperature extremes, as a high resistance increases the resistance to the flow of heat through the connection points.
The waterproof bulkhead connector’s seal protects the area where male and female contacts mate. A good seal prevents ingress of water or harmful contaminants, especially when the connector is frequently mated and unmated. The seal must be able to withstand the operating environment and any chemicals it will come into contact with.
For example, waterproof RJ45 bulkhead connectors are used in marine applications to connect Ethernet devices on boats or ships. These types of connectors are also commonly used in security systems to provide Ethernet connectivity in outdoor or harsh environments. They can also be found in transportation systems to connect Ethernet devices on buses or trains. The Cobalt Series dry-mate underwater connectors from Blue Trail Engineering are another example of a waterproof bulkhead connector that can be used in harsh environments.