Waterproof Bulkhead Connectors
Waterproof bulkhead connectors are used in a variety of applications that require connectivity in harsh environments. These include marine electronics, automotive systems, and transportation devices.
These connectors offer a range of benefits and are available in different configurations, sizes, and materials. The most important aspect to consider when selecting a waterproof bulkhead connector is its voltage and current rating.
High Insulation Resistance
Bulkhead connectors offer high insulation resistance and are able to withstand exposure to various environmental conditions. They can withstand vibration, varying temperature levels, and chemical exposure without any damage to the electrical components inside the connectors. This makes them ideal for use in harsh environments, including marine applications.
Choosing the right waterproof bulkhead connector depends on several factors, including cost, quality, and the specific needs of the application. It is important to balance cost with other crucial factors like durability and environmental conditions, as selecting a cheap connector that does not meet the requirements of the application could lead to increased maintenance and repair costs down the road.
Many engineers choose off-the-shelf sealed bulkhead connectors to pass power and signal wires through pressure or vacuum chamber walls. However, these connectors often drive up the overall project cost and impose unnecessary mechanical design constraints and electrical waterproof bulkhead connectors problems in the system. Instead, engineers can opt for hermetically sealed wire feedthroughs that are customized to fit their application and provide more flexibility for design. They also ensure that the electrical connections are secure and protected against water ingress.
Easy to Install
A bulkhead mount connector is a type of electrical connector that attaches to a product casing, enclosure or panel from the front or rear side. It is typically threaded, but can also be push-pull or M style. Many hermetic connectors are available in bulkhead mount versions, making them suitable for use in environments where water ingress is a concern.
Installation of the Cobalt waterproof bulkhead connector was straightforward. The existing holes in the firewall were a perfect fit for it, and it only required a little bit of grinding to make sure that it could be inserted all the way into the hole.
After the bulkhead was mounted, the next step was to install all the wires. This involved stripping each wire close to its pin, crimping it onto the new pins and then inserting them into the plugs. I also used some heat shrink tubing to help keep the wires separated and protected. Once everything was plugged in, it was ready to go!
Easy to Disconnect
One way to make a waterproof connection is to pass the cable through an enclosure and use glue or sealant to secure it in place. This method can be effective, but it requires that the surface of the enclosure and the cable be prepared properly and that the glue/sealant sticks well. In addition, it’s possible that pulling or bending stress can cause a leak in the sealant.
A better solution is to use a bulkhead connector that is designed to be easy to disconnect without damaging the hermetic seal. These types of bulkhead connectors are available in a variety of interfaces including RF types (BNC, TNC, and N-Type), rectangular styles (D-subs and rack and panel) and circular types (MIL-Spec and commercial equivalent styles, push-pull style, and M style).
If you’re looking for a waterproof bulkhead connector that can be easily disconnected, look no further than the Cobalt series from Blue Trail Engineering. waterproof connector manufacturer These connectors are much less expensive than other waterproof options and can be mated underwater with a depth rating of up to 600 meters.
Durable
Waterproof bulkhead connectors come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Choosing the right one for an application is essential to minimize signal loss and prevent equipment failure. Considering important factors like contact size, voltage rating, and environmental conditions is an excellent way to narrow down your options.
Water ingress is a common problem that can cause performance losses, electrical failures, and costly equipment replacement. This is especially true for applications that operate in harsh environments, such as outdoor security cameras that are exposed to extreme weather conditions or industrial equipment that undergoes frequent cleaning processes and water submersion.
Waterproof connectors are designed to withstand harsh environments by protecting against water, dust, and vapor. They typically feature a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, with different levels of protection based on the level of water immersion and exposure to other environmental elements, such as high temperatures, saltwater vapor, and steam. The SEA-MATE range of waterproof bulkhead connectors, for example, is wet-pluggable and offers full protection from the elements in subsea and underwater applications. Their design also allows users to make connections in-field without having to break apart a system or use expensive Y-assemblies.
Versatile
When operating in harsh industrial settings, the reliability and durability of electrical connections are non-negotiable attributes. Waterproof bulkhead connectors excel in these environments by providing robust resistance to environmental factors, including mechanical vibrations, temperature variations, and exposure to chemicals.
In marine navigation systems, for example, the corrosive effects of saltwater pose a real threat to the integrity of encapsulated machinery. To address this issue, VELLE’s waterproof bulkhead connectors were employed in the system to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. This solution prevented data loss and reduced maintenance costs, ultimately ensuring the safety of navigational systems aboard ships at sea.
Waterproof bulkhead connectors also feature versatile design, allowing them to be used in a wide range of applications. Their circular shape facilitates seamless connection between equipment and wiring, minimizing downtime and optimizing efficiency. This versatility makes waterproof bulkhead connectors ideal for use in surveillance systems, telecommunications infrastructure, and industrial automation, where high-quality, interference-free communication is critical to success. Moreover, waterproof bulkhead connectors can be easily mounted in panels and enclosures, making them easy to install or replace without requiring major disassembly.