Waterproof Wiring Connectors
Waterproof wiring connectors keep moisture and corrosion out of a connection, prolonging the lifespan of equipment and increasing safety. They can also help prevent electrical shorts and fire hazards.
These versatile wire connectors are ideal for use in outdoor or underground applications. They’re a time-saving alternative to mastic and tape and don’t require heating.
1. Heat Shrink Tube
Heat shrink tubes are a great choice for waterproof electrical connectors. They can easily be used over crimped connections to provide a stronger seal that will protect the splice from water or moisture. They also work well as strain relief for terminals and connectors, reducing flexing which can cause corrosion or physical damage. Many varieties of heat shrink tubing are available, including adhesive lined versions for additional protection against moisture and harsh environments.
When selecting a heat shrink tube, it’s important to consider its diameter and the environment in which you will use it. You’ll want to choose a sleeve that has a higher recovered diameter than the area it will be covering, since the material will shrink to about half its original size when heated. When choosing a material, consider the benefits each offers, such as chemical resistance and abrasion resistance.
Some types of heat shrink tubing have an inner layer of adhesive that melts and adheres to the wires or components it covers, providing more insulation and a strong bond. This option is often preferred in harsh environments, as it provides extra support and protection against moisture and corrosion. Some heat shrink tubing is also colored to allow for easy identification waterproof wiring connectors of specific components or wires within an electrical circuit. You can find this type of tubing online, at most hardware stores, or in a kit that includes a variety of colors and sizes to suit any project.
2. Adhesive-Lined Crimp or Solder Splices
Waterproof wire connectors are a must for outdoor electrical systems. Unlike tape, which loosens and disconnects from the wires, these insulators are made with moisture-resistant materials to keep your wiring system intact. They are available in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate different types of electrical wires, and they provide a tight seal that protects your work from environmental contamination. If you are using them in a flooded or damp area, consider choosing gel-filled connectors that are filled with a layer of silicone, grease, or petroleum to prevent corrosion of the exposed ends.
Heat shrink butt splice terminal connectors are another great option for waterproof electrical connections. These devices fit stranded copper wires in a range of gauge sizes and use adhesive meltable glue lined with an insulation sleeve to seal the connection when heated. They are typically used in marine environments to resist high-moisture conditions, but they can also be useful in any situation where a waterproof connection is required.
Before installing any type of insulated connector, you should always make sure that the power is turned off and that the ends of the wires are not alive. It is important to handle electrical wires with care, as they can cause serious injuries if you are not careful. Using tape instead of a crimp or solder-sealed connection is prone to loosening and degrading over time, so invest in waterproof connectors that will provide you with a long-lasting, effective electrical connection.
3. Grease-Filled Insulation Displacement Connectors
A tough, flame retardant nylon shell protects this connector from impacts and UV degradation. It also comes pre-filled with a silicone sealant that can provide protection against moisture and corrosion. It is designed as a one-use connection and can be used in damp or wet locations and above ground applications.
The 3M Scotchlok electrical insulation displacement connector 314-BOX makes inline, pigtail and tap connections on wire ends without stripping them. Its ‘U’ contact displaces the insulation and provides a quick, dependable electrical connection that simply snaps shut without twisting or stripping the wire. The connector is filled with a mineral oil-based grease that insulates the connection and helps prevent moisture from getting in. The connector is self-stripping and flame retardant, and it withstands temperatures up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit. It is UL Listed, CSA Certified and RoHS 2011/65/EU Compliant.
You can use a crimp style splice to connect the connector to the wires, or you can solder it in place. It is recommended that you coat the connector’s seal surfaces with dielectric grease to improve its resistance to water and dirt. Dielectric grease also serves as an excellent release agent for waterproof connector manufacturer hot melt adhesives. Years ago several of the major pump companies did a study on 4 different types of underwater splices and found that the best one to withstand moisture and corrosion was the simple heat shrink tube with an electrical tape wrap on it.
4. Adhesive-Lined Crimp or Solder Splices
Waterproof connectors can withstand harsh weather conditions, keeping electrical connections safe and effective for equipment around the home, office or warehouse. Without waterproof connectors, moisture can disrupt critical signals, corrode contacts and damage wires or equipment. By incorporating waterproof wiring connectors in your projects, you can prevent the onset of costly problems like these and extend the lifespan of your circuit connections.
These connectors come in a variety of sizes and colors for easy identification, with each model having a specific voltage rating that corresponds to its power capacity. Some are insulated, while others feature no insulation to expose the bare copper wire for easy soldering or crimping. They are also available in kits that include everything you need to complete your project.
Solder seal butt connectors feature a band of low melt solder that melts and bonds to the crimped connection after heat is applied. They are a good choice for areas that may be difficult to reach, as they can save time by eliminating the need for a separate soldering step. They are also more robust than a crimp, especially when subjected to vibration or tugging.
You will need a stripper tool to remove the insulation from the wire end, and then insert the stripped end into the waterproof solder connector. Make sure that the bare copper wire is fully inserted into the connector before applying heat.
