Types of Waterproof Automotive Wiring Connectors
Waterproof connectors create a tight seal to protect electrical connections in wet environments such as humidity, rain, snow, and saltwater. They also resist corrosion from harsh engine fluids and high temperatures.
These waterproof automotive wiring connectors feature male and female terminal pins and silicone rubber cable seals. The connectors are made from PA66 waterproof automotive wiring connectors nylon and 14AWG oxygen free copper wire, ensuring durability and conductivity.
1. Silicone Sealant
Silicone sealant can be used to waterproof wire nuts and connections. It is available in liquid form, which can be poured around the connectors, or in a tube that is inserted into a caulking gun. After the sealant is pressed around the connectors and cured, it forms a watertight, durable bond. Silicone sealants are a popular choice because they offer good resistance to oil, grease, and most other chemicals used in automotive applications.
The silicone in these sealants is also resistant to heat, so it can be used even in high-temperature applications. It also provides good electrical insulation, so it’s ideal for use with wiring. It can also be used to seal the ends of insulators, such as those on rubber-coated stranded wires.
In addition to waterproofing, silicone sealants can also be used to protect a connector from dust and dirt. This is especially important for connectors that will be exposed to harsh environmental conditions. In fact, one study found that 80% of electrical connector failures are due to poor environmental sealing. By choosing a waterproof connector with the right IP rating, you can avoid this type of problem and ensure that your connections are protected from moisture and other harmful contaminants. Waterproof connections can also help you save money by reducing the need to replace or repair damaged connectors.
2. Liquid Electrical Tape
This innovative liquid coating protects all types of electrical applications and connections from corrosion, abrasion and moisture. It dries fast and forms an airtight, protective, waterproof, UV resistant, dielectric coating. It also prevents vibration, which can loosen terminal or splice connections. It is easy to use and can be built-up with additional layers. This product is ideal for marine, automotive and home electronics such as speakers, circuit boards, toggle switches, battery terminal connections and more. It can also be used on plumbing projects, timers and underground wiring.
This electrical tape substitute goes on as a liquid and dries to a flexible vinyl polymer that will not crack, harden or peel. It offers superior electrical, acid, alkaline and abrasion resistance and is suitable in extreme temperatures ranging from -50 °F to 275 °F. It is odorless, VOC and lead free. This product is available in a convenient 4 oz. brush-top bottle.
Insulating tape is often used to seal spliced wires, but this technique falls short of adhering to strict code-compliant standards. It is best to utilize insulated connectors (also known as wire nuts) for electrical splices and terminal connections. These special caps are designed specifically for electrical splicing and provide far more efficient insulation than traditional sticky tape. They are readily available at hardware stores, automotive suppliers or electrical or electronic supply outlets.
3. Dielectric Grease
Dielectric grease is a lubricant and an insulator that’s made especially for electrical connections. It offers an insulation barrier that prevents oxidation and corrosion of metal parts while still allowing electric current to pass through. It is typically a mixture of silicone oils and thickening agents such as silica or clay. It’s important to follow the label directions for dielectric grease, as using too much or the wrong type can interrupt the flow of electricity and cause devices or systems to malfunction.
It’s a great idea to apply a small dab of it on the rubber covers and plastic plugs that seal and protect your car’s connectors. It helps prevent shorts across terminal pins and rusting or seizing of the rubber parts in your vehicle’s electrical components. It’s also a good idea to put a dab of it on the o-ring that seals the terminal of your battery. It can help prevent moisture and corrosion in the threads that screw onto it.
Some people confuse dielectric grease with silicone grease, which is another popular lubricant for electrical connections. However, the two have very different properties and applications. Dielectric grease is primarily waterproof bulkhead connector used as an insulator to protect against moisture and corrosion while silicone grease is mainly used as a lubricant to prevent metal-to-metal contact. In addition, dielectric grease stays pliable and doesn’t cure, while silicone grease hardens to a solid form.
4. Heat Shrink Tube
Heat shrink tubing is a type of sleeve that can be used to insulate and protect automotive wiring connectors. It is made from a polyolefin material that shrinks when heated and offers excellent abrasion, moisture and corrosion resistance. It also helps to prevent tangling and short-circuiting of the wires or terminals. Some types of heat shrink tube include an adhesive lining that is used to help bond the tubing to underlying cables and connectors. This creates strong seals that are also waterproof.
TE Connectivity offers a variety of heat shrink tubing that can be used for various applications. Their auto cable terminals can be protected with a variety of heat shrink tubing products. These include different sizes, constructions and lengths. Some are flame retardant and halogen free, making them ideal for use in demanding automotive environments.
When using heat shrink tubing, it is important to choose a size that is appropriate for the wire or component. The unshrunk diameter should be a bit larger than the largest diameter of the cable or connector that it will be covering, as the heat shrink tubing will shrink by about 5-15 percent when heated. Once the tube has been cut to a suitable length, it can be placed over the connector or wire. It should then be heated with a hot air gun until it has shrunk into place.