Underwater connection - what do you think about these?

Thread Starter

RyanKH

Joined Dec 26, 2010
8
I am working on a project that involves an underwater connection. I've found some products to make the connection, and I'm curious what you think.

I am sending 12 volts through each pin (one pin at a time). I can't seal or shirnk-wrap the connection because I need the ability to connect and disconnect it.

What do you think?

http://www.birns.com/rubk.html

and/or

http://www.kinsun.com/product_detail.php?s=139

Thanks!

-Ryan
 

thatoneguy

Joined Feb 19, 2009
6,359
Will it be connected/disconnected above water, then used underwater, or are you looking for something for connection/disconnection underwater?

The Birns are the choice for the first case and sometimes the second. You see those on Jet-Skis, etc.

What current levels are you working with?
 

retched

Joined Dec 5, 2009
5,207
The second are reliable, and possibly overkill.

I would go with the birns RMK 2 conductor version if I was choosing between the two.
 

Thread Starter

RyanKH

Joined Dec 26, 2010
8
Thanks! They would be connected dry/above water, and then put in the water.

Where do you purchase Birns products? Can my local electrical supply shop order them?

-Ryan
 

marshallf3

Joined Jul 26, 2010
2,358
I think they're all going to be too expensive to consider. 12V only barely travels through water, try looking at some of the automotive connector choices which aren't cheap either but perhaps a better choice. I think GM calls theirs a Weatherpack connector: http://www.electerm.com/packardweather.html

Normally sold as kits to auto techs but you can buy the specific ones you want on eBay from what I hear.
Just about anything automotive is likely to be fine.
 

thatoneguy

Joined Feb 19, 2009
6,359
Automotive connectors will work if you are dealing with freshwater only. That is, no salts or other ionizing materials added to increase conductance or oxidation (rust) rate of fresh water.

How often will this be disconnected and connected? If the "cycle count" is low, then automotive type connectors would be a low cost solution. If the connectors are to endure hundreds of cycles, or will be used in saltwater environments, your original picks would be a better choice.
 
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