Gels combine two effects to create a seal. First, under compression gels can
conform around a variety of objects or irregular surfaces, so that the gel is
in contact with the entire surface of the object to be sealed. Then, once the
surfaces are in contact, the thermodynamics of the system favors the coating
of the surface by the gel versus by air or water. It is the combination of
the gel's ability to conform around a surface as well as to coat (or wet) the
surface that allows it to seal against air and water.
The gel grommet seal must be contained and put under pressure to create
compression for optimal sealing. A recessed cavity is required at the rear of
the connector to hold the gel seal. The seal recess must fully contain the
sides of the gel seal, as this is the primary sealing interface. Compression
is applied to the gel by use of a cap that locks onto the rear of the
connector. The gel seal will be compressed between the bottom surface of the
connector seal recess and the compression cap. The gap between the bottom
surface of the connector seal recess and the compression cap must be designed
and controlled to apply the proper amount of compression to the gel to achieve
an effective seal.
Gel seals are designed for multiple contact insertions and removals. The soft
nature of gels allows them to re-heal and reestablish their seal.
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