Precured Gel - Pads and Parts

Connector sealant pads combine two effects to create a seal.  First, under compression, the gel/foam layer 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.  Secondly, once the surfaces are in contact, the dynamics 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 light 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.