Hermetic connectors are a specialized category within the connector field focused on preventing gas leakage. What is the fundamental difference between them and common waterproof connectors? Can they substitute for each other?
Four Questions and Answers on Hermetic vs. Waterproof Connectors
01. Q: What is the difference in what they protect against?
Waterproof Connectors: Primarily prevent liquid water and dust from intruding into the connector interior.
Hermetic Connectors: Focus on preventing gaseous substances from permeating or leaking through the connector's internal structure or materials.
02. Q: What is the difference in their failure mechanisms?
Waterproof Connectors: Failure typically occurs when external water pressure exceeds the limit that the connector's physical sealing structure can withstand.
Hermetic Connectors: Failure involves gas molecules diffusing through the crystal lattice of the sealing material itself or permeating through extremely minute structural gaps.
03. Q: Can they be used in vacuum systems?
Waterproof Connectors: Not suitable for vacuum systems. Their sealing design is not optimized to prevent gas leakage into a vacuum environment.
Hermetic Connectors: Can be used in vacuum systems, but their suitability depends on the specific leakage rate. The smaller the leakage rate, the better it can meet the requirements of more demanding vacuum systems.
04. Q: Can they be used interchangeably?
All industrial-grade hermetic connectors possess robust waterproof performance.
Connectors that only have waterproof performance (e.g., IP68 rating) cannot achieve true hermeticity.
Generally, hermetic connectors can replace purely waterproof connectors, but the reverse is not true.
LP20 Hermetic Connector: Evolving from a Classic, Leaping in Performance
The CNLINKO LP20 series industrial connector is a widely acclaimed classic product. Its latest iteratively upgraded version is a high-performance hermetic connector. It has not only passed the rigorous 500KPa hermetic test (leak-free) but also inherits the excellent genes of the LP series.
01. Outstanding Hermetic Function, Industrial-Grade Gas Leak Prevention
The aforementioned CNLINKO LP20 Hermetic Connector, through structural optimizations (such as adding special sealing gaskets + conformal coating process), effectively prevents gas from permeating into the connector interior or leaking through its internal structure.
Tested at 500KPa pressure, this CNLINKO hermetic connector maintains zero leakage, making it fully suitable for applications with high hermetic requirements like industrial automation, detection equipment, and gas sensing.
02. Exceptionally Capable Waterproofing, IP68/IPX9K Even in Unmated State
While hermetic connectors generally possess high water resistance, few products can achieve high waterproof ratings (IP68/IPX9K) even in the unmated (non-conducting) state.
Through designs like adding waterproof seals between modules, the LP20 Hermetic Connector achieves IP68 and IPX9K protection ratings in both the mated and unmated states, offering more comprehensive and reliable protection.
03. As User-Friendly as Ever, Inheriting the LP Series' Excellent Traits
As a market-favored industrial connector, the LP20 inherits the superior characteristics of the LP series:
① Easy Operation: Features a snap-fit direct plug-in connection structure, supporting one-handed mating and unmating for quick connection and disconnection. It is an ideal choice for high-frequency plugging/unplugging and scenarios requiring rapid operation.
② Wide Temperature Range Adaptability: An operating temperature range of -40°C to +120°C, capable of withstanding extreme cold or outdoor summer heat and exposure.
③ Long Mating Cycle Life: A high mating durability of over 2000 cycles, far exceeding the industry standard of 500 cycles, making it more durable and ensuring longer-lasting, stable electrical connection performance.
In summary, with its excellent hermetic properties, comprehensive protection capabilities, and reliable industrial-grade performance, this LP20 Hermetic Connector stands out as a top-tier product among its peers.