Electronics Potting Compounds

“”

Electronic Potting & Encapsulating Compound FAQs:

What is potting in electronics?

In electronics, potting refers to the process of fully encasing an electronic component in a mold, or “pot,” with a gelatinous compound, such as epoxy. This process is commonly used with high-voltage assemblies, such as transformers and switchboards, to permanently protect the assembly from shock, vibration, corrosive agents, moisture, and water.

Which material types are safe for electronics?

There are numerous electrical potting compound materials that are safe for electronics. For your next potting project, consider the following potting compounds for electronics:

• Silicone Potting Compound: Our AM 150 Silicone Potting and Encapsulation Rubber is safe for potting electrical circuits and works great with marine and automotive applications. Our silicone potting compound can also be used for making molds for low-melt metals. Once cured, the silicone electrical potting compound is flame-resistant and has excellent mechanical properties. Silicone potting compounds are often used for applications where higher levels of thermal shock are involved or for temperature-sensitive components.
• Epoxy Resin: Electronic epoxy encapsulant potting compounds are also safe for electronics, as long as fast-cure hardeners aren’t used, which can generate heat during the curing process. Our 300/11 Dielectric Potting Compound is a high-performance epoxy that can be used for potting and encapsulating electronic circuits. This electrical potting compound epoxy system can also be used as a dielectric barrier when used as a coating. Epoxy resins are great due to their impressive high heat performance, mechanical properties, and chemical resistance.

• Urethane Potting Compound: Urethane potting compounds are safe for encapsulating circuitry and splicing cables. Our Underwater 75A Urethane Potting Compound works great for marine applications. It is made for immersion in marine water, but can be used for other applications as well, and is for pour-only applications. Urethane potting compounds are often used for delicate applications because they are elastomeric and have faster process times.

How do I use potting and encapsulating compounds on electronics?

Do you have electrical equipment you’d like to encapsulate or pot? If so, it’s important you follow the right steps. To use electronic potting compound to safeguard your electronics, read below:

• Step 1: Gather all necessary equipment, including mixing cups, a metal or plastic stirring utensil, nitrile gloves, potting compound, breathing apparatus or respirator, and your electrical equipment.
• Step 2: Measure out by volume equal parts A and B into separate clean plastic containers and pour into a third mixing container. Stir with a metal or plastic stirring utensil.
• Step 3: Pour the mixed potting compound into a second mixing cup and mix again to ensure the chemicals are fully combined. (This step can be skipped when using the Urethane Potting Compound)
• Step 4: Slowly pour your potting compound into one corner of the mold or case of your electrical components. The product will spread on its own which will help prevent air bubbles.
• Step 5: Allow your epoxy resin circuit board potting compound to cure, typically 24 hours, although the cure time can be longer if only a small amount of material is used.

Sometimes, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to remove potting compound. Potting compounds are extremely tough and durable, which is why they’re commonly used to protect fragile electrical equipment. Because of this, removal can be extremely difficult. The best way to remove an electronic potting compound is by using a solvent that will slowly soften the potting compound and picking away at it with a sharp tool such as a putty knife or file.

When removing electrical potting compound, it’s important you stay safe. Work in a well-ventilated area with a breathing apparatus or respirator and carefully pick away at the potting compound without accidentally cutting wires or other pieces of your electrical equipment. It is very difficult to remove cured epoxy and urethane potting compound without damaging the items underneath so make sure your parts are finalized before applying these products.