Underwater Potting Compounds

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Underwater Potting Compound FAQs:

What makes a good underwater or marine potting compound?

What makes a great waterproof encapsulating compound or potting compound are urethane elastomers. Urethane elastomers, offer excellent water resistance and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for underwater applications. If you have an underwater junction box for deep sea instrumentation, for example, underwater potting compound will fully encapsulate the circuitry of the junction box to ensure water doesn’t damage any components that can cause this to break.

How do I use waterproof potting compound?

Underwater electrical potting compounds are extremely moisture-sensitive until cured, so make sure you’re working in a humidity-controlled environment that’s between 65F and 75F. To use underwater potting compound, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Gather all materials, including your electrical equipment, shell, mold, or case; three plastic cups, metal or plastic mixing utensil, nitrile gloves, and a breathing apparatus or respirator.
• Step 2: Shake both Part A and Part B of your waterproof potting compound system vigorously. 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 mixing utensil.
• Step 3: 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 4: Allow your underwater potting compound to cure, typically 12 hours, although the cure time can be longer if only a small amount of material is used.

If you are adding multiple layers of underwater electrical potting compound, make sure each layer is completely cured before pouring the next layer. AeroMarine Products’ Underwater Potting Compound has a cure time of 12 hours and a work-life of 5 minutes.

Can I use underwater potting compound for other projects?

Yes, underwater potting compound can be used for other projects. Use in projects where you may find yourself using waterproof potting compounds include encapsulating circuitry and electrical appliances on marine craft, potting electrical equipment such as fishing lights or buoys, or encapsulating wires on an electrical device that will be submerged in water.

There are numerous potting applications that exist for a variety of fields, such as automotive, aerospace, lighting, electronics, and industrial. While urethanes are great for underwater applications, they have a wide range of elastomeric characteristics, which makes them suitable for projects that require stiff flexible bonds.