Coating, Potting, and Encapsulating: Three Products that will do the Job
Potting compounds and encapsulants from brands like Chem-Set and QSi can handle the rigors of high heat, moisture, vibration, and other outside influences. Their ability to do so is important, as they’re typically tasked with protecting delicate components like electrical systems and Printed Circuit Boards (PCB’s). In this blog we’ll cover a trio of trusted products that have long guarded against moisture, dust, and other contaminants in applications like automobiles and military devices.
Addition Cure Silicones
Addition curing systems, like the 412 LED and QSil 210 detailed below, are two part silicones that must be mixed with a catalyst in order to initiate a cure. Ideal of course for potting and encapsulation, addition curing systems can easily handle issues that can manifest due to section thickness.
The Chem-Set 412 LED Compound is a two component, addition cure silicone encapsulant used in safeguarding PCB’s. Chem-Set 412 is available in 50ML and 1500ML cartridges and has a convenient mix ratio of 1:1. The 412 can fully cure within 48 hours and if you’re looking to speed up the process, simply up the temperature.
Features
- Transparent
- Low Linear Shrinkage
- Medium Viscosity
- Fast Cure
- UV Resistant
Keeping with the theme of coating, encapsulating, and potting, the Chem-Set 033 Gel is a silicone gel that fights against the effects of moisture, vibration, and thermal or mechanical shock. This tough, clear elastomer can cure to most substrates at room temperature and pulls its proverbial weight by providing a protective barrier against moisture and the elements. Compared to its counterpart, the 412 LED Compound, the 033 Gel is self healing and repairable, making it a long term solution for your potting and coating needs.
Advantages
- Cures at room temperature
- UV resistant
- Self Healing and repairable
- Outstanding dielectric strength
- Self leveling
- Offers good protection against vibration and thermal/mechanical shock
- Excellent at repelling moisture
- Easy 1:1 mix ratio
The QSil 210, from Quantum Silicones, is a two component silicone that cures to a soft rubber with excellent mechanical properties, good shelf life, and extremely low fluid bleed. This addition cure formula is ideal for applications that need a low durometer translucent material, and can be easily leveraged for casting durable yet soft, skin-like shapes. This comes into play many times for applications like special effects, skin replication, and highly specialized applications that call for pigmentation and elongation.
Features
- Low Viscosity
- Translucent hue
- High Elongation (greater than 800%)
- Rapid de-mold time
- Good retention of additional fluid
If you’re interested in knowing more about potting and encapsulant silicones, visit our products page and browse the many product options beyond what we covered today. You can also always get a hold of one of our friendly representatives for help, advice, or customer service of any sort!
[email protected] – 800.220.1966
