Circular connectors are round-shaped connectors commonly used in various industrial applications, including underwater systems. They are typically designed to provide a robust and reliable electrical connection, often featuring locking mechanisms such as threaded couplings or bayonet locks, which enhance their stability and resistance to vibrations.
In underwater applications, circular connectors are often preferred over rectangular connectors for several reasons:
Sealing Capabilities: Circular connectors are often easier to seal against water ingress due to their simple geometry. O-rings or gaskets can be applied uniformly around the circular interface, making it easier to achieve a waterproof connection.
Durability and Vibration Resistance: The round design of circular connectors allows for better resistance to mechanical stress and vibrations, making them ideal for use in dynamic underwater environments such as submersible pumps or moving aquatic systems.
However, rectangular connectors are also used in certain underwater applications where space-saving or high pin density is required. They offer greater customization in pin configurations but may require more careful sealing to prevent water ingress.
Underwater wet-plug connectors are made of special materials and structures, and can be plugged and unplugged in deep-sea environments. They can effectively prevent water and pollutants from entering the connector, thereby ensuring the normal operation of the connector and realizing signal and power transmission. They are key components for large-scale deep-sea engineering construction such as submarine observation networks, submarine oil and gas extraction, and marine exploration and communication networks, and directly determine the performance, service life, and reliability of engineering facilities. Large-scale deep-sea engineering construction usually involves laying optical cables on the seabed and setting up multiple submarine nodes along the optical cables. Underwater wet-plug connectors achieve long-term and stable optical fiber and cable connections by connecting nodes one by one, supporting energy transmission, data collection, and backhaul, which is of great significance in the economic and national security fields.
