For the original article and more information, please visit: How to ensure correct use of your SubConn connectors 


Follow these instructions carefully to ensure correct use of your SubConn® connectors.


Handling

  • Connectors must be greased with MOLYKOTE® 44 Medium before every mating
  • Always grease O-rings on BH, BCR and FCR connectors with Molykote 111
  • Disconnect by pulling straight out, not at an angle
  • Do not pull on the cable and avoid sharp bends at cable entry
  • When using a bulkhead connector, ensure that there are no angular loads
  • Make sure to apply the recommended torque when tightening bulkhead nuts
  • SubConn connectors should not be exposed to extended periods of heat or direct sunlight. If a connector becomes very dry, it should be soaked in fresh water before use
  • All current ratings are based on the connector being submerged in water
  • The locking sleeve must be hand-tightened only


Greasing products



Greasing and mating above water (dry-mate)


  • Connectors must be greased with MOLYKOTE® 44 medium before every mating
  • A layer of grease corresponding to a minimum of 1/10 of the socket depth should be applied to the female connector
  • The inner edge of all sockets should be completely covered, and a thin layer of grease left visible on the face of the connector
  • After greasing, fully mate the male and female connector in order to secure optimal distribution of grease on all contacts and in the sockets
  • To confirm that grease has been sufficiently applied, de-mate and check for grease on every male contact. Then re-mate the connector


Cleaning products

  • General cleaning and removal of any accumulated contaminations on a connector should be performed using spray-based contact cleaner (Isopropyl alcohol)
  • New grease must be applied again prior to mating

Thread locking of connectors

  • All threads shall be clean and free of any foreign particles
  • Ensure the threaded hole is clean and free from foreign particles
  • For locking metallic connectors, the use of LOCTITE® 243 is recommended
  • Always use LOCTITE® 5970 to lock non-metallic (PEEK) connectors

Note: Acetone creates stress-induced cracking in PEEK material


Inline recommended bending radius

Recommended oil for pressure-balanced systems:

  • MacArtney recommends DC-200/350 or PMX-200/350 in oil-compensated systems


Additional coax information

  • Dry mating only
  • Not suitable for open-face pressure or water-block applications
  • Locking sleeves are required
  • A dummy connector is required when coax connectors are unmated


Greasing of coax:

  • Avoid greasing the actual coax, only grease the rubber parts
  • After greasing, fully mate the male and female coax connector
  • To confirm that grease has been sufficiently applied, de-mate and check for grease on every male contact, and confirm nothing has been applied to the coax. Then re-mate the connector