Encapsulating and Potting Sealants

Silicone sealants are extremely versatile in the electrical and electronics assembly process. They can be used to attach components within electronic modules, as form-in-place gaskets, or to seal openings in the module to exclude dirt, water or other contaminants and to provide protection from exposure to extreme environmental conditions.

Encapsulants (or pottants) are used to completely embed and protect electronic circuitry. By completely isolating the circuits, elastomeric encapsulants provide superior protection from the harmful effects of chemical attack, humidity, extreme temperatures, moisture ingress and other contaminants. They also provide electrical insulation for high voltages.

Elastomeric sealants due to their stress relieving properties are also used to protect against damage to module components and interconnections due to mechanical stress, thermal stress, and vibration thereby significantly increasing the reliability of the electronic module or component.

Why do silicones excel in encapsulating and potting applications?

Silicone sealants possess inherent physical properties that make them an excellent choice for encapsulating or potting; silicone sealants:

• are easy to use and repair
• have excellent electrical properties
• are electrically insulating
• can be thermally conductive
• are flexible
• resist ultra-violet rays, ozone and weathering
• are non-corrosive
• have low toxicity
• are chemically resistant
• absorb mechanical shock and vibration
• are resistant to humidity, moisture and are water repellent
• have wide operating temperature range