LD28/SP28 Panel Mount Connectors Dimensions and Materials
SD16/SP16 Waterproof Panel Mount Connector: Technical Overview and Selection Guide
This technical overview provides the essential specifications, dimensions, and material data for the SD16/SP16 waterproof panel mount connector series. It is intended for design engineers, maintenance technicians, and procurement specialists who need to verify mechanical fit, electrical ratings, and environmental suitability before integrating this connector into control systems, outdoor equipment, or industrial machinery. The information below focuses on the connector's construction, performance limits, and installation considerations to support a reliable selection decision.
Series Scope and Interface Identification
The SD16/SP16 series is a panel mount connector family designed for waterproof applications. The series includes both plug and socket configurations, with the SP16 typically representing the panel mount receptacle and the SD16 representing the cable-mounted plug. The interface is keyed to prevent mismating, and the connector is available in multiple pin counts to accommodate different circuit requirements. The panel mount version is designed for rear or front mounting onto an enclosure wall, providing a secure and sealed feed-through connection.
It is important to distinguish between the SD16 and SP16 components. The SD16 is the cable side (plug), while the SP16 is the panel side (socket). These are designed to mate with each other and are not interchangeable with other connector series. The mounting style is fixed to the panel, and the cable side is typically free-hanging or strain-relieved. The connector is not a field-wireable design; it is supplied with pre-terminated contacts or requires specific crimping tools.
Key Selection Criteria for the SD16/SP16 Connector
When evaluating this connector for your application, consider the following decision points:
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Electrical Ratings: Verify the rated current and voltage against your system requirements. The SD16/SP16 series is available with different contact sizes to support various current loads. Always check the specific pin count and contact rating for your chosen configuration.
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Environmental Protection: The connector is rated IP67 when mated, indicating protection against dust ingress and temporary immersion in water. This rating is only valid when the connector is properly mated and the locking mechanism is fully engaged. It is not rated for underwater use while unmated.
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Mechanical Fit: Confirm the panel cut-out dimensions and mounting hole pattern for the SP16 receptacle. The flange size and thread type must match your enclosure design. The connector is available with different mounting flange sizes, so verify the specific dimensions for your part number.
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Termination Method: The SD16 plug is typically supplied with solder or crimp contacts. The termination method affects assembly time and serviceability. Crimp contacts are recommended for high-volume production, while solder contacts are suitable for low-volume or repair work.
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Material Compatibility: The housing is made of PA66 (nylon) with a high-temperature rating. The contacts are gold-plated to ensure low contact resistance and corrosion resistance. Verify that the housing material is compatible with your operating environment, especially if exposed to chemicals or UV radiation.
Electrical and Mechanical Specifications
The following table summarizes the typical electrical and mechanical parameters for the SD16/SP16 series. These values are based on standard configurations and may vary with pin count and contact size.
| Parameter |
Value |
Notes |
| Rated Current |
5A to 10A (depending on contact size) |
Derate for high ambient temperatures |
| Rated Voltage |
250V AC/DC |
Verify for your specific application |
| Contact Resistance |
≤ 10 mΩ (initial) |
Measured at 1kHz, 1mA |
| Insulation Resistance |
≥ 1000 MΩ (at 500V DC) |
Between adjacent contacts |
| IP Rating |
IP67 (mated) |
Protection against dust and temporary immersion |
| Temperature Range |
-40°C to +85°C |
Operating temperature |
| Mating Cycles |
≥ 500 cycles |
Mechanical endurance |
| Housing Material |
PA66 (UL94 V-0) |
Flame retardant |
| Contact Plating |
Gold over nickel |
Corrosion resistant |
Note: The rated current is dependent on the contact size and the number of contacts in the connector. For continuous operation at high currents, consider the temperature rise within the enclosure. The IP67 rating is only guaranteed when the connector is mated and the locking ring is fully tightened.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Proper installation is critical to achieving the specified IP67 protection. The panel cut-out must be clean and free of burrs. The SP16 receptacle is mounted with a gasket or O-ring to seal the interface between the connector and the panel. The mounting screws should be tightened to the recommended torque to avoid over-compressing the gasket. The cable side (SD16) must be assembled with the correct cable gland or strain relief to maintain the seal at the cable entry point.
For maintenance, the connector is designed for occasional disconnection. Before unmating, ensure the power is off. Inspect the contacts for signs of corrosion or damage. If the connector is exposed to harsh environments, periodic cleaning of the contact surfaces is recommended. The gold-plated contacts do not require additional lubrication.
Application Fit and Boundaries
The SD16/SP16 connector is suitable for applications requiring a reliable waterproof connection in a compact panel mount format. Typical uses include LED lighting systems, outdoor sensors, industrial controls, and marine equipment. The connector is not suitable for high-vibration environments without additional strain relief or locking mechanisms. It is also not designed for high-frequency signal transmission; it is intended for power and low-speed signal applications.
For applications requiring a higher pin count or different mounting style, consider other series within the waterproof connector family. The SP28/SD28 series offers a larger form factor with higher current ratings. For a more compact solution, the SP13 series may be appropriate. Always verify the specific part number and its datasheet to confirm compatibility with your application.
Next Steps for Procurement and Design
To proceed with the SD16/SP16 connector, review the detailed dimensional drawings and pinout diagrams for your specific configuration. Confirm the panel cut-out dimensions and the required cable entry size. If you need assistance with part selection or have a custom requirement, please contact our engineering team with your application details. We can provide samples for testing and validation.
For a complete understanding of the connector's dimensions and materials, refer to the SD16/SP16 robust flange connector dimensions and materials article. For a comparison with other panel mount options, see the SP28/SD28 panel mount connector technical specifications.