SP21 IP68 Waterproof Aviation Connector – 2–12 Pin Male & Female Butt Docking for Industrial Use

SP21 series IP68-rated waterproof aviation connectors for industrial outdoor and underwater equipment wiring. The SP21 designation refers to the 21mm opening diameter circular connector series with IP68 rating — submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes (or deeper, depending on the specific variant). IP68 exceeds the IP67 rating of standard GX series connectors, making SP21 suitable for applications with prolonged water immersion: underwater lighting, submersible pump wiring, marine below-waterline connections, and outdoor equipment in flood-prone areas.

Key Specifications

• Series: SP21 (21mm opening diameter)
• Pin Configurations: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 12 pin (select above)
• IP Rating: IP68 (submersible)
• Current Rating: 5–10A per contact (pin count dependent)
• Voltage Rating: 250V AC/DC
• Contact Material: Copper alloy, gold-plated
• Body Material: Zinc alloy or PA66 nylon, nickel-plated
• Configuration: Butt docking (both halves on cable ends)

IP67 vs IP68 — When IP68 is Required

• IP67: Submersion to 1m for 30 minutes. Suitable for: rain exposure, temporary splashing, accidental immersion. Standard for most outdoor industrial connectors (GX series, Deutsch DT, M12).
• IP68 (this product): Continuous submersion beyond 1m (depth and duration specified by manufacturer). Required for: underwater lighting, submersible pump wiring, below-waterline marine connections, and outdoor equipment in areas subject to flooding or prolonged water immersion. IP68 connectors use more robust sealing — typically double O-rings and higher-compression cable entry seals.
• Selection rule: Use IP67 for outdoor applications with rain and splash exposure. Use IP68 only when the connector will be continuously submerged or subject to prolonged immersion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the submersion depth rating for SP21 IP68 connectors?

The standard IP68 rating for SP21 connectors is typically 1–3 meters continuous submersion. The exact depth and duration depend on the specific variant — verify the manufacturer’s datasheet for the specific submersion rating. For deeper underwater applications (ROVs, underwater cameras, deep submersible equipment), use connectors specifically rated for the required depth with pressure-tested sealing.

Can I use SP21 connectors for underwater LED lighting?

Yes. SP21 IP68 connectors are suitable for underwater LED lighting connections in pools, ponds, and fountains at standard installation depths (1–3m). Ensure the cable entry seal is correctly sized for the cable OD and fully compressed. Use marine-grade cable (double-insulated, UV-resistant) for the cable run. Inspect the O-rings annually and replace if cracked or deformed — O-ring degradation is the most common cause of IP68 seal failure over time.

How does SP21 compare to GX20 for outdoor industrial use?

SP21 (IP68) provides higher water ingress protection than GX20 (IP67). For outdoor industrial applications with rain and splash exposure only, GX20 IP67 is adequate and lower cost. For applications with prolonged water immersion or flooding risk, SP21 IP68 provides the necessary protection. SP21 also typically has a more robust sealing design with double O-rings compared to the single O-ring on standard GX connectors.

What cable OD does the SP21 cable entry accommodate?

SP21 cable entry seals typically accommodate cable OD of 6–10mm. Verify the specific cable entry range against your cable OD before ordering. Using cable outside the seal range will not achieve IP68 — the seal must compress firmly around the cable jacket to prevent water ingress.

Typical Applications

• Underwater lighting: Pool, pond, and fountain LED light connections
• Submersible pumps: Power and control connections for submersible water pumps
• Marine: Below-waterline connections on boats and marine equipment
• Outdoor industrial: Equipment in flood-prone areas or subject to prolonged rain exposure
• Agricultural irrigation: Submersible pump wiring in irrigation systems

Package Contents

1 set — SP21 IP68 waterproof aviation connector: male plug + female socket (pin count as selected). O-rings, cable entry seals, and coupling nut included.