Abstract: An electrical connector, for use in underwater applications. The connector comprises a male component having a least one contact pin and a female component having a contact module. The male and female components engage, in use, to form a watertight electrical connection between the at least one contact pin and the contact module. The female component further comprises a biassing module, which comprises a first biassing means and a second biassing means. The first biassing means is located radially within the second biassing means with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female component. The first biassing means such that the biassing strength of the biassing module can be tailored to control the insertion rate of the male connector during coupling of the male component to the female component accommodating large variations in axial engagement length.

Abstract: A sealing system for use with a sub-sea connector. The sealing system comprises an actuation sleeve retaining a ball valve within the exposed end of the sleeve and a valve control system connecting the ball valve to an actuation member and applying a force to the ball valve such that it is urged into a closed position. A biassing means controls the sealing force of the ball valve.

Abstract: An electrical connector and method of making the electrical connection are disclosed for use in particularly arduous conditions, such as down hole oil production applications. The invention provides high electrical integrity with an ability to accommodate steady and/or fluctuating mechanical forces placed via the cable into the connector. Synergy between the mechanical and electrical aspects of the design is taught in which an insulating member, fitted with annular upstands, co-operates with a mechanically soft, essentially incompressible, insulating substance (gel) to cause vibrations in the cable to be dissipated over a length of the insulated cores inside the connector rather that at a single point where it would cause the core to fracture. In addition, annular collars of the gel are provided between the insulating member and the crimped pin-core connections and between the annular upstands and insulated cores to give further cushioning.