Abstract: An electrical connector having a metallic housing about an insulative insert is hermetically sealed. Both the seal area of the housing and the seal surface of the insulative insert are roughened and cleaned. The seal area of the housing is primed with a primer which is dried prior to assembly of the insert and the electrically conductive contacts within the housing. The assembled connector is pre-heated, and a sealant is applied to the seal area of the housing and the seal surface of the insulative insert around the electrically conductive pins. The preferred sealant is an alumina-filled or aluminum nitride-filled epoxy based resin, mixed with a catalyst and a reactive diluent and degassed in a vacuum. The sealant is applied to the connector and allowed to set-up prior to curing at an elevated temperature.

Abstract: A process for providing hermetically sealed electrical connectors is provided. This process is applicable to both new parts and existing connectors which need to be reworked due to the development of a leak. The process utilizes a plastic connector housing which provides the advantages of low cost and easy moldability or machineability.