1. Key points for selecting waterproof rubber ring materials
The material of the waterproof rubber ring plays a decisive role in the waterproof performance of the LED neon light. First of all, the material must have good weather resistance and be able to resist the erosion of ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes, humidity and other factors in long-term outdoor use without aging, hardening or deformation. For example, silicone rubber is a commonly used high-quality material. It has excellent high and low temperature resistance and can maintain good elasticity and sealing performance in the range of -50℃ to 200℃. Secondly, the hardness of the material should be moderate. If it is too soft, it is easy to deform excessively when under pressure and lose the sealing effect. If it is too hard, it may not fit the sealing surface tightly. Generally speaking, the Shore hardness between 40-60 degrees is more appropriate, which can not only ensure good sealing, but also adapt to a certain degree of assembly tolerance. In addition, the compression permanent deformation rate of the material should be low, so that it can still return to its original state after long-term pressure and maintain sealing performance.
2. Structural design elements of waterproof rubber ring
In terms of structural design, the cross-sectional shape of the waterproof rubber ring is crucial. Common ones are O-shaped, square, D-shaped, etc. O-shaped rubber rings have a simple structure and strong versatility, but in some cases of high pressure or special sealing requirements, square or D-shaped rubber rings may be more suitable. For example, D-shaped rubber rings have better stability when subjected to unidirectional pressure. The size design of the rubber ring should be precise, and its inner diameter and outer diameter should be closely matched with the installation part. The thickness of the rubber ring should also be reasonably determined according to the sealing pressure and gap size. At the same time, a suitable sealing groove should be designed at the installation part of the rubber ring. The depth, width and surface roughness of the sealing groove will affect the sealing effect of the rubber ring. For example, the depth of the sealing groove should be slightly smaller than the cross-sectional diameter of the rubber ring, so that the rubber ring can have a certain amount of compression after installation. Generally, the compression amount is controlled between 15%-30% to ensure good sealing contact pressure.
3. Collaborative design of overall waterproof structure
The waterproofing of led neon light cannot rely solely on waterproof rubber rings, but also requires the coordination of the overall waterproof structure. Multiple waterproof structures should be designed at the connection parts of the lamp body, such as the lamp tube and the end cover, the power cord lead-out part, etc. In addition to rubber ring sealing, sealant potting can be used to further enhance the waterproof effect. For example, at the power cord lead-out part, first pass the power cord through the waterproof rubber ring, and then fill the waterproof sealant around it to form a double waterproof barrier. The design of the lamp body shell should also take into account the waterproof requirements. The joints of the shell should be fixed with tight buckles or screws, and with sealing strips or rubber rings to prevent moisture from penetrating from the shell gaps. In addition, for adjustable or movable parts, such as the angle adjustment device of the lamp body, a special waterproof structure should be designed to ensure that the corresponding waterproof level can also be achieved in these parts.
4. Testing and optimization of waterproof performance
To ensure the waterproof level, strict testing is essential. According to relevant standards, such as IP protection level standards, waterproof tests are carried out on LED neon lights. The tests include water spray tests, immersion tests, etc. Under different test conditions, observe whether there is water ingress inside the lamp body. According to the test results, the waterproof rubber ring design and the overall waterproof structure are optimized. If water seepage is found in the sealing part of the rubber ring, it may be necessary to adjust the material hardness, size or sealing groove design of the rubber ring. Through continuous testing and optimization, the waterproof level of LED neon light is gradually improved, so that it can adapt to various complex outdoor use environments and ensure the reliability and service life of the product.