Rocker-style switches are found in everything from industrial machinery to marine electrical systems and much more. When properly maintained, these switches deliver long-lasting performance. However, while rocker switches often have an internal seal, this may not be enough to prevent unwanted substances from entering the electrical panel.
Rocker switch boots are an effective solution to this problem. Made from durable, seamless silicone, these boots cover both the switch itself and the surrounding panel cut-out, forming a liquid- and gas-tight seal. This added external protection ensures contaminants are unable to enter the electrical panel, safeguarding equipment performance.
As the world’s first sealing boot manufacturer, APM Hexseal has been designing innovative sealing solutions for the world’s most rigorous operating environments for over 70 years. Our history of rocker switch boot technology dates back to 1947. Today, we proudly offer industry-leading products designed for reliability under extreme conditions.
Key Features and Benefits of APM’s Rocker Switch Boots
APM Hexseal’s rocker switch boots have been trusted by the world’s most demanding industries for decades. They offer a range of beneficial properties, including:
Watertight, Dust-Tight Sealing for Harsh Environments
Rocker switch boots from APM Hexseal cover the rocker actuator itself and fully enclose the switch bezel. Our products feature a molded, continuous sealing rib that forms a tight seal against the front panel. This highly effective design provides complete protection against unwanted substances, even under the most demanding environmental conditions.
Once in place, the switches provide dustproof and waterproof protection equivalent to NEMA 4X/6P (or similar). Our boots provide complete protection from humidity, debris, rain, salt spray, and other unwanted substances, such as:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Sand
- Solvents
- Oil
- Water
By preventing these substances from entering the electrical panel, our boots prolong the lifespan of critical equipment. Without dirt and corrosion, you’ll experience fewer switch failures, reduced maintenance requirements, and better system reliability.
High-Performance Silicone Construction With RUBRGLAS™
APM Hexseal’s rocker boots are manufactured from molded RUBRGLAS™, our proprietary silicone rubber material that is exceptionally tough, tear-resistant, and transparent. RUBRGLAS™ maintains an airtight seal even under high-pressure or high-vibration conditions. It is suitable for a wide range of operating temperatures, between -80 °F to +400 °F (-62 °C to +204 °C), making it a suitable option for both high-heat and sub-zero conditions.
As a type of silicone, RUBRGLAS™ is resistant to many harsh environmental conditions, including:
- Chemicals
- Fungus
- Saltwater
- Oils
- Ozone
- UV radiation
Rocker switch boots made from RUBRGLAS™ are suitable for both indoor and outdoor industrial use. They remain in peak operating condition even with prolonged exposure to harsh environmental conditions, without degrading or discoloring. Since RUBRGLAS™ is transparent, the switch position and indicator light remain easily viewable through the boot.
Reliable Long-Term Performance
Our boots undergo rigorous testing to verify their long-term durability. They have successfully endured over 50,0000 actuations without failure, making them compatible with long-life products. Rocker switch boots from APM Hexseal are UL recognized and have been independently tested for sealing performance and safety.
These products are designed to meet demanding MIL-DTL-5423 specifications, the military’s stringent sealing standard for switch boots. We guarantee quality by manufacturing every product from our ISO 9001:2015 certified production facilities in New Jersey. Our rigorous quality control procedures ensure every product matches your exacting standards.
Easy Installation and Compatibility
Our boots are fast, easy, and tool-free to install. Simply slip or snap them over the switch actuator and frame. No special preparation or messy adhesives are required. We manufacture a large product line, with options compatible with many common switch series, including:
- Carling Technologies
- Eaton/Arrow Hart
- Eaton/Heinemann
- Sensata
In addition, APM rocker switch boots are reusable throughout your switch’s lifespan. Remove them effortlessly at any time and reinstall when needed in the future, without experiencing any performance issues. Once in place, they require no maintenance, making them an ideal solution for remote installations.
The APM Hexseal Difference: Experience and Innovation
As pioneers in sealing technology, APM Hexseal has a long legacy of quality and innovation. Our founder invented the original switch boot for the U.S. military in the 1940s, helping to establish today’s MIL-B-5423 standards. Since then, we’ve manufactured over 50 million sealing boots that have been trusted by diverse industry professionals around the world. We serve every industrial sector, providing exceptional-quality, American-made products backed by full engineering support.
Product Range, Options, and Customization
We offer rocker boots in several dimensions and configurations to ensure compatibility with diverse applications. Our part numbers include:
- 1113/62
- 1113/66
- 1113/70
- 1113/71
Review our sizing chart to determine which option will best fit your switches. We also offer several customization options, including alternative colors and opacities. While transparent silicone is our standard material, some customers prefer a custom translucent tint to match their panel’s appearance, or even a black silicone for outdoor applications.
You can also customize your product’s hardness level, opting for a specific durometer depending on the ruggedness your application requires. No matter what your design goals are, our team can develop the ideal solution. If you need assistance finding the right fit for your switch model, our team is always happy to help.
Get Sealed Protection for Your Switches
APM Hexseal’s rocker switch boots are a time-tested method of protecting critical switches in harsh environments. Made from high-performance proprietary materials that can be customized to your needs, our boots will transform the reliability of your operations. With their easy installation and long lifespan, our products are the simplest way to prevent costly equipment failure due to contaminant ingress.
If you’re interested in improving your rocker switch sealing, our team is ready to help. Our experts are always available to assist with product selection or custom inquiries. Contact our engineering team with any questions or request a quick quote to get started. Try our industry-leading products today and keep your switches performing reliably for years to come!
