BH5M 5-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible

High-Performance 5-Pin Male Bulkhead Connector for Deep-Sea Applications

The BH5M 5-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector from HYSF SUBSEA is a high-performance subsea electrical connector designed to provide reliable power and signal connections through the pressure housings of underwater equipment.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the BH5M features five male electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel housing, and a threaded bulkhead mounting design.The connector is suitable for demanding underwater applications, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), marine sensors, underwater cameras, oceanographic instruments, and offshore monitoring systems.Engineered for underwater depths of up to 6000 meters, the BH5M offers reliable electrical performance and mechanical durability in challenging marine environments.The standard connector features a 7/16-20 UNF-2A mounting thread, a nominal thread length of 19 mm, and approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads for connection to electrical components inside the equipment housing.The BH5M is designed to mate with the IL5F 5-pin female inline underwater connector. It is also compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 5-pin connector interfaces.With its durable construction, dependable sealing design, and flexible customization options, the BH5M provides an effective electrical interconnection solution for subsea equipment manufacturers and marine engineering applications.

Key Features of the BH5M Underwater Connector

1. Five Male Electrical Contacts

The BH5M features five precision-manufactured male electrical contacts designed for stable electrical connections in underwater environments.Its five-contact configuration supports applications requiring multiple power or signal circuits within a single connector.Typical applications include:

• Underwater electrical power distribution
• Marine sensor connections
• Subsea control signals
• Underwater instrumentation
• Lighting and camera systems
• Oceanographic monitoring equipment
• Underwater electronic control modules

Each contact has a nominal current rating of 10 A, allowing the connector to serve various low- and moderate-current electrical applications.Actual operating capability depends on cable specifications, environmental conditions, and the electrical configuration of the complete assembly.

2. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Interface

The BH5M is designed with a Standard Circular mating interface compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON 5-pin female connectors.This compatibility makes it suitable for integration into existing underwater systems and replacement of compatible connector configurations.The BH5M can be paired with:

• HYSF IL5F female inline underwater connectors
• Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 5-pin female cable connectors
• Corresponding SEACON Standard Circular 5-pin female connectors

This provides flexibility for marine equipment manufacturers, offshore operators, and underwater research institutions.Before selecting a replacement connector, customers should verify the exact mating interface, contact arrangement, locking mechanism, and relevant part number.Importante: The BH5M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and is different from the MCBH5M Micro Circular connector.

3. Designed for Operating Depths Up to 6000 Meters

The BH5M is engineered for subsea applications requiring reliable operation under high hydrostatic pressure.The standard connector series supports operating depths of up to 6000 meters of seawater, equivalent to approximately 60 MPa of hydrostatic pressure.This performance makes the connector suitable for:

• Deep-sea research equipment
• Underwater robotic vehicles
• Seabed monitoring installations
• Offshore inspection systems
• Oceanographic measurement instruments
• Subsea industrial applications

The depth capability of a complete installation depends on correct mounting, sealing, mating, and qualification of the assembled underwater system.

4. Corrosion-Resistant 316L Stainless Steel Housing

The standard BH5M bulkhead connector is manufactured with a 316L stainless steel housing.316L stainless steel provides good corrosion resistance and mechanical strength for marine applications.The metal housing is designed to withstand challenging environmental conditions such as:

• Continuous exposure to seawater
• High hydrostatic pressure
• Mechanical vibration
• Repeated deployment and retrieval
• Marine corrosion
• Demanding offshore operating environments

The durable housing construction helps maintain the connector’s mechanical integrity during underwater operation.Alternative materials or customized configurations can be discussed according to project requirements.When installing the stainless steel connector into an aluminum housing, suitable measures should be considered to reduce the risk of galvanic corrosion.

5. Secure Threaded Bulkhead Mounting

The BH5M is designed for installation through the wall of an underwater equipment enclosure.Its standard mounting thread is:7/16-20 UNF-2AThe nominal threaded length is approximately 19 mm.This threaded design allows the connector to be securely mounted to a compatible pressure housing or underwater junction box.The connector uses an O-ring sealing arrangement to provide a watertight interface between the bulkhead connector and the equipment enclosure.The standard connector assembly includes the appropriate mounting hardware.Mounting nuts are normally manufactured from POM, with 316L stainless steel options available.The enclosure’s mounting hole, sealing surface, wall thickness, and O-ring arrangement must comply with the approved installation drawing.

6. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts

The BH5M incorporates gold-plated electrical contacts designed to provide dependable conductivity and consistent electrical performance.Gold-plated contacts help maintain stable electrical connections when the connector is correctly mated and maintained.The contact system is designed for repeated mating cycles under appropriate operating conditions.Before connecting the BH5M to its corresponding female cable connector, users should inspect the contact surfaces for contamination, corrosion, or mechanical damage.Careful handling and proper maintenance help extend the service life of the connector.

7. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads

The BH5M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads extending from the rear of the bulkhead connector.These leads provide a convenient connection to electrical components inside an underwater housing.Typical internal connections include:

• Printed circuit boards
• Sensor electronics
• Power supply terminals
• Control modules
• Internal wiring harnesses
• Marine instrumentation systems

The standard rear termination is suitable for many underwater equipment installations.Customized wire lengths and termination arrangements can also be discussed for OEM applications.Customers requiring special wire identification, different conductor sizes, or custom connection arrangements should confirm these specifications before production.

BH5M Technical Specifications

Parámetro	Specification
Product Model	BH5M
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Serie de productos	Standard Circular
Tipo de conector	Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector
Contact Configuration	5 Male Contacts
Installation Type	Panel / Bulkhead Mount
Standard Housing Material	Acero inoxidable 316L
Rosca de montaje	7/16-20 UNF-2A
Nominal Thread Length	19 mm
Standard Internal Wire Length	0.3 m
Rated Voltage	550 V AC/DC
Rated Current	10 A per Contact
Maximum Operating Depth	Up to 6000 m
Pressure Rating	Up to 60 MPa
Electrical Contacts	Gold-Plated
Sealing Method	O-Ring Sealing
Mating Connector	IL5F
Protective Dummy Plug	DC5F
Compatibility	Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular Connectors
Mating Capability	Wet-Mateable
Garantía	12 Months

Note: The specifications above describe the standard connector configuration. Final dimensions, ratings, and optional features should be verified using the approved product datasheet and engineering drawings.

BH5M Five-Pin Wiring Information

The HYSF Standard Circular 5-pin connector series uses the following standard cable wiring color sequence:

Pin Number	Standard Wire Color
Pin 1	Red
Pin 2	Black
Pin 3	Yellow
Pin 4	Blue
Pin 5	Orange

This table describes the standard five-core cable wiring arrangement.Please note that the BH5M bulkhead connector may be supplied with wire colors or numbered identification that differ from the standard inline cable arrangement.The actual pin assignments should always be verified against the supplied connector’s wiring diagram.Custom wiring arrangements can be discussed according to the requirements of specific underwater equipment.

BH5M Compatible Connectors and Accessories

Choosing the correct mating connector and protective accessories is essential for reliable subsea operation.

IL5F – 5-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector

The IL5F is the corresponding female inline underwater connector for the BH5M.It features five female electrical contacts and is normally supplied with a standard underwater cable.The typical HYSF inline cable length is approximately 1 meter, although different cable lengths can be provided according to project requirements.When the BH5M and IL5F are correctly mated, they create a sealed underwater electrical connection between the equipment enclosure and the external cable assembly.Recommended connection:BH5M Male Bulkhead + IL5F Female Inline ConnectorThis configuration is commonly used for underwater power supply, sensor communication, and electrical control applications.

DC5F – 5-Pin Female Protective Dummy Plug

The DC5F is the corresponding female protective dummy plug for the BH5M male bulkhead connector.When the IL5F cable connector is disconnected, the DC5F can be installed to protect the BH5M mating interface.The dummy plug helps reduce exposure to:

• Dirt and sediment
• Accidental mechanical contact
• Environmental contamination
• Damage during storage or transportation

Recommended protective configuration:BH5M Male Bulkhead + DC5F Female Dummy PlugThe DC5F is a protective accessory and does not provide an electrical connection.Its suitability for a particular underwater pressure condition should be confirmed before deployment.

BH5M vs. BH5F

The BH5M and BH5F are complementary product variants with different contact genders.

Model	Contact Gender	Corresponding Inline Connector
BH5M	Male	IL5F
BH5F	Female	IL5M

Both models belong to the HYSF Standard Circular 5-pin connector series.Customers should confirm the required connector gender before placing an order.

BH5M Installation Guidelines

Proper installation of the BH5M is essential for achieving reliable electrical performance and maintaining the pressure integrity of the equipment enclosure.

Step 1: Verify the Installation Drawing

Before installation, review the approved BH5M dimensional drawing.Confirm:

• Mounting hole dimensions
• Enclosure wall thickness
• Thread engagement
• O-ring sealing arrangement
• Available internal installation space

The mounting hole should not be designed based solely on the nominal thread size.

Step 2: Inspect the Connector and O-Ring

Check the connector housing, mounting thread, and sealing components before installation.Ensure that the O-ring is free from cuts, deformation, or contamination.The corresponding enclosure sealing surface should be clean, smooth, and free from scratches.

Step 3: Mount the Connector

Insert the BH5M into the prepared mounting hole.Install the appropriate mounting hardware and secure the connector according to the approved installation requirements.Avoid excessive tightening that could damage the mounting components or sealing surfaces.

Step 4: Connect the Internal Wiring

Route the standard 0.3-meter wire leads to the appropriate internal electrical components.Verify pin numbering and wire identification before connecting the conductors.Provide suitable strain relief and avoid sharp bends or excessive tension on the internal wires.

Step 5: Perform Electrical and Sealing Tests

After installation, inspect the completed assembly.Depending on the intended application, testing may include:

• Electrical continuity
• Insulation resistance
• Dielectric withstand
• Functional electrical testing
• Pressure or leakage testing

For underwater pressure enclosures, the complete installed system should be appropriately tested before deployment.

Wet-Mateable Underwater Connector Design

The BH5M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.This means the connector is designed to support mating and demating in underwater environments when used with compatible mating components.Wet-mateable construction is useful for subsea equipment maintenance, underwater cable replacement, and marine research applications.However, wet-mateable does not necessarily mean live-mateable.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless the specific connector configuration and application have been qualified for energized operation.Before connecting the BH5M to an IL5F female inline connector, inspect the contacts and mating surfaces.Make sure the connector is free from sand, sediment, and other contamination.Follow the correct mating and locking procedure to achieve reliable connector engagement.

Typical Applications of BH5M Underwater Connectors

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

ROVs require reliable electrical connections between internal control systems and external underwater components.The BH5M can be installed through the vehicle’s pressure housing to support suitable sensor, lighting, and control connections.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

AUVs use compact, pressure-resistant connectors to interface with external instruments and equipment.The BH5M provides a five-contact bulkhead connection for underwater electronic systems.

Marine Sensors and Instruments

Underwater measurement devices often require external electrical connections for power and data acquisition.The BH5M can be integrated into oceanographic sensors, marine monitoring devices, and underwater instrumentation housings.

Underwater Cameras and Lighting Systems

The BH5M is suitable for underwater camera and lighting assemblies requiring a five-contact electrical interface within the specified electrical ratings.It can provide a sealed connection between the internal electronics and an external subsea cable.

Offshore Monitoring Equipment

Offshore industrial applications often involve prolonged operation in corrosive marine environments.The BH5M can be used in suitable subsea junction boxes, monitoring systems, and underwater equipment enclosures.

Marine Research and Testing

Research institutions and equipment manufacturers can use the BH5M for underwater prototypes, experimental instruments, and test platforms.Its standardized mating interface helps simplify the selection of compatible cable assemblies.

HYSF SUBSEA Manufacturing and Quality Control

HYSF SUBSEA specializes in the manufacturing of underwater electrical connectors, subsea cable assemblies, fiber optic connectors, and customized marine connection solutions.We support standard connector products as well as customer-specific configurations for underwater equipment manufacturers.Depending on product specifications and project requirements, manufacturing inspections and testing may include:

• Dimensional inspection
• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Hydrostatic pressure testing
• Salt spray testing
• Mechanical durability evaluation

Our standard connectors are supplied with a 12-month warranty.Technical drawings, datasheets, and customized connector configurations can be provided according to project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BH5M underwater connector?

The BH5M is a 5-pin male bulkhead underwater electrical connector designed for mounting through the wall of a subsea equipment enclosure.

Which connector mates with the BH5M?

The corresponding HYSF mating connector is the IL5F 5-pin female inline underwater connector.

Is the BH5M compatible with SubConn?

Yes. The BH5M is designed to mate with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 5-pin female connectors. Exact part-number compatibility should be verified before installation.

Which dummy plug is used with BH5M?

The matching protective dummy plug is DC5F, which has a female interface designed to protect the BH5M male contacts.

What is the maximum operating depth of BH5M?

The standard connector series supports underwater operating depths of up to 6000 meters, subject to proper installation and qualification of the complete assembly.

What is the BH5M mounting thread?

The standard mounting thread is 7/16-20 UNF-2A, with a nominal threaded length of 19 mm.

What material is the housing made from?

The standard BH5M bulkhead housing is manufactured from Acero inoxidable 316L.

What is the standard internal wire length?

The BH5M is normally supplied with 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.

Can the internal wires be customized?

Yes. Different wire lengths, wiring arrangements, and termination configurations can be discussed according to project requirements.

What is the rated electrical current?

The standard BH5M is rated at 10 A per contact, subject to the operating conditions of the complete electrical system.

Is the BH5M wet-mateable?

Yes. The BH5M belongs to the Standard Circular wet-mateable series. Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless energized mating has been specifically qualified.

Is BH5M the same as MCBH5M?

No. The BH5M belongs to the Standard Circular Series, while the MCBH5M belongs to the Micro Circular Series. They have different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.

Conclusión

The HYSF SUBSEA BH5M 5-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector provides a durable and dependable electrical interface for underwater equipment operating in demanding marine environments.Its five male electrical contacts, corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel housing, 7/16-20 UNF mounting thread, and standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads make it suitable for integration into pressure housings, marine instruments, underwater robotics, and offshore monitoring equipment.With a maximum operating depth of up to 6000 meters and compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular connectors, the BH5M offers flexibility for both new subsea equipment designs and compatible replacement applications.For a complete electrical connection, pair the BH5M with the IL5F female inline underwater connector. When the connector is disconnected, the DC5F female dummy plug can be used to protect the male mating interface.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized wire lengths and connector configurations to meet the requirements of specialized underwater projects.