BH16F 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Series
Product Overview
Les
HYSF SUBSEA BH16F 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector is a high-performance, pressure-resistant subsea electrical connector designed to provide reliable multi-channel power, signal, and control connections through underwater equipment housings.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the BH16F features sixteen gold-plated female electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant
316L stainless steel housing, and a precision-engineered bulkhead sealing arrangement.Designed for underwater applications at depths of up to
6,000 meters (60 MPa), the BH16F provides a dependable electrical interface between internal equipment electronics and external subsea cable assemblies.The connector supports a rated voltage of
550V AC/DC and a nominal current rating of
10A per contact, making it suitable for appropriately designed underwater instrumentation, electrical control systems, monitoring equipment, and power distribution applications.The standard BH16F configuration includes a
3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread, a nominal
25 mm threaded length, and approximately
0.3 meters of internal wire leads for convenient integration into underwater pressure housings.The BH16F is designed to mate with the
IL16M 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector and features a Standard Circular mating interface compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON connector configurations.Typical applications include remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), underwater cameras, sonar systems, oceanographic instruments, offshore monitoring equipment, subsea electronic modules, and marine research platforms.
Key Features and Benefits
1. High-Density 16-Pin Female Electrical Interface
The BH16F incorporates sixteen precision-manufactured female electrical contacts within a single circular bulkhead interface.This high-density configuration allows multiple electrical circuits to pass through one underwater equipment housing penetration.The sixteen-contact design is suitable for applications requiring:
- Multiple underwater sensor channels
- Marine instrumentation circuits
- Electrical control signals
- Auxiliary power connections
- Subsea monitoring equipment
- Underwater robotic systems
- Oceanographic data acquisition
- Multi-conductor subsea cable assemblies
Compared with lower-pin-count underwater connectors, the BH16F provides greater circuit capacity through one mating interface.This can help simplify electrical system layouts and reduce the number of separate bulkhead penetrations required in compatible equipment designs.The individual electrical contacts can be assigned according to the power, control, and signal requirements of the connected equipment.
2. 550V AC/DC and 10A per Contact Electrical Rating
The BH16F belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular 12/16/25 Pin Connector Series.The standard 16-pin configuration supports a rated voltage of
550V AC/DC and a nominal rated current of
10A per contact.These specifications make the BH16F suitable for appropriate underwater electrical applications involving multiple circuits.However, the actual permissible electrical loading of a completed connector assembly depends on several factors, including:
- Internal conductor cross-sectional area
- Number of simultaneously energized contacts
- Operating temperature
- Wire termination configuration
- Cable length and voltage drop
- Connected equipment requirements
- Installation and environmental conditions
For systems requiring several contacts to carry continuous current simultaneously, the complete electrical assembly should be evaluated for thermal performance and applicable total-current limitations.The connector should always be operated within the approved electrical specifications of the complete installation.
3. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Standard Circular Interface
The HYSF BH16F is designed for mating compatibility with corresponding
SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 16-pin underwater connector interfaces.This compatibility makes it a practical option for new subsea equipment development and compatible replacement applications.Potential applications include:
- Replacement underwater bulkhead connectors
- ROV electrical system upgrades
- Offshore instrumentation maintenance
- Compatible subsea cable replacement
- Marine electronic equipment manufacturing
- OEM underwater connection systems
The BH16F is primarily designed to mate with the
HYSF IL16M male inline cable connector.Before replacing an existing connector from another manufacturer, the exact mating model, contact configuration, mechanical dimensions, and locking arrangement should be verified.
Important: BH16F belongs to the Standard Circular Series and should not be confused with MCBH16F, which belongs to the Micro Circular Series.These two products have different mating interfaces, mounting dimensions, and electrical specifications.They are not interchangeable.
4. Designed for Underwater Depths up to 6,000 Meters
The HYSF Standard Circular connector family is designed for demanding marine environments involving high external hydrostatic pressure.The series supports pressure capability up to
60 MPa, corresponding to approximately
6,000 meters of seawater depth.This makes the BH16F suitable for consideration in applications such as:
- Deep-sea scientific research
- Underwater robotic vehicles
- Offshore inspection systems
- Seabed monitoring instruments
- Oceanographic measurement equipment
- Marine environmental monitoring
- Subsea electronic control systems
The bulkhead construction provides a watertight electrical interface through the wall of an underwater equipment enclosure.Actual operating depth depends on the complete connector installation, including the enclosure wall, mounting seal, mating cable connector, and applicable pressure qualification.For critical applications, the complete installed assembly should be tested and verified for the intended operating conditions.
5. Marine-Grade 316L Stainless Steel Housing
The standard BH16F features a precision-machined
316L stainless steel bulkhead housing.316L stainless steel provides good corrosion resistance and mechanical durability for demanding marine applications.Key advantages include:
- Good resistance to seawater corrosion
- High mechanical strength
- Durability under hydrostatic pressure
- Reliable threaded mounting
- Dimensional stability
- Suitability for deep-water equipment installations
The metal housing provides mechanical support for the internal electrical contact assembly.It also enables secure installation through a properly machined equipment enclosure wall.For projects requiring alternative materials, appropriately anodized aluminum configurations may be considered subject to engineering review.When stainless steel connectors are installed in aluminum pressure housings, potential galvanic corrosion should be evaluated.Suitable isolation measures, protective coatings, and material selection may be required.
6. Precision 3/4-16 UNF-2A Mounting Thread
The BH16F uses a threaded bulkhead mounting arrangement designed for installation through underwater equipment housings.According to the HYSF Standard 12/16/25 Pin technical catalog, the corresponding installation specifications include:
- Mounting Thread: 3/4-16 UNF-2A
- Nominal Thread Length: 25 mm
- Base Mounting Radius: 32.4 mm
- Mounting Surface Roughness: Ra 1.6
- Installation Type: Threaded Bulkhead
The threaded mounting configuration allows the connector to be secured to a compatible equipment panel or pressure enclosure.Before machining the equipment housing, the required mounting hole dimensions, wall thickness, sealing surfaces, and installation clearances should be verified against the approved BH16F technical drawing.The nominal mounting thread alone is not sufficient to determine all installation dimensions.
7. Watertight O-Ring Bulkhead Sealing
The BH16F uses an O-ring sealing arrangement designed to help prevent seawater ingress through the connector mounting interface.The O-ring provides a sealing barrier between the connector housing and the equipment enclosure.Reliable sealing performance depends on:
- Correct O-ring dimensions
- Suitable sealing materials
- Proper sealing groove geometry
- Clean mounting surfaces
- Appropriate O-ring compression
- Correct installation procedures
- Suitable housing wall thickness
The standard bulkhead mounting arrangement includes appropriate mounting components according to the connector specification.The standard locking nut material is POM, while 316L stainless steel is available as an alternative.Customized sealing configurations may be considered for specific engineering applications.The completed bulkhead installation should be validated for the intended operating depth and pressure.
8. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads
The BH16F is normally supplied with approximately
0.3 meters of internal wire leads extending from the rear of the connector.These leads allow convenient electrical integration with components installed inside the underwater equipment housing.Typical internal connections include:
- Electronic control boards
- Electrical distribution terminals
- Sensor electronics
- Marine instrumentation modules
- Internal wiring harnesses
- Data acquisition systems
- Subsea electronic equipment
Custom internal wire lengths and termination configurations can be provided according to project requirements.The actual conductor colors, wire identification, and contact assignments should be verified using the approved wiring diagram.
9. Gold-Plated Female Electrical Contacts
The BH16F incorporates sixteen gold-plated female electrical contacts.Gold plating provides a conductive contact surface and helps reduce oxidation.Reliable electrical contact performance is important for underwater instrumentation and subsea electrical systems operating in demanding environments.The female contact arrangement is designed to mate with the corresponding IL16M male connector.Before mating, users should inspect the connector interface for dirt, sediment, salt deposits, and visible mechanical damage.Proper handling and maintenance can help preserve dependable electrical performance.
10. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connection
The BH16F belongs to HYSF SUBSEA’s wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.When paired with the appropriate male connector, the mating interface is designed to support underwater connection and disconnection according to the applicable operating instructions.This capability is useful for:
- Underwater cable replacement
- Subsea sensor servicing
- Modular equipment integration
- Marine equipment maintenance
- Underwater instrument replacement
Important: Wet-mateable does not automatically mean live-mateable.Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating unless the specific connector assembly has been qualified for energized operation.
BH16F Technical Specifications
| Paramètres | Specification |
|---|
| Brand | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Model Number | BH16F |
| Série de produits | Standard Circular |
| Type de connecteur | Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector |
| Nombre de contacts | 16 |
| Contact Gender | Female |
| Contact Finish | Gold-Plated |
| Standard Housing Material | Acier inoxydable 316L |
| Optional Housing Material | Anodized Aluminum, Subject to Configuration |
| Rated Voltage | 550V AC/DC |
| Rated Current | 10A per Contact |
| Design Depth Capability | Up to 6,000 m |
| Pressure Capability | Up to 60 MPa |
| Mating Type | Wet-Mateable |
| Mounting Type | Threaded Bulkhead |
| Filet de montage | 3/4-16 UNF-2A |
| Nominal Thread Length | 25 mm |
| Base Mounting Radius | 32.4 mm |
| Mounting Surface Roughness | Ra 1.6 |
| Standard Internal Wire Length | 0.3 Meter |
| Sealing System | O-Ring Sealing |
| Primary Mating Connector | IL16M |
| Protective Dummy Plug | DC16M |
| Compatibility | Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular Interfaces |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Technical Note: Electrical ratings and operating depth should be evaluated together with the complete approved connector assembly. Actual performance depends on the mounting configuration, internal wiring, mating connector, and environmental conditions.
Standard 16-Pin Wiring Reference
The HYSF Standard Circular 16-pin connector series uses the following standard inline cable conductor identification sequence.
| Pin Number | Standard Wire Color |
|---|
| 1 | Red |
| 2 | Red/White |
| 3 | Black |
| 4 | Black/White |
| 5 | Yellow |
| 6 | Yellow/White |
| 7 | Blue |
| 8 | Blue/White |
| 9 | Orange |
| 10 | Orange/White |
| 11 | Brown |
| 12 | Brown/White |
| 13 | Purple |
| 14 | Purple/White |
| 15 | Green |
| 16 | Green/White |
This table represents the standard cable wiring sequence for the HYSF Standard Circular 16-pin family.
Important: BH16F bulkhead connectors may use numbered internal wire leads or alternative conductor identification arrangements.The actual BH16F pin-to-wire mapping should be verified using the supplied wiring diagram and electrical continuity testing.Custom wiring configurations can be specified for OEM applications.
Compatible Connectors and Accessories
IL16M – 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector
Les
IL16M is the corresponding male inline cable connector for the BH16F female bulkhead.It features sixteen male electrical contacts, a molded neoprene rubber body, and an integrated underwater cable.The standard IL16M is normally supplied with approximately 1 meter of underwater cable.When correctly mated, the BH16F and IL16M provide a detachable electrical connection between the external underwater cable and the internal electronics of the equipment enclosure.
Standard electrical connection:BH16F Female Bulkhead + IL16M Male Inline ConnectorThis arrangement is suitable for appropriately rated power, control, and instrumentation circuits.
DC16M – 16-Pin Male Protective Dummy Plug
Les
DC16M is the corresponding male protective dummy plug for the BH16F female bulkhead connector.When the IL16M cable assembly is disconnected, the DC16M can be installed to help protect the exposed female mating interface.The dummy plug provides protective coverage against environmental contamination and accidental mechanical contact.
Protective configuration:BH16F Female Bulkhead + DC16M Male Dummy PlugThe DC16M is a protective accessory and does not provide electrical power or signal transmission.The pressure capability of the complete dummy-plugged connector arrangement should be verified for the intended operating conditions.
BH16M – 16-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector
Les
BH16M is the opposite-gender bulkhead configuration within the same Standard Circular 16-pin connector family.The standard mating relationships are:
- BH16F mates with IL16M.
- BH16M mates with IL16F.
The corresponding protective accessories are:
- DC16M protects BH16F.
- DC16F protects BH16M.
The correct contact gender and connector series should always be confirmed before selecting a mating component.
BH16F vs. BH16M
Both models belong to the HYSF Standard Circular 16-pin underwater connector family.
| Feature | BH16F | BH16M |
|---|
| Product Type | Female Bulkhead | Male Bulkhead |
| Nombre de contacts | 16 | 16 |
| Contact Gender | Female | Male |
| Standard Housing | Acier inoxydable 316L | Acier inoxydable 316L |
| Rated Voltage | 550V AC/DC | 550V AC/DC |
| Rated Current | 10A per Contact | 10A per Contact |
| Standard Internal Leads | 0.3 m | 0.3 m |
| Filet de montage | 3/4-16 UNF-2A | 3/4-16 UNF-2A |
| Primary Mating Connector | IL16M | IL16F |
| Protective Dummy Plug | DC16M | DC16F |
The two bulkhead models have opposite contact genders and do not mate directly with one another.
Typical Applications of BH16F Underwater Connectors
1. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
ROVs require reliable electrical interfaces between sealed electronic housings and external underwater equipment.The BH16F can be installed through suitable ROV pressure housings to provide multiple electrical circuits for sensors, control systems, monitoring devices, and auxiliary instruments.Its sixteen-contact arrangement can reduce the number of individual enclosure penetrations required.
2. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
AUV systems frequently integrate external sensors and modular electronic equipment.The BH16F provides a fixed bulkhead interface suitable for compatible multi-channel electrical connections.Its detachable mating design supports convenient replacement of external cable assemblies.
3. Underwater Cameras and Imaging Systems
Subsea cameras and imaging equipment often require several conductors for power, control, and auxiliary functions.The BH16F can provide a watertight electrical interface through a compatible camera housing or electronic enclosure.For high-speed data transmission, the complete cable construction and signal characteristics must be evaluated separately.
4. Sonar and Hydrophone Equipment
Underwater sonar systems may require multiple electrical connections for sensor excitation, measurement, control, and monitoring circuits.The BH16F provides sixteen contacts for suitable subsea instrumentation applications.For sensitive acoustic signals, appropriate cable shielding, grounding, and signal integrity requirements should be considered.
5. Oceanographic Research Instruments
Marine scientific equipment frequently requires multi-contact electrical interfaces through watertight instrument housings.The BH16F can be integrated into:
- CTD-related measurement systems
- Underwater acoustic instruments
- Marine environmental monitoring equipment
- Oceanographic data acquisition systems
- Deep-sea observation platforms
- Scientific sensor assemblies
6. Offshore Monitoring Systems
Offshore inspection and monitoring equipment often operates under seawater exposure, vibration, and hydrostatic pressure.The BH16F provides a durable electrical interface for suitable subsea control and instrumentation applications.
7. Marine Research and Testing Equipment
Research organizations and subsea equipment manufacturers may require customized electrical bulkhead connections for specialized instruments.The BH16F provides a standardized sixteen-contact interface that can be integrated into properly designed underwater enclosures.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation is essential for reliable watertight and electrical performance.
Step 1: Confirm the Mechanical Drawing
Verify the 3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread, nominal thread length, panel opening, and sealing requirements.Always use the approved BH16F technical drawing before machining the equipment housing.
Step 2: Inspect the Connector
Check the stainless steel housing, mounting thread, female electrical contacts, and sealing surfaces for visible damage.
Step 3: Prepare the Equipment Housing
Machine the mounting opening according to the approved dimensions.Ensure the mounting and sealing surfaces are free from burrs, scratches, and contamination.
Step 4: Inspect the O-Ring
Check the specified O-ring for cuts, deformation, or contamination.Use the correct O-ring specification and follow the approved installation procedure.
Step 5: Install the BH16F
Position the connector through the prepared equipment housing.Secure it using the appropriate mounting hardware and specified tightening procedure.Avoid excessive tightening or unnecessary mechanical stress.
Step 6: Connect the Internal Wiring
Route the standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads to the appropriate electronic components.Verify the actual pin assignments and conductor identification before making electrical connections.
Step 7: Mate the IL16M Connector
Inspect the mating interfaces and align the IL16M male inline connector correctly with the BH16F.Follow the recommended mating and locking procedure.
Step 8: Perform Final Testing
Verify electrical continuity, insulation performance, and the completed enclosure sealing arrangement.For critical subsea applications, conduct appropriate pressure or leakage testing before deployment.
Quality Control and Testing
HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors and customized subsea interconnection assemblies for demanding marine environments.Depending on the product configuration and project specifications, quality-control procedures may include:
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance testing
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Contact inspection
- Dimensional verification
- O-ring sealing inspection
- Mechanical integrity evaluation
- Wiring identification verification
Additional testing and documentation requirements can be specified according to the intended application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the BH16F underwater connector?
The BH16F is a
16-pin female bulkhead underwater electrical connector belonging to the HYSF Standard Circular Series.It is designed for installation through underwater equipment housings and pressure enclosures.
Q2: Which connector mates with BH16F?
The primary mating connector is the
IL16M 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector.
Q3: Is BH16F compatible with SubConn?
The BH16F is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 16-pin connector interfaces.Exact mating compatibility should be verified before installation.
Q4: What is the mounting thread size?
The standard BH16F mounting thread is
3/4-16 UNF-2A.
Q5: What is the standard thread length?
The nominal thread length is
25 mm for the referenced Standard Circular 12/16/25 Pin configuration.
Q6: What is the standard housing material?
The standard BH16F features a corrosion-resistant
316L stainless steel housing.
Q7: What is the maximum operating depth?
The Standard Circular series is designed for underwater applications up to
6,000 meters (60 MPa) when the complete connector installation is appropriately configured and qualified.
Q8: What is the rated voltage?
The connector series has a rated voltage of
550V AC/DC.
Q9: What is the rated current?
The nominal current rating is
10A per contact, subject to the complete connector assembly and operating conditions.
Q10: What is the standard internal wire length?
The BH16F is normally supplied with approximately
0.3 meters of internal wire leads.
Q11: Can the internal wire length be customized?
Yes. Alternative internal wire lengths and termination configurations can be specified according to project requirements.
Q12: Is BH16F wet-mateable?
Yes. BH16F belongs to the HYSF wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or unmating unless energized operation has been specifically qualified.
Q13: Which dummy plug protects BH16F?
The corresponding protective accessory is the
DC16M 16-Pin Male Dummy Plug.
Q14: Is BH16F the same as MCBH16F?
No.BH16F belongs to the
Standard Circular Series, with a nominal rated current of 10A per contact.MCBH16F belongs to the
Micro Circular Series, with a different mating interface and nominal current rating of 5A per contact.The two connector families are not interchangeable.
Q15: Can BH16F be installed in an aluminum housing?
Yes, provided the mounting dimensions, sealing arrangement, and mechanical requirements are suitable.Potential galvanic corrosion between stainless steel and aluminum components should be evaluated for seawater applications.
Q16: Can BH16F be used for Ethernet?
The BH16F contains sixteen electrical contacts, but contact count alone does not guarantee Ethernet compatibility.The complete cable construction, conductor pairing, shielding, and electrical performance must be evaluated for the required Ethernet protocol.
Why Choose HYSF SUBSEA BH16F?
Les
HYSF SUBSEA BH16F 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector provides a durable high-density electrical interface for demanding subsea environments.Its principal advantages include:
- Sixteen gold-plated female electrical contacts
- SubConn-compatible Standard Circular interface
- Wet-mateable underwater connector design
- 550V AC/DC rated voltage
- 10A per contact rated current
- Design depth capability up to 6,000 meters
- Corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel housing
- Precision 3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread
- Standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads
- O-ring bulkhead sealing
- Compatible IL16M male inline connector
- Corresponding DC16M protective dummy plug
- Customized housing and wiring configurations
- 12-month product warranty
For underwater robotic vehicles, marine instrumentation, sonar systems, oceanographic equipment, offshore monitoring applications, and deep-sea research platforms, the BH16F provides a practical high-density electrical connection solution.Its robust threaded mounting design and compatibility with established Standard Circular connector interfaces make it suitable for underwater equipment requiring dependable multi-contact connections through sealed pressure housings.
