BH16M 16-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Series

Product Overview

Les HYSF SUBSEA BH16M 16-Pin Male 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 BH16M features sixteen gold-plated male electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel housing, and a precision-engineered bulkhead sealing design.The BH16M is designed for demanding subsea applications requiring reliable electrical connectivity under high hydrostatic pressure. The Standard Circular series supports operating depths of up to 6,000 meters (60 MPa) when the complete connector installation is appropriately configured and qualified.With a rated voltage of 550V AC/DC and a nominal current rating of 10A per contact, the BH16M provides a versatile electrical interface for underwater instrumentation, control systems, sensor networks, and suitable power distribution applications.The standard bulkhead configuration includes a 3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread, a nominal 25 mm thread length, and approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads for electrical integration inside the equipment enclosure.The BH16M is designed to mate with the IL16F 16-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector. Its Standard Circular interface is also designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON underwater 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 Male Electrical Interface

The BH16M incorporates sixteen precision-manufactured male electrical contacts within one circular bulkhead connector.Its high-density contact arrangement enables multiple electrical circuits to pass through a single equipment housing penetration.This configuration is suitable for applications involving:

• 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-contact-count underwater connectors, the BH16M provides greater circuit capacity within one mating interface.This can help simplify the layout of underwater electrical systems and reduce the number of separate bulkhead penetrations required in suitable equipment designs.The actual contact assignments should be selected according to the electrical requirements of the connected equipment.

2. Rated Current of 10A per Contact

The BH16M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular 12/16/25 Pin Connector Series.The standard 16-pin configuration supports a nominal current rating of 10A per contact, with a rated voltage of 550V AC/DC.These electrical specifications make the connector suitable for appropriate power, signal, and instrumentation circuits.The sixteen contacts can be allocated to different electrical functions according to the application requirements.However, the permissible operating current of the complete system depends on additional 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 applications involving multiple contacts carrying continuous current simultaneously, the complete connector and wiring assembly should be evaluated for thermal performance and electrical loading.

3. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Standard Circular Interface

The HYSF BH16M is designed for mating compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 16-pin underwater connector interfaces.This compatibility makes the BH16M a practical option for customers developing new subsea equipment or maintaining existing compatible marine systems.Typical applications include:

• Replacement underwater bulkhead connectors
• ROV equipment upgrades
• Offshore instrumentation maintenance
• Compatible subsea cable replacement
• Marine electronic equipment development
• OEM underwater equipment manufacturing

The BH16M is primarily paired with the HYSF IL16F female inline connector.For replacement projects, the exact mating connector model, contact arrangement, locking configuration, and installation dimensions should be verified before ordering.Important: BH16M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and should not be confused with MCBH16M, which belongs to the Micro Circular Series.These connectors have different mating interfaces, electrical ratings, and installation dimensions.

4. Designed for Deep-Sea Operation up to 6,000 Meters

The HYSF Standard Circular connector family is engineered for demanding underwater operating environments.The series supports pressure capability up to 60 MPa, corresponding to approximately 6,000 meters of seawater depth.This makes the BH16M suitable for consideration in applications involving:

• Deep-sea scientific research
• Underwater robotic vehicles
• Offshore inspection operations
• Seabed monitoring instruments
• Oceanographic measurement systems
• Marine environmental monitoring
• Subsea electronic control equipment

The connector’s bulkhead construction is designed to provide a watertight electrical interface through an underwater equipment enclosure.Actual operating depth depends on the complete installation, including the bulkhead housing, O-ring sealing, enclosure wall, mating cable connector, and required pressure qualification.For critical subsea applications, the complete installed assembly should be verified against the intended operating pressure.

5. Marine-Grade 316L Stainless Steel Housing

The standard BH16M features a precision-machined 316L stainless steel bulkhead housing.316L stainless steel is commonly selected for underwater electrical connectors because of its mechanical strength and corrosion resistance in marine environments.Key advantages include:

• Good resistance to marine corrosion
• High mechanical strength
• Durability under hydrostatic pressure
• Reliable threaded mounting
• Dimensional stability
• Suitability for demanding subsea applications

The metal housing provides mechanical support for the connector’s electrical contact assembly.It also enables secure installation through a properly machined underwater enclosure wall.For applications requiring reduced weight or alternative material compatibility, anodized aluminum configurations may be considered subject to engineering review.When the BH16M is installed in an aluminum pressure housing, potential galvanic corrosion between the housing materials should be evaluated.Appropriate protective coatings, material selection, or isolation measures may be required.

6. Precision 3/4-16 UNF-2A Mounting Thread

The BH16M uses a threaded bulkhead mounting configuration designed for installation in underwater equipment housings.According to the HYSF Standard 12/16/25 Pin technical catalog, the standard installation requirements 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 design allows the connector to be secured to a compatible equipment panel or pressure enclosure wall.Before machining the equipment housing, the mounting hole dimensions, wall thickness, sealing surface, and installation clearance should be verified against the approved BH16M mechanical drawing.The nominal thread specification alone is not sufficient to determine all installation dimensions.

7. Watertight O-Ring Bulkhead Sealing

The BH16M uses an O-ring sealing arrangement to help prevent seawater ingress through the connector mounting interface.The O-ring provides a sealing barrier between the connector housing and the corresponding equipment panel.Effective sealing performance depends on several factors:

• Correct O-ring dimensions
• Suitable elastomer material
• Proper sealing groove geometry
• Clean sealing surfaces
• Appropriate O-ring compression
• Correct mounting procedures
• Suitable equipment housing design

The standard bulkhead configuration includes the appropriate mounting components according to the connector specification.The standard locking nut material is POM, with 316L stainless steel available as an alternative.Customized sealing arrangements may be considered for special underwater equipment requirements.The complete connector installation should be validated for the intended operating depth.

8. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads

The BH16M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.These wires extend from the rear of the bulkhead connector into the equipment housing.They allow the connector to be electrically integrated with internal components such as:

• Electronic control boards
• Power distribution terminals
• Sensor electronics
• Marine instrumentation modules
• Internal wiring harnesses
• Data acquisition equipment
• Subsea control electronics

The standard internal wire length provides a practical termination option for many underwater enclosures.Customized internal wire lengths and termination configurations may be available for specific projects.Actual wire identification and contact assignments should be verified using the approved wiring diagram.

9. Gold-Plated Male Electrical Contacts

The BH16M incorporates sixteen gold-plated male electrical contacts.Gold plating provides a conductive contact surface and helps reduce contact oxidation.Stable electrical contact performance is important for underwater systems requiring dependable signal transmission and power distribution.The male contact interface is designed to engage with the corresponding IL16F female connector.Before mating, the connector contacts and surrounding surfaces should be inspected for contamination, mechanical damage, or foreign particles.Correct handling and maintenance help preserve the electrical performance of the connector.

10. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connection

The BH16M belongs to HYSF SUBSEA’s wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.When paired with the appropriate female connector, the interface is designed to support underwater mating and demating according to the applicable procedures.Wet-mateable connector technology is useful for equipment requiring:

• Underwater cable replacement
• Sensor servicing
• Modular system integration
• Marine equipment maintenance
• Subsea instrument replacement

Important: Wet-mateable does not automatically mean live-mateable.Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating unless the complete connector assembly has been specifically approved for energized operation.

BH16M Technical Specifications

Paramètres	Specification
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Model Number	BH16M
Série de produits	Standard Circular
Type de connecteur	Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector
Nombre de contacts	16
Contact Gender	Male
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	IL16F
Protective Dummy Plug	DC16F
Compatibility	Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular Interfaces
Warranty	12 Months

Technical Note: The published electrical and depth ratings should be considered together with the complete approved connector assembly. Actual performance depends on the selected mounting configuration, internal wiring, mating connector, and operating conditions.

Standard 16-Pin Wiring Reference

The HYSF Standard Circular 16-pin connector family 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 reference for the Standard Circular 16-pin family.Important: BH16M bulkhead connectors may use numbered internal leads or alternative wire identification arrangements.The actual BH16M pin-to-wire mapping must be confirmed using the supplied wiring diagram and electrical continuity verification.Customized internal wiring arrangements may be specified for OEM equipment.

Compatible Connectors and Accessories

IL16F – 16-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector

Les IL16F is the primary mating connector for the BH16M male bulkhead.It features sixteen female electrical contacts, molded neoprene rubber construction, and an integrated underwater cable.The standard IL16F is normally supplied with approximately 1 meter of underwater cable.When properly mated, the BH16M and IL16F create a detachable electrical connection between the internal electronics of an underwater housing and external subsea equipment.Standard electrical connection:BH16M Male Bulkhead + IL16F Female Inline ConnectorThis configuration is suitable for multi-channel power, control, and instrumentation applications.

DC16F – 16-Pin Female Dummy Plug

Les DC16F is the corresponding female protective dummy plug for the BH16M male bulkhead connector.When the IL16F cable assembly is disconnected, the DC16F can be fitted to help protect the exposed male connector interface.The dummy plug helps reduce exposure to seawater contamination, sediment, dirt, and accidental mechanical damage.Protective configuration:BH16M Male Bulkhead + DC16F Female Dummy PlugThe DC16F is a protective accessory and does not provide electrical power or signal transmission.The environmental and pressure capability of a complete dummy-plugged assembly should be confirmed for the intended operating conditions.

BH16F – 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector

Les BH16F is the opposite-gender bulkhead configuration within the same Standard Circular 16-pin connector family.The standard mating relationships are:

• BH16M mates with IL16F.
• BH16F mates with IL16M.

The corresponding protective accessories are:

• DC16F protects BH16M.
• DC16M protects BH16F.

Correct contact gender and mating interface selection are essential for reliable electrical connections.

Typical Applications of BH16M Underwater Connectors

1. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

ROVs frequently require multiple electrical circuits through sealed electronics housings.The BH16M can be installed in appropriate ROV pressure enclosures to provide connections for external sensors, control modules, monitoring equipment, and auxiliary instruments.Its sixteen-contact configuration allows several circuits to pass through one bulkhead interface.

2. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

AUVs commonly integrate external navigation equipment, environmental sensors, and electronic modules.The BH16M provides a panel-mounted connection interface for appropriate multi-channel electrical applications.Its detachable mating design supports modular equipment integration and maintenance.

3. Underwater Cameras and Imaging Systems

Subsea imaging equipment may require multiple electrical circuits for power, control, and auxiliary functions.The BH16M can be incorporated into underwater camera housings or imaging equipment enclosures.Compatibility with specific video or communication protocols depends on the complete cable design and electrical system.

4. Sonar and Hydrophone Systems

Underwater sonar systems and hydrophone arrays often require several conductors for power, measurement, and control circuits.The BH16M provides a sixteen-contact electrical interface for suitable acoustic equipment.For sensitive measurement signals, appropriate shielding, grounding, and cable construction should be considered.

5. Oceanographic Instruments

Marine scientific equipment often requires reliable electrical connections through watertight housings.The BH16M can be integrated into instruments such as:

• CTD measurement systems
• Underwater acoustic instruments
• Marine environmental sensors
• Oceanographic data acquisition equipment
• Seabed observation systems
• Scientific monitoring platforms

6. Offshore Monitoring Equipment

Offshore equipment frequently operates in environments involving seawater exposure, hydrostatic pressure, and mechanical stress.The BH16M provides a robust electrical bulkhead interface for appropriate monitoring, instrumentation, and control systems.

7. Marine Research and Testing Equipment

Research laboratories and subsea equipment manufacturers may require customized electrical interfaces for experimental underwater systems.The BH16M provides a standardized multi-contact connection suitable for appropriately designed marine research equipment and testing platforms.

Installation Guidelines

Correct installation is essential for maintaining the electrical and watertight performance of the BH16M.

Step 1: Confirm the Technical Drawing

Verify the 3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread, thread length, panel opening, and sealing dimensions against the approved connector drawing.

Step 2: Inspect the Connector

Check the stainless steel housing, male electrical contacts, mounting thread, and sealing surfaces for visible damage.

Step 3: Prepare the Equipment Housing

Machine the mounting opening according to the approved mechanical drawing.Ensure the sealing surface is clean and free from burrs, scratches, or contamination.

Step 4: Inspect the O-Ring

Check the specified O-ring for damage, deformation, or contamination.Use the correct sealing material and follow the approved installation procedure.

Step 5: Install the BH16M

Position the connector in the prepared equipment housing.Secure it using the appropriate mounting nut and components.Avoid excessive tightening or mechanical stress.

Step 6: Connect the Internal Wiring

Route the standard internal wire leads to the corresponding electronic components.Verify the actual pin assignments before making electrical connections.

Step 7: Mate the IL16F Connector

Inspect the mating surfaces and align the IL16F female inline connector correctly with the BH16M male bulkhead.Follow the recommended mating and retention procedure.

Step 8: Perform Final Testing

Verify electrical continuity, insulation performance, and the complete housing sealing arrangement.For critical subsea equipment, conduct the required pressure or leakage testing before deployment.

Quality Control and Testing

HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors and customized subsea connection assemblies for demanding marine applications.Depending on the product configuration and project specifications, quality verification may include:

• Hydrostatic pressure testing
• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance measurement
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Contact inspection
• Dimensional verification
• O-ring sealing inspection
• Mechanical integrity evaluation
• Wiring identification verification

Additional testing requirements may be specified for customized underwater equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the BH16M underwater connector?

The BH16M is a 16-pin male bulkhead underwater electrical connector belonging to the HYSF Standard Circular Series.It is designed for installation through underwater equipment housings.

Q2: Which connector mates with BH16M?

The primary mating connector is the IL16F 16-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector.

Q3: Is BH16M compatible with SubConn?

The BH16M is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 16-pin interfaces.The exact mating model should be verified before installation.

Q4: What is the mounting thread size?

The standard BH16M mounting thread is 3/4-16 UNF-2A.

Q5: What is the standard thread length?

The nominal threaded length is 25 mm for the referenced Standard Circular 12/16/25 Pin configuration.

Q6: What is the housing material?

The standard BH16M features a 316L stainless steel housing.Alternative materials may be available for specific projects.

Q7: What is the maximum operating depth?

The Standard Circular series supports applications up to 6,000 meters (60 MPa) when the complete installation is appropriately configured and qualified.

Q8: What is the rated voltage?

The rated voltage is 550V AC/DC.

Q9: What is the rated current?

The standard current rating is 10A per contact, subject to the electrical loading and complete assembly configuration.

Q10: What is the standard internal wire length?

The BH16M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.

Q11: Can the internal wire length be customized?

Yes. Customized internal wire lengths and termination configurations can be specified according to project requirements.

Q12: Is BH16M wet-mateable?

Yes. The BH16M belongs to the wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating unless energized operation has been specifically qualified.

Q13: Which dummy plug protects BH16M?

The corresponding protective accessory is the DC16F 16-Pin Female Dummy Plug.

Q14: Is BH16M the same as MCBH16M?

No.BH16M belongs to the Standard Circular Series, with a nominal current rating of 10A per contact.MCBH16M belongs to the Micro Circular Series, with a different mating interface and a nominal current rating of 5A per contact.The two products are not interchangeable.

Q15: Can BH16M be installed in an aluminum housing?

Yes, provided the installation dimensions, sealing arrangement, and mechanical requirements are suitable.Galvanic corrosion protection should be considered when stainless steel and aluminum components are exposed to seawater.

Q16: Can BH16M be used for Ethernet?

The BH16M contains sixteen electrical contacts, but contact count alone does not guarantee Ethernet compatibility.The complete cable construction, conductor pairing, shielding, and signal performance must be evaluated for the required network protocol.

Why Choose HYSF SUBSEA BH16M?

Les HYSF SUBSEA BH16M 16-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector provides a durable high-density electrical interface for demanding subsea equipment.Its principal advantages include:

• Sixteen gold-plated male 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 IL16F female inline connector
• Corresponding DC16F protective dummy plug
• Customized housing and wiring options
• 12-month product warranty

For underwater robotic systems, marine instrumentation, sonar equipment, offshore monitoring applications, and deep-sea research platforms, the BH16M provides a practical connection solution combining high contact density, mechanical durability, and established Standard Circular mating compatibility.Its threaded bulkhead installation design makes it suitable for subsea equipment requiring reliable electrical connections through watertight pressure housings.