BH5F 5-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible

Reliable 5-Pin Female Bulkhead Connector for Deep-Sea Applications

Les BH5F 5-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector from HYSF SUBSEA is a high-performance, pressure-resistant electrical connector designed for reliable power and signal transmission in demanding underwater environments. As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the BH5F features five female electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant stainless steel housing, and a panel-mount configuration suitable for installation on subsea equipment enclosures.Engineered for underwater applications at depths of up to 6000 meters, the BH5F provides a dependable electrical interface between external subsea cable assemblies and the internal electrical systems of underwater equipment.The connector features a standard 7/16-20 UNF-2A mounting thread and is supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads, allowing convenient integration into pressure housings, underwater junction boxes, sensor assemblies, and marine electronic systems.The BH5F is designed to mate with the corresponding IL5M 5-pin male inline underwater connector. It is also compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular connector interfaces, making it suitable for new underwater system designs and replacement applications.Manufactured by HYSF SUBSEA, the BH5F combines robust mechanical construction, dependable electrical performance, and flexible customization options for oceanographic, offshore, industrial, and subsea research applications.

Key Features of the BH5F Underwater Connector

1. Five Female Electrical Contacts

The BH5F incorporates five female electrical contacts designed to provide stable connections for underwater electrical systems.Its 5-pin configuration supports applications requiring multiple electrical circuits within a compact circular connector interface.The connector can be used for:

• Underwater sensor power supplies
• Low-voltage electrical distribution
• Control and monitoring signals
• Marine instrumentation
• Underwater lighting systems
• Subsea electronic equipment

Each contact has a nominal current rating of 10 A, subject to the operating conditions and the complete cable assembly design.

2. SubConn-Compatible Standard Circular Interface

The BH5F is manufactured with a mating interface designed to be compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 5-pin connectors.This compatibility can simplify the integration of HYSF connectors into existing subsea equipment.For example, the BH5F can be used with:

• HYSF IL5M male inline connectors
• Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 5-pin male cable connectors
• Corresponding SEACON Standard Circular 5-pin male connectors

Compatibility should always be checked against the exact connector model, contact arrangement, and locking configuration before installation.Please note that the BH5F belongs to the Standard Circular Series, not the Micro Circular Series. It should not be confused with the MCBH5F micro bulkhead connector.

3. Designed for Underwater Depths Up to 6000 Meters

The BH5F is designed for demanding deep-sea operating environments.When correctly installed and used within a qualified connector assembly, the standard product series supports operating depths of up to 6000 meters of seawater, corresponding to approximately 60 MPa of hydrostatic pressure.This makes it suitable for underwater systems deployed in:

• Deep-sea research operations
• Offshore inspection projects
• Oceanographic monitoring stations
• Subsea measurement equipment
• Underwater robotic systems
• Marine industrial installations

The maximum operating depth of the complete installation depends on the connector configuration, mounting arrangement, sealing conditions, and associated equipment.

4. Corrosion-Resistant 316L Stainless Steel Housing

The standard BH5F bulkhead connector features a 316L stainless steel housing.316L stainless steel offers good corrosion resistance and mechanical durability in marine environments.Its robust construction is particularly suitable for underwater equipment exposed to:

• Seawater
• High hydrostatic pressure
• Mechanical vibration
• Repeated deployment and retrieval
• Long-term marine operating conditions

Alternative housing materials and customized configurations may be available depending on project requirements.When installing stainless steel connectors into aluminum housings, appropriate consideration should be given to galvanic corrosion and the use of suitable isolation or protective measures.

5. Secure Bulkhead Mounting and O-Ring Sealing

The BH5F is designed for mounting 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.The connector uses an O-ring sealing arrangement to help maintain a watertight seal between the connector housing and the equipment enclosure.A mounting nut is provided for securing the connector in position.The standard mounting nut is manufactured from POM, while stainless steel options may be available.For reliable sealing performance, the enclosure’s mounting hole, sealing surface, O-ring groove, and wall thickness must comply with the approved installation drawing.

6. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts

The BH5F uses precision-manufactured electrical contacts with gold-plated contact surfaces.Gold plating helps maintain reliable electrical contact and reduces the risk of contact degradation during normal use.The connector is designed for dependable electrical performance across repeated mating cycles when handled and maintained according to the relevant operating instructions.The connector should be kept free from sand, dirt, and other contamination before mating.

7. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads

The BH5F is normally supplied with 0.3 meters of internal wire leads extending from the rear of the bulkhead connector.These leads allow connection to internal equipment components such as:

• Printed circuit boards
• Power distribution terminals
• Control electronics
• Sensor interfaces
• Internal wiring harnesses

Custom wire lengths and termination arrangements can be discussed for OEM and project-specific applications.The rear termination configuration should be confirmed before manufacturing when the installation requires special wire colors, conductor sizes, or wiring assignments.

BH5F Technical Specifications

Paramètres	Specification
Product Model	BH5F
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Série de produits	Standard Circular
Type de connecteur	Female Bulkhead Connector
Contact Configuration	5 Female Contacts
Installation Type	Panel / Bulkhead Mount
Standard Housing Material	Acier inoxydable 316L
Filet de montage	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
Contact Finish	Gold-Plated
Sealing Method	O-Ring Sealing
Mating Connector	IL5M
Protective Dummy Plug	DC5M
Compatible Connector Families	Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular
Mating Capability	Wet-Mateable Design
Warranty	12 Months

Note: Specifications apply to the standard product configuration. Electrical ratings, operating depth, mounting dimensions, and optional components should be verified against the approved product datasheet and installation drawing.

BH5F Five-Pin Wiring Information

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

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 series cable wiring colors.Important: Bulkhead connector pigtail colors may differ depending on the manufacturing configuration. Some bulkhead assemblies use numbered wire identification instead of individual wire colors.For accurate electrical installation, the supplied connector’s pin-number diagram and actual wiring identification should always be used.Custom wiring arrangements may be discussed for OEM applications.

BH5F Compatible Connectors and Accessories

Selecting the correct mating connector and protective accessory is essential for maintaining a reliable underwater electrical connection.

IL5M – 5-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector

Les IL5M is the corresponding male inline connector for the BH5F.It features five male electrical contacts and is commonly supplied with a standard 1-meter underwater cable.When properly mated, the BH5F and IL5M form an underwater electrical connection between the equipment enclosure and the external subsea cable.Typical configuration:BH5F Female Bulkhead + IL5M Male Inline ConnectorThis combination can be used for underwater power distribution, sensor connections, control circuits, and marine electronic systems.

DC5M – 5-Pin Male Protective Dummy Plug

Les DC5M is the corresponding male dummy plug for the BH5F female bulkhead connector.It is designed to cover and protect the connector’s mating interface when the external cable connector is disconnected.The DC5M helps protect the contact area from contamination, mechanical damage, and environmental exposure.Typical configuration:BH5F Female Bulkhead + DC5M Male Dummy PlugThe DC5M is a protective accessory and does not provide an electrical connection.The sealing and pressure capabilities of a dummy-plugged assembly should be verified for the intended deployment conditions.

Difference Between BH5F and BH5M

The BH5F and BH5M are different connector configurations.

• BH5F: Five female contacts; mates with IL5M.
• BH5M: Five male contacts; mates with IL5F.

These two products are alternative bulkhead contact configurations and are not mating counterparts to each other.Customers should verify the required contact gender before ordering.

BH5F Installation Recommendations

Proper installation is essential for achieving reliable electrical and mechanical performance.

Step 1: Confirm the Mounting Dimensions

Before installation, check the approved BH5F technical drawing.Confirm the required panel hole diameter, wall thickness, thread engagement, and sealing surface dimensions.Do not select a panel cutout based solely on the nominal mounting thread size.

Step 2: Inspect the Sealing Surfaces

Check that the connector sealing surfaces and corresponding enclosure surfaces are clean and free from scratches, burrs, or other defects.Inspect the O-ring to ensure that it is correctly positioned and free from damage.

Step 3: Install the Connector

Insert the BH5F through the prepared mounting hole in the equipment enclosure.Secure the connector using the appropriate mounting nut.Use the installation procedure and tightening requirements specified in the approved engineering documentation.Avoid excessive tightening or mechanical loading that could damage the connector or its sealing components.

Step 4: Connect the Internal Wiring

Route the standard 0.3-meter wire leads to the internal electronics or electrical terminals.Check the pin identification carefully before making electrical connections.Provide appropriate strain relief and avoid excessive pulling or sharp bending of the internal wires.

Step 5: Inspect and Test the Assembly

After installation, inspect the connector and verify the electrical connections.Depending on the application, testing may include:

• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Pressure or leakage testing
• Functional testing of the complete equipment

For pressure-sensitive subsea equipment, the completed enclosure should undergo appropriate sealing validation before deployment.

Wet-Mateable Underwater Connector Design

The BH5F belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.The connector is designed to support mating and demating in underwater environments when used with compatible mating components.However, wet-mateable does not automatically mean that the connector is approved for connection or disconnection while carrying electrical power.Electrical power should be switched off before mating or demating unless a specific live-mating capability has been independently qualified for the application.Before mating, inspect the connector interfaces and ensure that the contact surfaces are free from contamination.Follow the approved mating and locking procedure to achieve proper engagement.

Typical Applications of BH5F Underwater Connectors

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

The BH5F can provide an external electrical connection through the pressure housing of an ROV.Applications may include auxiliary sensors, lighting systems, electronic control modules, and other low-power underwater devices.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

AUV systems often require compact and reliable electrical interfaces between internal electronics and external underwater equipment.The BH5F provides a panel-mounted solution for applications requiring five electrical contacts.

Oceanographic Instruments

Marine research systems use underwater connectors to integrate measuring instruments with data acquisition and power distribution equipment.The BH5F can be used in oceanographic monitoring instruments, underwater sensor packages, and scientific measurement systems.

Underwater Cameras and Lighting

Subsea camera housings and lighting assemblies may require sealed electrical connections for power and control circuits.The BH5F offers a robust bulkhead interface for suitable electrical configurations.

Offshore Monitoring Equipment

Offshore structures and subsea installations often rely on durable underwater electrical connectors.The BH5F can be integrated into underwater junction boxes, control housings, and environmental monitoring equipment.

Marine Research and Test Equipment

The connector is also suitable for underwater test fixtures, prototype systems, and research equipment requiring a reusable external electrical connection.

HYSF SUBSEA Manufacturing and Quality Control

HYSF SUBSEA specializes in underwater electrical connectors, fiber optic connectors, underwater cable assemblies, and customized subsea interconnection solutions.Our manufacturing process emphasizes consistent mechanical dimensions, dependable electrical performance, and reliable sealing characteristics.Depending on product specifications and project requirements, quality inspections and qualification tests can include:

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

The BH5F is supplied with a standard 12-month warranty.Product documentation, technical drawings, and customized cable configurations can be provided according to project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BH5F underwater connector?

The BH5F is a 5-pin female bulkhead underwater electrical connector from the HYSF Standard Circular Series. It is designed for installation through the wall of a subsea equipment enclosure.

Is the BH5F compatible with SubConn connectors?

Yes. The BH5F is designed to be compatible with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 5-pin male connectors. The exact mating part number should be confirmed before use.

Which HYSF connector mates with BH5F?

The corresponding HYSF mating connector is IL5M, the 5-pin male inline underwater connector.

Which dummy plug is suitable for BH5F?

The matching protective dummy plug is DC5M, which has a male mating interface suitable for the BH5F female receptacle.

What is the maximum operating depth?

The standard connector series is designed for underwater operation at depths of up to 6000 meters, provided the complete installed assembly meets the applicable sealing and pressure requirements.

What is the mounting thread size?

The standard BH5F mounting thread is 7/16-20 UNF-2A, with a nominal thread length of 19 mm.

What is the standard wire length?

The BH5F is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.

Can the wire length be customized?

Yes. Custom rear wire lengths and termination arrangements can be discussed according to the installation requirements.

What is the rated current?

The standard BH5F is rated at 10 A per electrical contact, subject to the specified operating conditions.

Is BH5F a wet-mateable connector?

Yes. The BH5F belongs to the Standard Circular wet-mateable series. Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless the specific application has been separately qualified for live mating.

What is the difference between BH5F and MCBH5F?

The BH5F belongs to the Standard Circular Series, while the MCBH5F belongs to the Micro Circular Series. They have different mechanical interfaces and should not be treated as interchangeable.

Can BH5F be installed in an aluminum enclosure?

Yes, subject to suitable mounting and sealing design. Appropriate precautions should be taken to address potential galvanic corrosion between the stainless steel connector housing and the aluminum enclosure.

Conclusion

Les HYSF SUBSEA BH5F 5-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector provides a reliable panel-mounted electrical interface for deep-sea equipment, marine instrumentation, underwater robotics, and offshore applications.With its 316L stainless steel housing, 7/16-20 UNF mounting thread, standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads, SubConn-compatible mating interface, and deep-sea pressure capability, the BH5F is a practical choice for subsea electrical system integration.For a complete connection, the BH5F can be paired with the IL5M male inline connector, while the DC5M male dummy plug provides protection for the unmated interface.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized connector configurations and underwater cable assemblies to accommodate specialized subsea project requirements.