IL16M 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Series
Product Overview
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HYSF SUBSEA IL16M 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector is a high-performance, wet-mateable subsea electrical connector designed for reliable multi-channel power, signal, and control connections in demanding marine environments.As part of the HYSF SUBSEA Standard Circular Connector Series, the IL16M features sixteen gold-plated male electrical contacts, a durable molded neoprene rubber body, and an integrated underwater cable.Designed for subsea applications at depths of up to
6,000 meters (60 MPa), the IL16M provides a high-density electrical connection solution for underwater equipment operating under significant hydrostatic pressure.The standard connector is rated for
550V AC/DC and 10A per contact, making it suitable for appropriately designed underwater instrumentation, power distribution, monitoring, and electrical control systems.The IL16M is normally supplied with a
1-meter underwater cable, while customized cable lengths, wiring configurations, and complete subsea cable assemblies are available for OEM applications.Its mating interface is designed for compatibility with corresponding
SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular underwater connectors, making it suitable for new marine equipment designs and compatible replacement applications.The primary matching bulkhead connector is the
BH16F 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector.Typical applications include remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), underwater cameras, sonar systems, oceanographic instruments, marine monitoring platforms, and offshore subsea equipment.
Key Features and Benefits
1. High-Density 16-Pin Male Electrical Interface
The IL16M incorporates sixteen precision-manufactured male electrical contacts within a single Standard Circular mating interface.This configuration allows multiple electrical circuits to be integrated into one underwater cable connection.The sixteen-contact design is suitable for applications requiring:
- Multiple underwater sensor channels
- Marine instrumentation connections
- Electrical power and return circuits
- Equipment control signals
- Subsea monitoring systems
- Auxiliary equipment connections
- Multi-conductor underwater cable assemblies
- Robotic system interfaces
Using one high-density underwater connector instead of several individual low-pin-count connectors can simplify cable routing and reduce the number of separate connection interfaces.The actual circuit assignments should be selected according to the electrical requirements of the connected equipment.
2. 10A per Contact Electrical Rating
The IL16M belongs to the HYSF Standard 12/16/25 Pin Circular Connector Series.The standard 16-pin configuration supports a nominal current rating of
10A per contact.This distinguishes it from the smaller Micro Circular 16-pin connector, which has a different electrical rating and physical interface.The IL16M also supports a rated operating voltage of
550V AC/DC, subject to the approved connector and cable configuration.These specifications make it suitable for a variety of appropriately rated subsea electrical applications.However, the allowable operating current of a complete assembly depends on several factors, including:
- Cable conductor cross-sectional area
- Number of simultaneously energized circuits
- Operating temperature
- Cable length and voltage drop
- Connector termination design
- Installation and environmental conditions
The complete electrical system must be evaluated to ensure safe operation within the applicable ratings.
3. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Design
The HYSF IL16M is designed for mating compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 16-pin connector interfaces.This compatibility is particularly valuable for customers maintaining existing subsea equipment or developing new systems that use established underwater connector configurations.Potential applications include:
- Replacement subsea cable assemblies
- Underwater instrument upgrades
- ROV equipment maintenance
- OEM marine electrical systems
- Offshore connector replacement
- Custom subsea cable manufacturing
Before installing the IL16M with another manufacturer’s connector, verify the exact mating interface, contact configuration, mechanical dimensions, and locking arrangement.
Important: IL16M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and should not be confused with MCIL16M, which belongs to the Micro Circular Series.These connector families use different mechanical interfaces and should not be considered interchangeable.
4. Deep-Sea Performance up to 6,000 Meters
The HYSF Standard Circular connector family is designed for demanding deep-sea applications.The series supports operating pressure capability up to
60 MPa, corresponding to approximately
6,000 meters of seawater depth.This makes the IL16M suitable for consideration in applications involving:
- Deep-sea scientific research
- Underwater robotic vehicles
- Seabed monitoring instruments
- Offshore inspection equipment
- Subsea observation systems
- Marine environmental monitoring
- Underwater exploration platforms
The connector’s molded construction helps protect the electrical termination from external seawater exposure.Actual operating depth depends on the complete connector assembly, including its mating connector, cable construction, termination arrangement, and required pressure qualification.For critical applications, the complete cable and connector system should be verified for the intended working depth.
5. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connection
The IL16M belongs to HYSF SUBSEA’s wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.When used with a compatible mating connector, the interface is designed to support underwater connection and disconnection according to the appropriate operating procedures.Wet-mateable technology is useful in applications where underwater equipment may require periodic servicing, sensor replacement, or cable disconnection.Typical examples include modular ROV systems, underwater scientific instruments, and detachable subsea equipment.
Important: Wet-mateable does not automatically mean that the connector is suitable for connection or disconnection while electrically energized.Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating unless the complete assembly has been specifically qualified for energized operation.
6. Durable Molded Neoprene Rubber Body
The standard IL16M features a molded neoprene rubber connector body.Neoprene rubber is widely used in underwater connector manufacturing because of its flexibility and suitability for demanding marine operating environments.The molded construction provides a protective transition between the electrical contact assembly and the attached underwater cable.Key advantages include:
- Watertight molded construction
- Mechanical flexibility
- Protection of cable terminations
- Resistance to routine marine handling
- Integrated cable support
- Suitability for high-pressure applications
The underwater cable should be routed carefully to prevent excessive bending, pulling, or twisting forces near the molded connector body.
7. Gold-Plated Male Electrical Contacts
The IL16M incorporates sixteen gold-plated male contacts designed for dependable electrical connectivity.Gold plating provides a conductive contact surface and helps reduce oxidation that may affect electrical performance.Reliable contact performance is important for subsea instrumentation and control systems where stable electrical continuity is required.Before mating, users should inspect the contacts and surrounding mating interface for contamination, wear, or visible mechanical damage.Correct installation and maintenance can help preserve connector performance during repeated underwater operations.
8. Standard 1-Meter Cable with Customization Options
The standard IL16M configuration is supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.This provides a convenient cable-mounted interface for many marine electrical installations.HYSF SUBSEA supports customized subsea cable assemblies according to project requirements.Available options may include:
- Custom cable lengths
- Different cable conductor sizes
- Alternative cable outer diameters
- Customized pin assignments
- Shielded cable configurations
- Specialized cable jacket materials
- Connector-to-connector assemblies
- Open-ended cable terminations
- Custom equipment wiring harnesses
- OEM underwater cable assemblies
The selected cable must be suitable for the required electrical load, environmental conditions, and mechanical installation.
IL16M Technical Specifications
| Paramètres | Specification |
|---|
| Brand | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Model | IL16M |
| Connector Series | Standard Circular |
| Type de connecteur | Male Inline Underwater Connector |
| Nombre de contacts | 16 |
| Contact Gender | Male |
| Contact Finish | Gold-Plated |
| Connector Body | Molded Neoprene Rubber |
| 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 |
| Standard Cable Length | 1 Meter |
| Custom Cable Lengths | Available |
| Primary Mating Bulkhead | BH16F |
| Corresponding Female Inline | IL16F |
| Protective Dummy Plug for IL16M | DC16F |
| Protective Dummy Plug for BH16F | DC16M |
| Compatibility | Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular Interfaces |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Technical Note: The listed depth, voltage, and current ratings must be considered together with the complete approved connector and cable assembly. Electrical loading and environmental qualification depend on the actual configuration.
Standard IL16M 16-Pin Cable Wiring Colors
The HYSF Standard Circular 16-pin connector series uses the following standard 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 16-pin cable conductor identification arrangement.The actual pin-to-wire mapping should always be verified using the wiring diagram supplied with the completed cable assembly.Customized cables may have different conductor colors or wiring assignments.The connector’s standard color identification does not establish mandatory power, signal, or ground functions for each contact.
Compatible Connectors and Accessories
BH16F – 16-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector
Les
BH16F is the primary female bulkhead mating connector for the IL16M.The BH16F is designed for installation through the wall of an underwater pressure housing, marine instrument enclosure, or subsea equipment panel.Typical characteristics include:
- Sixteen female electrical contacts
- Standard 316L stainless steel housing
- Gold-plated contact surfaces
- O-ring bulkhead sealing
- Standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads
- Wet-mateable Standard Circular interface
The corresponding Standard 12/16/25 Pin bulkhead family specifies a
3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting thread, with a nominal thread length of
25 mm.These mounting dimensions belong to the BH16F bulkhead, not the IL16M inline cable connector.Before machining a pressure housing, the final BH16F mounting drawing must be checked.
Normal electrical configuration:IL16M Male Inline Connector + BH16F Female Bulkhead ConnectorThis arrangement provides a detachable connection between the external underwater cable and the equipment’s internal electrical system.
IL16F – 16-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector
Les
IL16F is the corresponding female inline cable connector in the Standard Circular 16-pin family.For applications requiring cable-to-cable connections, a compatible IL16M and IL16F mating arrangement may be used when the selected connector interfaces, locking components, and cable configurations are correctly specified.This can be useful for underwater cable extensions and modular subsea electrical systems.
DC16F – 16-Pin Female Dummy Plug
Les
DC16F is a female protective dummy plug intended for compatible male Standard Circular connector interfaces.It can help protect the exposed IL16M male mating interface when the operational connection is disconnected.The dummy plug is a protective accessory rather than a functional electrical connector.
DC16M – 16-Pin Male Dummy Plug
Les
DC16M is the corresponding male protective dummy plug for compatible female Standard Circular connector interfaces, including the BH16F female bulkhead.When the IL16M cable connector is removed from a BH16F, the DC16M can help protect the female bulkhead interface.
Advantages of a 16-Pin Underwater Connector
Higher Circuit Capacity
The IL16M provides sixteen electrical contacts through a single connector interface.This can simplify system integration where multiple independent electrical paths are required.
Reduced Number of Connections
Using a high-density connector may reduce the number of separate electrical connection interfaces compared with several lower-pin-count connectors.This can simplify cable routing and equipment layout.
Flexible Electrical Design
The sixteen contacts can be allocated to appropriate power, sensor, control, and instrumentation circuits.
Detachable Cable Configuration
The inline design supports equipment servicing and replacement of detachable underwater cable assemblies.
Compatibility With Established Interfaces
The Standard Circular mating design supports integration with corresponding compatible underwater connector systems.
Typical Applications of the IL16M Underwater Connector
1. Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
ROVs often contain numerous electrical systems requiring connections between the vehicle’s electronics and external equipment.The IL16M can support appropriate electrical circuits for sensors, auxiliary devices, control modules, and monitoring systems.Its sixteen-contact design is useful for cable assemblies requiring multiple independent conductors.
2. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
AUV systems frequently require detachable electrical interfaces for external instruments and modular payloads.The IL16M can provide a Standard Circular cable connection suitable for integration into compatible AUV electrical systems.
3. Underwater Cameras and Imaging Systems
Underwater imaging equipment may require multiple electrical connections for power, control, and auxiliary functions.The IL16M provides a compact multi-contact interface for suitably designed camera cable assemblies.Compatibility with high-speed video or Ethernet systems depends on the complete cable design, conductor arrangement, and required signal performance.
4. Oceanographic Instruments
Marine scientific instruments may require several conductors for sensor excitation, measurement signals, monitoring circuits, and auxiliary equipment.The IL16M can be used in suitable oceanographic measurement systems and marine research instruments.
5. Sonar and Hydrophone Systems
Underwater acoustic equipment often requires reliable electrical connections between sensor modules and electronic processing equipment.The IL16M provides sixteen electrical contacts for appropriate power and instrumentation circuits.For sensitive acoustic measurements, cable shielding, grounding, and signal integrity should be evaluated.
6. Offshore Monitoring Equipment
The IL16M can be integrated into suitable offshore monitoring systems, underwater control modules, and marine electronic equipment.Its Standard Circular interface provides a practical option for compatible subsea cable assemblies.
7. Subsea Research and Testing Equipment
Research institutions and underwater equipment manufacturers often develop custom instruments requiring several electrical connections.The IL16M offers a configurable cable-mounted interface for suitable research, testing, and monitoring applications.
Installation and Handling Guidelines
Correct handling is essential for dependable underwater connector performance.
Step 1: Confirm Connector Compatibility
Verify the exact mating connector model, contact arrangement, and Standard Circular interface.The primary mating bulkhead connector is BH16F.
Step 2: Inspect the Connector
Before installation, examine the molded connector body, electrical contacts, and cable termination for visible damage.
Step 3: Clean the Mating Interface
Ensure the connector face is free from sand, sediment, salt deposits, and other contamination.Use an approved cleaning procedure appropriate for the connector materials.
Step 4: Isolate Electrical Power
Disconnect electrical power before mating or unmating unless energized operation has been specifically qualified.
Step 5: Align the Connector
Align the IL16M correctly with its corresponding female mating interface.Avoid excessive force or incorrect engagement.
Step 6: Complete the Mating Operation
Follow the approved mating procedure and use the appropriate locking or retention arrangement.
Step 7: Protect the Cable
Avoid excessive bending, twisting, or pulling forces near the molded cable termination.Provide suitable cable strain relief where required.
Step 8: Verify Electrical Performance
Before operation, check the required wiring assignments, continuity, and insulation performance.For critical deep-sea applications, the completed assembly should meet the specified pressure and environmental requirements.
Quality Control and Testing
HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors and customized subsea cable assemblies for demanding marine applications.Depending on the product configuration and project specifications, quality-control procedures may include:
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance measurement
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Contact inspection
- Dimensional verification
- Cable termination inspection
- Mechanical integrity evaluation
- Wiring identification checks
Additional inspection requirements may be specified for customized cable assemblies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is IL16M?
The IL16M is a
16-pin male inline underwater electrical connector belonging to the HYSF SUBSEA Standard Circular Series.
Q2: Which bulkhead connector mates with IL16M?
The primary matching bulkhead connector is
BH16F, a 16-pin female Standard Circular bulkhead connector.
Q3: Is IL16M compatible with SubConn?
The IL16M 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 rated current?
The standard IL16M is rated for
10A per contact, subject to the complete connector and cable assembly design.
Q5: What is the rated voltage?
The Standard Circular series specifies
550V AC/DC.
Q6: What is the maximum operating depth?
The series is designed for operation at depths up to
6,000 meters, corresponding to approximately
60 MPa, subject to qualification of the complete assembly.
Q7: Is IL16M wet-mateable?
Yes. It belongs to the wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family. Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating unless otherwise specifically qualified.
Q8: What is the standard cable length?
The IL16M is normally supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.
Q9: Can the cable length be customized?
Yes. Customized cable lengths and termination arrangements are available for different underwater equipment requirements.
Q10: Is IL16M the same as MCIL16M?
No. IL16M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and has a catalog current rating of 10A per contact.MCIL16M belongs to the smaller Micro Circular Series and has a different mating interface and nominal 5A contact rating.
Q11: Does IL16M have a mounting thread?
No. IL16M is an inline cable connector and does not require a panel mounting thread.The corresponding BH16F bulkhead belongs to the 3/4-16 UNF-2A mounting family.
Q12: Which dummy plug protects IL16M?
Les
DC16F female dummy plug is the corresponding protective accessory for its male connector interface.
Q13: Which dummy plug protects BH16F?
Les
DC16M male dummy plug is the corresponding protective accessory for the BH16F female bulkhead interface.
Q14: Can IL16M transmit power and signals together?
Its sixteen contacts can be allocated to suitable power and signal circuits within the approved electrical specifications.The cable construction, shielding, conductor sizing, and interference requirements must be considered.
Q15: Can IL16M be used for Ethernet?
The connector contains sixteen electrical contacts, but contact count alone does not guarantee Ethernet compatibility.A suitable cable construction, conductor pairing, shielding design, and system-level performance verification are required.
Why Choose HYSF SUBSEA IL16M?
Les
HYSF SUBSEA IL16M 16-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector provides a practical high-density electrical connection solution for professional marine and subsea applications.Its key advantages include:
- Sixteen male electrical contacts
- SubConn-compatible Standard Circular interface
- Wet-mateable connector design
- Rated current of 10A per contact
- Rated voltage of 550V AC/DC
- Design depth capability up to 6,000 meters
- Durable molded neoprene rubber body
- Gold-plated electrical contacts
- Standard 1-meter underwater cable
- Compatible BH16F female bulkhead connector
- Protective DC16F dummy plug option
- Customized subsea cable assembly options
- 12-month product warranty
For engineers developing underwater robotic systems, marine instruments, sonar equipment, oceanographic monitoring platforms, and offshore electrical equipment, the IL16M offers a reliable and configurable multi-contact subsea connection interface.
