IL4M 4-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Series
Reliable 4-Pin Male Underwater Connector for Subsea Power and Signal Applications
Les
HYSF SUBSEA IL4M 4-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector is a high-performance electrical cable connector designed for reliable power and signal transmission in demanding subsea environments.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Series, the IL4M features four male electrical contacts, a durable molded connector body, and an integrated underwater cable.Its robust construction makes it suitable for underwater applications requiring dependable electrical connections under high hydrostatic pressure and prolonged exposure to seawater.The IL4M is designed to mate with the
BH4F 4-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector, creating a watertight connection between external underwater cable assemblies and equipment installed inside a pressure-resistant enclosure.With a standard electrical rating of
550V AC/DC and 10A, the connector is suitable for underwater power distribution, control systems, sensor connections, and instrumentation applications.The HYSF Standard Circular family is designed for operating depths of up to
6,000 meters, making the IL4M a practical solution for ROVs, AUVs, oceanographic instruments, offshore monitoring equipment, and marine engineering systems.
Key Features of the IL4M Underwater Connector
1. Four Male Electrical Contacts
The IL4M incorporates four male electrical contacts that provide four independent electrical circuits.Its four-contact configuration offers flexibility for different subsea power and signal requirements.Typical applications include:
- Low-voltage DC power distribution
- Four-wire underwater sensor connections
- Equipment power and control circuits
- Marine instrumentation
- Auxiliary ROV equipment
- Custom subsea electrical cable assemblies
The connector can support different circuit assignments according to the approved system wiring design.Individual contacts do not have fixed power or signal functions unless specified by the equipment manufacturer.
2. SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Interface
The HYSF IL4M is designed to be compatible with corresponding
SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 4-pin underwater connector interfaces.Its mating configuration allows integration with matching underwater equipment and cable systems.This makes the IL4M suitable for:
- New subsea equipment development
- Replacement underwater cable assemblies
- ROV electrical system upgrades
- Marine equipment maintenance
- Compatible connector replacement projects
The IL4M is primarily used with the
BH4F Female Bulkhead Connector.For existing installations, the original connector model and mating arrangement should be verified before ordering.The IL4M belongs to the Standard Circular family and should not be confused with the smaller MCIL4M Micro Circular connector.
3. Designed for Deep-Sea Operation
The HYSF Standard Circular connector family is engineered for demanding underwater environments, including applications at depths of up to 6,000 meters.This depth corresponds to approximately 60 MPa of hydrostatic pressure.The IL4M can be incorporated into subsea electrical systems requiring reliable connections under high external pressure.Typical environments include:
- Deep-sea research operations
- Offshore inspection projects
- Subsea robotic systems
- Oceanographic monitoring equipment
- Marine scientific instruments
- Underwater industrial systems
The actual operating depth of a completed cable assembly depends on the selected connector configuration, cable construction, proper mating, and applicable pressure qualification.
4. Wet-Mateable Connector Design
The IL4M belongs to HYSF’s wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.The mating interface is designed for underwater connection and disconnection when used according to the relevant operating instructions.This capability can be useful for subsea equipment requiring detachable electrical connections during underwater operations.Wet-mateable connectors can simplify the maintenance and replacement of external components.However,
wet-mateable does not automatically mean that the connector can be mated or unmated while carrying electrical power.The electrical system should be de-energized before mating or unmating unless a specific procedure has been qualified for another condition.
5. Durable Molded Connector Construction
The IL4M features a molded connector body designed to protect the internal electrical termination and support reliable underwater sealing.The molded construction provides a transition between the male contact interface and the attached underwater cable.This design is suitable for marine applications requiring mechanical durability and resistance to environmental exposure.Correct cable handling is important for maintaining connector performance.The cable should not be subjected to excessive pulling forces, tight bends, or repeated twisting near the molded termination.Additional strain relief may be appropriate for systems involving continuous cable movement or vibration.
6. Gold-Plated Male Contacts
The IL4M utilizes gold-plated electrical contacts to support stable electrical conductivity and reliable mating performance.Gold-plated contact surfaces help reduce oxidation and provide an appropriate interface for repeated electrical connections.The connector’s contacts and mating surfaces should be inspected regularly for damage or contamination.Proper cleaning and handling can help preserve the electrical performance of the connector throughout its service life.
7. Standard 1-Meter Underwater Cable
The standard IL4M configuration includes approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.This configuration provides a convenient connection between the subsea connector and the equipment’s electrical termination point.Customized cable lengths are available according to project requirements.Common options include:
- 0.5-meter cable
- 2-meter cable
- 3-meter cable
- 5-meter cable
- 10-meter cable
- Longer custom cable assemblies
Alternative conductor arrangements and cable specifications can also be evaluated.The cable must be selected to meet the required operating voltage, current, mechanical loading, and underwater installation conditions.
IL4M Technical Specifications
| Paramètres | Specification |
|---|
| Manufacturer | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Model Number | IL4M |
| Connector Series | Standard Circular |
| Type de connecteur | Male Inline Underwater Connector |
| Nombre de contacts | 4 |
| Contact Gender | Male |
| Rated Voltage | 550V AC/DC |
| Rated Current | 10A |
| Maximum Rated Operating Depth | Up to 6,000 m |
| Approximate Pressure Rating | 60 MPa |
| Contact Finish | Gold-Plated |
| Connector Construction | Molded Underwater Cable Connector |
| Standard Cable Length | 1 Meter |
| Mating Bulkhead Connector | BH4F |
| Mating Type | Wet-Mateable Series |
| Interface Compatibility | Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 4-Pin |
| Customized Cable Lengths | Available |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Specifications refer to the applicable standard configuration. The complete connector and cable assembly should be confirmed against the intended electrical and pressure requirements.Standard Wiring Identification
The IL4M uses four individually numbered electrical contacts.For the HYSF Standard Circular 4-pin series, the standard conductor identification is:
| Pin Number | Wire Color |
|---|
| Pin 1 | Red |
| Pin 2 | Black |
| Pin 3 | Brown |
| Pin 4 | Blue |
This wiring identification provides a reference for electrical assembly and inspection.The final wiring arrangement should follow the approved product drawing and project-specific requirements.For customized cable assemblies, alternative conductor identification or wiring assignments may be specified before production.When connecting to existing subsea equipment, the pin numbering and electrical functions should always be verified before power is applied.
Compatible Connectors and Accessories
BH4F – 4-Pin Female Bulkhead Connector
Les
BH4F is the primary mating bulkhead connector for the IL4M.It is designed for installation through the wall of a watertight equipment housing.The BH4F provides a female electrical interface for connection to the IL4M male inline connector.The standard 2–5 pin bulkhead family uses a
7/16-20 UNF-2A mounting thread.The BH4F normally includes approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads for connection to electronics inside the enclosure.When the IL4M and BH4F are correctly mated, they provide a four-contact electrical connection between external subsea equipment and internal electrical systems.
DC4M – 4-Pin Male Dummy Plug
Les
DC4M is the corresponding male protective dummy plug for the BH4F female bulkhead connector.When the IL4M cable connector is disconnected, the DC4M can be fitted to the BH4F to protect its exposed mating interface.The dummy plug is intended for connector protection and does not function as an electrical cable assembly.
IL4F – 4-Pin Female Inline Connector
The IL4F is the female inline model in the same Standard Circular 4-pin family.For projects requiring inline cable-to-cable connections, the exact mating and cable configuration should be confirmed using the appropriate technical drawings.
Typical Applications of IL4M
ROV Electrical Systems
Remotely operated vehicles rely on multiple underwater connectors for external sensors, lighting systems, cameras, and auxiliary equipment.The IL4M provides four electrical circuits for compatible power and control applications.When paired with a BH4F bulkhead connector, it creates a practical electrical interface between the equipment housing and external underwater components.
AUV Instrumentation
Autonomous underwater vehicles require dependable electrical connections for integrated sensors and monitoring systems.The IL4M can support connections between external instruments and internal electronic modules.Its four-contact configuration provides flexibility for power and signal distribution.
Underwater Sensors
Many underwater sensors use multiple conductors for electrical power and signal transmission.The IL4M may be suitable for appropriately rated pressure, temperature, and monitoring instruments.The required wiring arrangement should be established according to the connected equipment.
Underwater Cameras and Lighting
The IL4M can be incorporated into compatible underwater camera and lighting systems requiring up to four electrical circuits.Potential configurations include power distribution with additional control or monitoring lines.
Oceanographic Research Equipment
Marine research instruments often operate in seawater under demanding environmental conditions.The IL4M provides a compatible underwater cable interface for scientific instruments and oceanographic monitoring equipment.
Offshore Monitoring and Inspection
Offshore systems may require removable electrical cable assemblies for monitoring, inspection, and control applications.The IL4M provides a Standard Circular four-contact connection option for appropriately specified equipment.
Installation and Handling Recommendations
Reliable underwater operation requires correct connector selection, installation, and maintenance.
Confirm the Mating Interface
Before installation, verify that the mating receptacle uses the corresponding Standard Circular 4-pin female interface.The number of contacts alone is not sufficient to establish compatibility.
Inspect Contact and Sealing Surfaces
Check the connector for damaged contacts, contamination, or worn sealing surfaces.Clean the interface according to the applicable manufacturer instructions.
Avoid Energized Mating
Electrical power should be isolated before connecting or disconnecting the IL4M.Wet-mateable capability does not automatically authorize live electrical mating.
Protect the Molded Cable Transition
Avoid excessive bending, pulling, or twisting near the connector body.For moving cable installations, appropriate strain relief and routing should be provided.
Verify the Electrical Wiring
Check the pin assignments and continuity before energizing the connected system.Incorrect wiring can cause equipment damage even when the connectors are mechanically compatible.
Test the Complete Assembly
Critical subsea equipment should undergo appropriate electrical and pressure verification according to project requirements.
Quality Control and Testing
HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors with attention to reliable sealing, electrical performance, and mechanical integrity.Depending on the product and project requirements, quality control can include:
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance testing
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Cable termination inspection
- Contact identification verification
- Visual inspection of mating and sealing surfaces
Additional testing documentation can be arranged according to agreed project specifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does IL4M mean?
IL4M identifies a
4-pin male inline underwater connector in the HYSF Standard Circular series.IL indicates the inline cable configuration, 4 represents the number of contacts, and M indicates male contacts.
Q2: Which connector mates with IL4M?
The primary mating bulkhead connector is
BH4F, a 4-pin female bulkhead receptacle.
Q3: Is IL4M compatible with SubConn?
The IL4M is designed to be compatible with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 4-pin connector interfaces.The exact original connector model should be verified before replacement.
Q4: What is the rated current of IL4M?
The standard IL4M catalog current rating is
10A.The actual allowable current also depends on the cable conductors, operating temperature, and complete electrical system.
Q5: What is the voltage rating?
The standard catalog voltage rating is
550V AC/DC.
Q6: What is the standard cable length?
The IL4M is normally supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.Other lengths can be specified for customized assemblies.
Q7: Can IL4M operate at 6,000 meters?
The HYSF Standard Circular family is designed for operating depths of up to 6,000 meters.The complete connector and cable assembly must be properly configured, mated, and qualified for the intended operating pressure.
Q8: Is IL4M wet-mateable?
Yes.The IL4M belongs to the wet-mateable Standard Circular series.It should be mated and unmated according to the applicable instructions, with electrical power isolated unless otherwise specifically qualified.
Q9: Is IL4M the same as MCIL4M?
No.IL4M belongs to the Standard Circular family, while MCIL4M belongs to the Micro Circular family.The two models have different physical mating interfaces.
Q10: Which dummy plug protects BH4F?
The corresponding protective dummy plug is
DC4M.It protects the BH4F female mating interface when the IL4M cable connector is disconnected.
Q11: Can the cable length be customized?
Yes.HYSF SUBSEA can provide customized cable lengths and suitable termination arrangements based on the project’s requirements.
Q12: Can IL4M transmit power and signals simultaneously?
The four contacts can be assigned to suitable power and signal circuits within the connector and cable’s electrical ratings.The wiring arrangement and any signal interference requirements should be evaluated for the intended application.
Reliable Four-Contact Connectivity for Subsea Equipment
Les
HYSF SUBSEA IL4M 4-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector provides a dependable solution for underwater power and signal transmission.Its SubConn-compatible Standard Circular interface, four gold-plated male contacts, standard 1-meter underwater cable, and 550V/10A electrical rating make it suitable for a wide range of subsea applications.When paired with the
BH4F Female Bulkhead Connector, the IL4M provides a practical electrical connection for ROVs, AUVs, marine sensors, oceanographic instruments, and offshore monitoring systems.With a durable molded construction and customizable cable options, the IL4M is a versatile component for professional underwater electrical installations.
