BH6M 6-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible

Reliable 6-Pin Male Bulkhead Connector for Deep-Sea Electrical Systems

The BH6M 6-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector from HYSF SUBSEA is a high-performance subsea electrical connector designed to provide dependable power and signal connections through the pressure housings of underwater equipment.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the BH6M features six male electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant metal housing, and a threaded bulkhead mounting design.Engineered for marine environments at depths of up to 6000 meters, the BH6M is suitable for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), oceanographic instruments, subsea monitoring equipment, and offshore electrical systems.The standard BH6M features a 5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread with a nominal threaded length of 19 mm.It is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads, allowing convenient connection to electrical components inside an underwater pressure enclosure.The connector is designed to mate with the IL6F 6-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector.Its Standard Circular interface is also compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON 6-pin female connector configurations.With its durable construction, reliable electrical contacts, and pressure-resistant design, the BH6M provides a practical connection solution for underwater equipment manufacturers and marine engineering applications.

Key Features of the BH6M Underwater Connector

1. Six Male Electrical Contacts

The BH6M incorporates six precision-manufactured male electrical contacts designed for reliable underwater electrical connections.Its six-contact configuration supports multiple electrical circuits within a single bulkhead connector interface.Typical applications include:

• Underwater sensor power supplies
• Marine electronic control systems
• Subsea instrumentation
• Oceanographic monitoring equipment
• Underwater cameras
• Lighting and control circuits
• Offshore electrical monitoring systems

Each contact has a nominal current rating of 10 A, subject to the operating conditions and the complete electrical assembly design.The six-contact configuration provides flexibility for suitable applications requiring several independent electrical circuits.

2. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Interface

The BH6M is designed with a Standard Circular mating interface compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON 6-pin female underwater connectors.This compatibility allows the connector to be considered for new subsea equipment designs and compatible replacement applications.The BH6M can be paired with:

• HYSF IL6F female inline underwater connectors
• Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 6-pin female cable connectors
• Corresponding SEACON Standard Circular 6-pin female cable connectors

For replacement applications, the exact connector part number, contact configuration, and mating arrangement should be verified before installation.Important: The BH6M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and is different from the MCBH6M Micro Circular connector.These two models use different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.

3. Designed for Underwater Depths Up to 6000 Meters

The BH6M is engineered for demanding subsea environments requiring dependable electrical performance under high hydrostatic pressure.The standard connector series supports operating depths of up to 6000 meters of seawater, equivalent to approximately 60 MPa.This makes the BH6M suitable for:

• Deep-sea exploration equipment
• Underwater robotic vehicles
• Oceanographic measurement systems
• Offshore monitoring installations
• Subsea electrical control equipment
• Marine research instruments

The maximum operating depth of the complete installation depends on correct mounting, sealing, mating, and qualification of the assembled underwater system.

4. Corrosion-Resistant 316L Stainless Steel Housing

The standard BH6M bulkhead connector features a 316L stainless steel housing.316L stainless steel provides good mechanical durability and corrosion resistance for marine environments.Its robust construction is suitable for equipment exposed to:

• Seawater
• Hydrostatic pressure
• Mechanical vibration
• Repeated deployment and retrieval
• Offshore operating conditions
• Long-term marine exposure

The metal housing helps maintain the mechanical integrity of the connector during underwater operation.Anodized aluminum configurations may also be available according to project requirements.When installing a stainless steel bulkhead connector into an aluminum enclosure, suitable precautions should be taken to manage the risk of galvanic corrosion.

5. Secure Threaded Bulkhead Mounting

The BH6M is designed for installation through the wall of an underwater pressure housing or equipment enclosure.Its standard mounting thread is:5/8-18 UNF-2AThe nominal threaded length is approximately 19 mm.The threaded mounting arrangement allows the connector to be secured within a compatible bulkhead opening.The connector uses an O-ring sealing arrangement to help provide a watertight interface between the connector housing and the equipment enclosure.The standard connector configuration includes appropriate mounting hardware.Mounting nuts are normally manufactured from POM, while stainless steel options may be available.The installation hole, enclosure wall thickness, thread engagement, and sealing surface must comply with the approved engineering drawing.

6. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts

The BH6M incorporates gold-plated electrical contacts designed for dependable conductivity and stable electrical performance.Gold plating helps maintain reliable contact conditions during normal use and supports repeated mating cycles when the connector is correctly handled and maintained.Before mating the BH6M with a compatible female connector, users should inspect the male contacts and ensure that the mating interface is free from dirt, sediment, and mechanical damage.Proper connector handling and maintenance help preserve reliable underwater electrical performance.

7. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads

The BH6M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads extending from the rear of the bulkhead connector.These leads allow convenient connection to internal equipment components such as:

• Printed circuit boards
• Power distribution terminals
• Marine sensor electronics
• Electrical control modules
• Internal wiring harnesses
• Oceanographic measurement systems

Custom wire lengths and termination configurations can be discussed according to project requirements.Customers requiring special wire colors, conductor sizes, or wiring assignments should confirm the required configuration before production.

BH6M Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Product Model	BH6M
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Product Series	Standard Circular
Connector Type	Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector
Contact Configuration	6 Male Contacts
Installation Type	Panel / Bulkhead Mount
Standard Housing Material	316L Stainless Steel
Optional Housing Material	Anodized Aluminum
Mounting Thread	5/8-18 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
Electrical Contacts	Gold-Plated
Sealing Method	O-Ring Sealing
Mating Connector	IL6F
Protective Dummy Plug	DC6F
Compatible Connector Families	Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular
Mating Capability	Wet-Mateable
Warranty	12 Months

Note: Specifications apply to the standard product configuration. Final dimensions, electrical ratings, mounting requirements, and optional features should be verified against the approved product datasheet and engineering drawings.

BH6M Six-Pin Wiring Information

The HYSF Standard Circular 6-pin connector series lists the following standard cable wiring color sequence:

Pin Number	Standard Wire Color
Pin 1	Red
Pin 2	Black
Pin 3	Yellow
Pin 4	Blue
Pin 5	Green
Pin 6	Brown

This table describes the standard series cable wiring arrangement.Important: The rear pigtail wire colors of bulkhead connectors may differ from those used in inline cable assemblies.Some bulkhead configurations use numbered wires or alternative identification methods.For accurate electrical installation, the actual connector pin diagram and supplied wiring documentation should always be used.Customized wiring assignments and wire identification arrangements can be discussed for OEM applications.

BH6M Compatible Connectors and Accessories

Selecting the correct mating connector and protective accessories is important for reliable underwater electrical operation.

IL6F – 6-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector

The IL6F is the corresponding female inline underwater connector for the BH6M.It features six female electrical contacts and is normally supplied with approximately 1 meter of underwater cable.When correctly mated, the BH6M and IL6F provide a sealed underwater electrical connection between the equipment enclosure and an external subsea cable assembly.Recommended electrical connection:BH6M Male Bulkhead Connector + IL6F Female Inline ConnectorThis combination is suitable for underwater sensor connections, electrical control circuits, and marine instrumentation.

DC6F – 6-Pin Female Protective Dummy Plug

The DC6F is the corresponding female protective dummy plug for the BH6M male bulkhead connector.When the IL6F electrical cable is disconnected, the DC6F can be installed to help protect the exposed male mating interface.The dummy plug helps reduce exposure to contamination and accidental mechanical contact during maintenance and storage.Protective configuration:BH6M Male Bulkhead Connector + DC6F Female Dummy PlugThe DC6F is a non-electrical protective accessory and does not provide an electrical connection.Its suitability for a particular underwater pressure condition should be verified before deployment.

BH6M vs. BH6F

The BH6M and BH6F are opposite-gender bulkhead connector configurations.

Model	Contact Gender	Corresponding Inline Connector
BH6M	Male	IL6F
BH6F	Female	IL6M

Both models belong to the HYSF Standard Circular 6-pin underwater connector series.Customers should verify the required contact gender before ordering.

BH6M Installation Guidelines

Proper installation is essential for achieving reliable electrical performance and maintaining the pressure integrity of an underwater equipment enclosure.

Step 1: Confirm Mounting Dimensions

Before installation, review the approved BH6M technical drawing.Confirm the required panel hole dimensions, wall thickness, thread engagement, and sealing surface specifications.Do not select the mounting hole dimensions based solely on the nominal thread size.

Step 2: Inspect the Connector and O-Ring

Check the connector housing, mounting thread, and sealing components.Ensure that the O-ring is correctly positioned and free from damage or contamination.Inspect the corresponding enclosure sealing surface for scratches, burrs, or other defects.

Step 3: Mount the Connector

Insert the BH6M into the prepared bulkhead opening.Install the appropriate mounting hardware and secure the connector according to the approved installation procedure.Avoid excessive tightening that could damage the connector or sealing components.

Step 4: Connect the Internal Wiring

Route the standard 0.3-meter wire leads to the appropriate electrical components inside the equipment enclosure.Verify the pin numbering and actual conductor identification before making electrical connections.Provide suitable strain relief and avoid excessive pulling forces on the internal leads.

Step 5: Test the Completed Assembly

After installation, inspect and test the connector assembly.Depending on the application, testing may include:

• Electrical continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Dielectric withstand testing
• Functional electrical testing
• Pressure or leakage testing

For underwater pressure housings, the completed installation should undergo appropriate sealing validation before deployment.

Wet-Mateable Underwater Connector Design

The BH6M 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.This capability is useful for underwater maintenance, cable replacement, and marine research applications.However, wet-mateable does not automatically mean live-mateable.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless the specific connector configuration and application have been qualified for energized operation.Before mating, inspect the connector interface for contamination or mechanical damage.Follow the approved mating and locking procedure to achieve proper engagement.

Typical Applications of BH6M Underwater Connectors

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)

ROVs require reliable electrical connections between internal control systems and external underwater equipment.The BH6M can be mounted through the vehicle’s pressure housing to provide suitable power and signal interfaces.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)

AUVs often require durable electrical connections between internal electronics and external sensors.The BH6M provides a six-contact bulkhead interface for suitable AUV equipment.

Marine Sensors and Oceanographic Instruments

Oceanographic instruments frequently require sealed electrical connections for power supply and measurement signals.The BH6M can be integrated into marine sensors, underwater measurement equipment, and monitoring instruments.

Underwater Cameras and Lighting

Subsea cameras and lighting systems may require multiple electrical circuits for power and control.The BH6M provides a robust panel-mounted interface for suitable underwater imaging and lighting equipment.

Offshore Monitoring Systems

Offshore equipment is frequently exposed to challenging marine operating conditions.The BH6M can be installed in suitable underwater junction boxes, subsea control housings, and monitoring systems.

Marine Research and Testing

Research institutions and equipment manufacturers can use the BH6M in underwater experimental systems, prototypes, and scientific measurement equipment.

HYSF SUBSEA Manufacturing and Quality Control

HYSF SUBSEA specializes in manufacturing underwater electrical connectors, subsea cable assemblies, fiber optic connectors, and customized marine interconnection solutions.Our Standard Circular connector series is designed for reliable electrical performance in demanding underwater environments.Depending on product specifications and project requirements, inspections and testing may include:

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

The standard BH6M connector is supplied with a 12-month warranty.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized wire lengths, housing materials, and termination configurations according to project requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BH6M underwater connector?

The BH6M is a 6-pin male bulkhead underwater electrical connector designed for mounting through the wall of a subsea equipment enclosure.

Which connector mates with BH6M?

The corresponding HYSF mating connector is IL6F, the Standard Circular 6-pin female inline underwater connector.

Is BH6M compatible with SubConn?

Yes. The BH6M is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 6-pin female connectors.Exact part-number compatibility should be verified before installation.

What is the maximum operating depth?

The standard connector series supports underwater operating depths of up to 6000 meters, subject to correct installation and qualification of the complete assembly.

What is the mounting thread size?

The standard BH6M mounting thread is 5/8-18 UNF-2A, with a nominal threaded length of 19 mm.

What is the standard internal wire length?

The BH6M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.

Can the internal wire length be customized?

Yes. Custom wire lengths and termination configurations can be discussed according to project requirements.

What material is the housing made from?

The standard BH6M housing is manufactured from 316L stainless steel.Anodized aluminum configurations may also be available.

What is the rated voltage?

The standard connector series is rated at 550 V AC/DC.

What is the rated current?

The standard BH6M is rated at 10 A per contact, subject to the complete electrical assembly design and operating conditions.

Is BH6M wet-mateable?

Yes. The BH6M belongs to the Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless energized mating has been specifically qualified.

Which dummy plug is compatible with BH6M?

The corresponding protective dummy plug is DC6F, which features a female mating interface suitable for the BH6M male connector.

What is the difference between BH6M and MCBH6M?

BH6M belongs to the Standard Circular Series, while MCBH6M belongs to the Micro Circular Series.They have different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.

Conclusion

The HYSF SUBSEA BH6M 6-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector provides a reliable panel-mounted electrical interface for underwater equipment operating in demanding marine environments.Featuring six male electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant 316L stainless steel housing, a 5/8-18 UNF mounting thread, and standard 0.3-meter internal wire leads, the BH6M is suitable for ROVs, AUVs, marine sensors, oceanographic instruments, and offshore monitoring systems.Its compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular connectors makes it a practical solution for new underwater equipment designs and compatible replacement applications.For a complete electrical connection, the BH6M can be paired with the IL6F 6-pin female inline underwater connector.When the external cable is disconnected, the DC6F female dummy plug can be used to protect the male mating interface.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized internal wire lengths, housing materials, and termination arrangements for specialized subsea projects.