IL3M 3-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector

SubConn-Compatible 3-Pin Male Underwater Electrical Connector for Deep-Sea Applications

The HYSF SUBSEA IL3M 3-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector is a high-performance watertight electrical connector designed to provide dependable power and signal connections in challenging marine environments.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the IL3M combines a robust three-contact male interface, gold-plated electrical contacts, and durable molded construction for subsea electrical applications.The connector is suitable for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), marine sensors, underwater cameras, offshore equipment, oceanographic instruments, and other subsea electrical systems.The IL3M is designed to mate with corresponding female Standard Circular connectors, including the IL3F female inline connector and BH3F female bulkhead connector.Its standardized mating interface is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn, SEACON, and Burton Standard Circular connector configurations.This compatibility makes the IL3M a practical option for underwater equipment manufacturers, marine engineering projects, and replacement cable assemblies.With an electrical rating of 550V AC/DC and 10A, the IL3M can be used for suitable three-conductor electrical applications within the specified operating limits.The standard configuration includes a 1-meter cable, while customized cable lengths and assemblies are available for different subsea equipment requirements.

Key Features of the IL3M Underwater Connector

1. Three-Pin Male Electrical Interface

The IL3M features three male electrical contacts designed to provide reliable electrical continuity when connected to a compatible three-pin female connector.Its three-conductor configuration allows greater wiring flexibility than a conventional two-pin connector.Depending on the application, the contacts may be assigned to:

• Positive power supply
• Negative or return conductor
• Signal output
• Control input
• Common reference connection
• Other application-specific electrical functions

For example, a three-wire underwater sensor may require separate conductors for power, ground, and measurement output.The actual pin assignments must follow the connected equipment’s electrical design.

2. SubConn-Compatible Standard Circular Interface

The HYSF IL3M is designed as part of the Standard Circular underwater connector family.Its mating interface is intended to be compatible with corresponding connector configurations from established subsea brands, including SubConn, SEACON, and Burton.This allows the IL3M to be considered as an alternative for compatible existing marine systems.It can also simplify the integration of new underwater cable assemblies with established subsea equipment.Before installation, confirm the exact mating connector model, contact arrangement, and locking configuration.

3. High-Pressure Watertight Design

The HYSF Standard Circular series is engineered for demanding subsea environments.The connector family is designed for pressure capability up to 60 MPa, corresponding to approximately 6,000 meters of seawater depth, when the complete connector assembly is appropriately configured and qualified.The molded connector construction helps protect the internal electrical termination from moisture and external environmental conditions.Actual allowable operating depth depends on the connector configuration, cable construction, mating interface, and complete assembly qualification.

4. Gold-Plated Male Contacts

The IL3M uses gold-plated electrical contacts to support reliable electrical conductivity.Gold plating helps maintain stable contact surfaces and provides resistance to corrosion.This is particularly important for marine equipment requiring dependable electrical performance during extended underwater operation.Proper connector handling and maintenance are necessary to preserve contact integrity.

5. Durable Neoprene Connector Body

The IL3M uses a molded neoprene connector body designed for underwater electrical applications.The molded construction integrates the connector interface with the attached cable, helping protect the termination area.Its flexible design is suitable for subsea cable assemblies, underwater equipment harnesses, and marine instrumentation.

6. Wet-Mateable Connector Technology

The Standard Circular series is designed for wet mating and demating under the applicable operating procedures.This allows compatible connectors to be connected or disconnected underwater when the assembly and operating conditions permit.However, wet-mateable should not be confused with energized mating.Unless the specific connector assembly has been approved for connection under electrical load, power should be disconnected before mating or demating.

7. Standard 1-Meter Cable

The standard IL3M is supplied with a 1-meter cable.This configuration is suitable for many underwater equipment installations.The cable can be integrated into compatible ROV systems, marine sensors, underwater camera equipment, and subsea electrical assemblies.

8. Flexible Cable Customization

HYSF SUBSEA supports custom cable configurations to accommodate different project requirements.Potential customization options include:

• Customized cable lengths
• Alternative conductor sizes
• Different cable outer diameters
• Customer-defined wiring assignments
• Male-to-female underwater cable assemblies
• Double-ended underwater cable assemblies
• Open-ended cable configurations
• Customized subsea equipment harnesses

All customized configurations should be evaluated for electrical loading, cable voltage drop, mechanical strain, and underwater pressure requirements.

IL3M Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Brand	HYSF SUBSEA
Model Number	IL3M
Product Series	Standard Circular Watertight Connectors
Product Type	Male Inline Cable Connector
Number of Contacts	3
Contact Gender	Male
Rated Voltage	550V AC/DC
Rated Current	10A
Contact Surface	Gold-Plated
Connector Body	Molded Neoprene
Standard Cable Length	1 Meter
Standard Wire Colors	Pin 1: Red; Pin 2: Black; Pin 3: Brown
Depth Capability	Up to 6,000 m for Qualified Assemblies
Pressure Capability	Up to 60 MPa for Qualified Assemblies
Mating Design	Wet-Mateable Series
Compatible Female Inline Connector	IL3F
Compatible Female Bulkhead Connector	BH3F
Compatible Protective Dummy Plug	DC3F
Brand Compatibility	Corresponding SubConn, SEACON, and Burton Standard Circular Interfaces
Customization	Available
Typical Applications	ROVs, AUVs, Subsea Sensors, Marine Cameras, Offshore Equipment

Technical Note: The 7/16-20 UNF-2A mounting thread specified for the corresponding Standard 2–5 Pin connector family relates to bulkhead installation interfaces. The IL3M itself is an inline cable connector and does not require a panel mounting hole.

IL3M Standard Cable Wiring

The HYSF Standard 3-Pin connector series uses the following standard wiring colors:

Pin Number	Wire Color
Pin 1	Red
Pin 2	Black
Pin 3	Brown

This color arrangement helps technicians identify the individual conductors during cable installation, equipment integration, and electrical testing.For example, a suitable three-wire DC sensor system might use:

• Pin 1 for positive power
• Pin 2 for ground or return
• Pin 3 for signal output

These assignments are examples only.The connector’s standard wire colors do not establish mandatory electrical functions.The final wiring arrangement must match the electrical specifications of the connected device.Different pin assignments may be implemented for customized cable assemblies.

Compatible Connectors and Accessories

The IL3M must be paired with a compatible female Standard Circular connector.Correct mating compatibility is essential for electrical reliability and watertight performance.

IL3F – 3-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector

The IL3F is the corresponding female inline cable connector.An IL3M and IL3F combination provides a detachable cable-to-cable electrical connection.This configuration is useful for replaceable sensor cables, marine equipment harnesses, and modular subsea systems.

BH3F – 3-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector

The BH3F is the corresponding female bulkhead connector.It can be installed in an appropriately designed underwater equipment housing or pressure enclosure.The IL3M connects to the external mating face of the BH3F, establishing an electrical connection between the external cable and the equipment’s internal wiring.This arrangement is suitable for underwater camera housings, ROV electronics enclosures, marine sensors, and subsea junction boxes.

DC3F – 3-Pin Female Dummy Plug

The DC3F is the corresponding female protective dummy plug.It can be used to protect the exposed male mating interface of the IL3M when the normal electrical connection is disconnected.The DC3F is a protective accessory and does not provide electrical power or signal transmission.

Typical Applications

Remotely Operated Vehicles

ROVs require detachable electrical connections for sensors, cameras, control devices, and other onboard equipment.The IL3M provides a three-pin cable interface for suitable electrical circuits within its rated limits.Its detachable design supports convenient replacement and servicing of connected equipment.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles

AUV systems often use modular instrumentation and external payloads.The IL3M can provide a standardized electrical interface for compatible subsea devices.This supports flexible system integration and equipment maintenance.

Underwater Sensors

Many underwater sensors use three-wire electrical configurations.Typical examples include devices requiring a power supply, ground connection, and analog measurement output.The IL3M can be integrated into suitable sensor cable assemblies where the electrical specifications and environmental requirements are compatible.

Underwater Cameras

Underwater camera systems may use detachable electrical connections for power or supported control circuits.The IL3M can be used with a corresponding BH3F bulkhead connector to provide a cable connection at the equipment enclosure.

Marine Lighting Systems

Some underwater lighting applications require a three-conductor electrical connection.The IL3M can be considered for suitable power and control circuits when the operating voltage, current, and wiring arrangement meet the connector specifications.

Oceanographic Research Instruments

Oceanographic instruments may be deployed for long periods in challenging marine environments.A standardized watertight electrical interface helps simplify equipment integration and maintenance.The IL3M provides a practical connection option for appropriate marine monitoring and research equipment.

Offshore Electrical Equipment

Offshore systems often require robust electrical connections that can tolerate marine operating conditions.The IL3M can be incorporated into suitable subsea cable assemblies, monitoring equipment, and marine electrical installations.

Why Choose the HYSF IL3M Connector?

Standardized Subsea Compatibility

The IL3M is designed for corresponding Standard Circular interfaces, making it suitable for integration with compatible existing underwater systems.

Flexible Three-Conductor Configuration

Its three-contact arrangement allows suitable power, ground, signal, and control configurations.

Deepwater Engineering Capability

The Standard Circular series is developed for demanding underwater environments, with pressure capability dependent on the complete specified assembly.

Custom Cable Options

Different cable lengths and wiring arrangements support integration into various marine equipment designs.

Convenient Equipment Maintenance

Detachable electrical connections allow underwater equipment and cable assemblies to be replaced or serviced without permanently joining their wiring.

Installation and Maintenance Guidelines

Correct installation is essential for maintaining reliable electrical performance.Before mating the IL3M:

1. Confirm that the mating connector is a compatible three-pin female Standard Circular model.
2. Inspect the male contacts for dirt, corrosion, or mechanical damage.
3. Check the connector body and cable termination for visible defects.
4. Ensure that the electrical system is de-energized.
5. Align the mating interfaces correctly.
6. Connect the mating pair carefully without excessive force.
7. Secure the connection using the appropriate locking arrangement.
8. Verify the wiring configuration before applying power.

Do not force an incompatible connector into the mating interface.Avoid pulling directly on the cable jacket when disconnecting the connector.After marine use, clean the exposed connector surfaces according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.When the IL3M is disconnected, the corresponding DC3F female dummy plug can help protect its male mating interface.Before deepwater deployment, ensure that the complete connector, cable assembly, and mating equipment are suitable for the required pressure and environmental conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the IL3M underwater connector?

The IL3M is a three-pin male inline underwater electrical connector belonging to the HYSF Standard Circular series.It provides a detachable electrical connection for compatible underwater equipment.

What does IL3M stand for?

“IL” identifies the inline cable connector configuration, “3” indicates three contacts, and “M” identifies the male contact gender.

Is IL3M compatible with SubConn?

Yes. The HYSF IL3M is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular connector interfaces.The exact mating connector configuration should be verified before use.

Which connectors mate with IL3M?

The primary corresponding HYSF models are IL3F and BH3F.

What is the standard cable length?

The standard IL3M includes a 1-meter cable.Customized lengths are available for different installation requirements.

What is the rated voltage?

The listed voltage rating is 550V AC/DC, subject to the complete connector assembly and operating conditions.

What is the rated current?

The catalog current rating is 10A.Actual operating current must also consider cable conductor size, voltage drop, and installation conditions.

Can IL3M operate at 6,000 meters underwater?

The HYSF Standard Circular series is designed for applications up to approximately 6,000 meters (60 MPa).The complete connector assembly must be appropriately configured and qualified for the required operating depth.

Can IL3M be connected underwater?

The IL3M belongs to a wet-mateable connector series.Mating and demating should follow the applicable procedures, and power should be disconnected unless energized mating has been specifically approved.

What are the standard cable colors?

The standard colors are:

• Pin 1: Red
• Pin 2: Black
• Pin 3: Brown

Which dummy plug protects IL3M?

The corresponding protective accessory is the DC3F 3-Pin Female Dummy Plug.

Is IL3M interchangeable with MCIL3M?

No.The IL3M belongs to the Standard Circular series, while MCIL3M belongs to the Micro Circular series.These are different connector families and should not be treated as interchangeable.

Conclusion

The HYSF SUBSEA IL3M 3-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector provides a dependable electrical connection for suitable three-conductor marine and subsea applications.Featuring a SubConn-compatible Standard Circular interface, gold-plated male contacts, molded watertight construction, and a standard 1-meter cable, the IL3M supports integration into a wide range of underwater systems.Its compatibility with IL3F female inline connectors, BH3F female bulkhead connectors, and DC3F protective dummy plugs makes it suitable for ROVs, AUVs, underwater sensors, marine cameras, offshore equipment, and oceanographic instrumentation.