IL4F 4-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Series
Reliable 4-Pin Female Underwater Connector for Subsea Power and Signal Transmission
The
HYSF SUBSEA IL4F 4-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector is a high-performance subsea electrical connector designed for reliable power and signal transmission in demanding underwater environments.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Series, the IL4F features four female electrical contacts, a durable molded body, and an integrated underwater cable for convenient installation.The connector is designed to mate with the
BH4M 4-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector, providing an electrical interface between external subsea equipment and electronics installed inside a watertight housing.With a standard electrical rating of
550V AC/DC and 10A, the IL4F is suitable for a wide range of underwater electrical applications.The Standard Circular series is designed for operating depths of up to
6,000 meters (approximately 60 MPa) when the complete connector assembly is properly installed and qualified.Its SubConn-compatible interface makes the IL4F a practical solution for ROVs, AUVs, underwater sensors, marine research equipment, offshore monitoring systems, and industrial subsea applications.
Key Features of the IL4F Underwater Connector
1. Four Female Electrical Contacts
The IL4F incorporates four female electrical contacts for applications requiring up to four individual electrical circuits.This configuration provides flexibility for underwater power, control, and instrumentation systems.Typical electrical arrangements may include:
- Positive and negative power connections
- Power supply with additional signal lines
- Multi-wire underwater sensors
- Instrumentation and monitoring circuits
- Equipment control connections
- Custom four-conductor cable assemblies
The actual electrical functions of the four contacts depend on the approved wiring arrangement.The connector does not assign fixed power or communication functions to individual contacts unless specified in the system wiring design.
2. SubConn Compatible Standard Circular Interface
The HYSF IL4F is designed for compatibility with corresponding
SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 4-pin underwater connector interfaces.Its standardized mating configuration allows it to be considered for new subsea equipment as well as replacement cable assemblies.The IL4F is primarily paired with the
BH4M Male Bulkhead Connector.For existing equipment, compatibility should be confirmed against the exact connector series, mating geometry, and contact configuration.HYSF’s Standard Circular and Micro Circular connector families use different mating interfaces.Therefore, the IL4F should not be confused with the smaller
MCIL4F Micro Circular Connector.
3. Designed for Deep-Sea Applications
The HYSF Standard Circular connector series is designed for demanding subsea environments, with applicable configurations rated for depths of up to 6,000 meters.This corresponds to approximately 60 MPa of hydrostatic pressure.The IL4F is suitable for integration into underwater systems requiring dependable electrical connections under high external pressure.Potential applications include:
- Deep-sea ROV systems
- AUV instrumentation
- Oceanographic research instruments
- Underwater monitoring equipment
- Offshore inspection systems
- Subsea sensor networks
The operating depth of the complete cable assembly depends on the connector configuration, mating condition, cable construction, and system qualification.Proper sealing and installation are essential for achieving the specified underwater performance.
4. Wet-Mateable Connector Design
The IL4F belongs to the HYSF wet-mateable Standard Circular connector family.The mating interface is designed for connection and disconnection in underwater environments when used according to the applicable operating instructions.Wet-mateable capability provides flexibility for underwater maintenance, equipment replacement, and modular subsea systems.However,
wet-mateable does not mean that the connector should be connected or disconnected while electrically energized.Electrical power should be isolated before mating or unmating the connector unless a separately qualified procedure explicitly permits another operating condition.
5. Durable Molded Connector Body
The IL4F features a molded connector construction designed to withstand demanding marine operating conditions.The molded body supports the connector’s sealing interface and provides a transition between the electrical contacts and the attached underwater cable.This construction helps protect the cable termination area from moisture and mechanical stress.The connector should be handled carefully to avoid excessive cable pulling, twisting, or bending near the molded transition.For installations involving repeated cable movement, appropriate cable routing and strain relief should be incorporated into the equipment design.
6. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts
The IL4F uses gold-plated electrical contacts to support stable electrical conductivity and reliable mating performance.Gold-plated contacts provide a suitable surface for repeated electrical connections and help reduce contact oxidation.Proper inspection and maintenance can help preserve contact performance throughout the connector’s service life.The mating interface should be kept clean and free from damage, sediment, and other contaminants.
7. Standard 1-Meter Underwater Cable
The IL4F is normally supplied with
1 meter of underwater cable.This standard configuration provides a convenient connection between the subsea equipment and the electrical termination point.Alternative cable lengths can be specified to match project requirements.Common customized lengths include:
- 0.5 meters
- 2 meters
- 3 meters
- 5 meters
- 10 meters
- Longer cable assemblies upon request
Custom cable construction, conductor sizes, and termination arrangements may also be evaluated according to the electrical and mechanical requirements.The selected cable must be suitable for the intended voltage, current, deployment depth, and operating environment.
IL4F Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Manufacturer | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Model Number | IL4F |
| Connector Series | Standard Circular |
| Connector Type | Female Inline Underwater Connector |
| Number of Contacts | 4 |
| Contact Gender | Female |
| 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 Body | Molded Underwater Connector |
| Standard Cable Length | 1 Meter |
| Mating Bulkhead Connector | BH4M |
| Mating Type | Wet-Mateable Series |
| Interface Compatibility | Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 4-Pin |
| Custom Cable Length | Available |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Specifications refer to the standard product family and applicable connector configuration. Final electrical, cable, and pressure requirements should be confirmed before ordering.IL4F Standard Wiring Identification
The IL4F uses four numbered contacts to support accurate wiring and installation.For the HYSF Standard Circular 4-pin series, the standard conductor color identification is:
| Contact Number | Wire Color |
|---|
| Pin 1 | Red |
| Pin 2 | Black |
| Pin 3 | Brown |
| Pin 4 | Blue |
This identification helps simplify electrical assembly and troubleshooting.The final wiring arrangement should always follow the approved product drawing and project-specific pin assignment.Custom wiring configurations may be provided for applications requiring different electrical functions or conductor arrangements.When integrating the IL4F with third-party equipment, engineers should verify the mating connector’s pin numbering and electrical assignments before applying power.
Compatible Connectors and Accessories
BH4M – 4-Pin Male Bulkhead Connector
The
BH4M is the corresponding male bulkhead connector for the IL4F female inline connector.The BH4M is designed for installation through the wall of a watertight equipment housing.Its standard 2–5 pin family mounting thread is
7/16-20 UNF-2A.The BH4M is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads for connection to electronics inside the enclosure.When the IL4F and BH4M are properly mated, they provide a four-contact electrical connection between the external underwater cable and internal equipment.
DC4F – 4-Pin Female Dummy Plug
The
DC4F is the corresponding female protective dummy plug for the BH4M male bulkhead interface.When the IL4F electrical cable is disconnected, the DC4F can be installed to protect the exposed BH4M connector interface.The dummy plug is intended for environmental protection and does not function as an electrical cable connector.
IL4M – 4-Pin Male Inline Connector
The IL4M is the male inline model in the same Standard Circular 4-pin family.For applications requiring an inline male-to-female connection, the complete configuration and mating arrangement should be confirmed using the appropriate technical drawing.
Typical Applications of IL4F
ROV Electrical Connections
Remotely operated vehicles often require reliable external cable connections for sensors, cameras, lighting, and auxiliary equipment.The IL4F can provide four electrical circuits for appropriately rated underwater components.When paired with a BH4M connector, it creates a practical connection between the external cable and internal electronics.
AUV Instrumentation Systems
Autonomous underwater vehicles rely on compact and reliable electrical interfaces.The IL4F can support connections between equipment housings and external instruments, including sensors and monitoring devices.Its four-contact arrangement provides flexibility for both power and signal requirements.
Underwater Sensors
Many marine sensors use three- or four-conductor electrical connections.The IL4F may be used for suitable underwater sensing applications, including pressure sensors, temperature instruments, and monitoring equipment.The specific electrical interface must be compatible with the connector’s ratings and cable construction.
Underwater Cameras and Lighting
The IL4F can be integrated into underwater camera systems, auxiliary lighting equipment, and other subsea devices requiring four conductors.For applications involving both power and control signals, appropriate pin assignments and electrical isolation should be incorporated into the system design.
Oceanographic Research Equipment
Marine research instruments often operate in demanding seawater conditions.The IL4F provides a dependable cable connection option for scientific equipment deployed from research vessels or installed in underwater monitoring stations.
Offshore Monitoring Systems
Offshore equipment may use detachable underwater cables for monitoring, inspection, and control.The IL4F is suitable for projects requiring a compatible Standard Circular four-contact electrical interface.
Installation and Handling Recommendations
Correct connector handling is essential for reliable underwater operation.
Verify Connector Compatibility
Before connecting the IL4F, confirm that the mating connector uses the corresponding Standard Circular 4-pin interface.Do not assume compatibility based only on contact count.
Inspect Mating Surfaces
Check the connector for contamination, scratches, deformation, or damaged sealing surfaces.The interface should be cleaned using an approved connector maintenance procedure.
Avoid Live Mating
Electrical power should be isolated before connecting or disconnecting the IL4F.The wet-mateable design does not automatically permit mating under electrical load.
Protect the Cable Transition
Avoid excessive bending, tension, or twisting near the molded cable entry.Additional cable support may be appropriate for installations involving vibration or repeated movement.
Check Pin Assignments
Verify electrical continuity and the approved wiring arrangement before energizing the system.Incorrect pin assignments can damage connected equipment even when the connectors are mechanically compatible.
Perform Appropriate Testing
For critical applications, the complete connector assembly should be tested according to project requirements.Testing may include electrical continuity, insulation resistance, dielectric withstand, and hydrostatic pressure verification.
Quality Control and Testing
HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors with an emphasis on reliable sealing, stable electrical performance, and mechanical durability.Depending on the product configuration and project specifications, quality control may include:
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance testing
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Cable and molded termination inspection
- Contact identification verification
- Visual inspection of sealing surfaces
Additional inspection and testing documentation may be arranged for qualified projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does IL4F mean?
IL4F identifies a
4-pin female inline underwater connector in the HYSF Standard Circular series.IL indicates the inline cable configuration, 4 represents the number of contacts, and F indicates female contacts.
Q2: Which connector mates with IL4F?
The primary corresponding bulkhead connector is
BH4M, a 4-pin male bulkhead receptacle.
Q3: Is IL4F compatible with SubConn?
The IL4F is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 4-pin connector interfaces.The exact mating configuration should be verified for replacement applications.
Q4: What is the rated current?
The standard IL4F catalog current rating is
10A.The permissible operating current must also account for the attached cable, conductor size, and operating conditions.
Q5: What is the voltage rating?
The standard catalog voltage rating is
550V AC/DC.
Q6: What is the standard cable length?
The standard IL4F is supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.Customized lengths are available for specified assemblies.
Q7: Can IL4F operate at 6,000 meters underwater?
The HYSF Standard Circular connector family is designed for depths of up to 6,000 meters.The complete cable assembly must be properly configured, mated, and qualified for the intended pressure.
Q8: Is IL4F wet-mateable?
Yes. The IL4F belongs to HYSF’s wet-mateable Standard Circular family.The connector should be mated and unmated according to the relevant instructions and without electrical power unless otherwise specifically qualified.
Q9: Is IL4F the same as MCIL4F?
No.The IL4F is a Standard Circular connector, while the MCIL4F belongs to the Micro Circular series.Their physical mating interfaces are different.
Q10: What dummy plug is used for the BH4M bulkhead?
The corresponding protective dummy plug is
DC4F.It protects the BH4M male interface when the IL4F cable connector is disconnected.
Q11: Can the cable length be customized?
Yes.Different cable lengths and suitable termination configurations can be specified according to project requirements.
Q12: Can IL4F transmit both power and signals?
Yes, the four contacts may be assigned to suitable power and signal circuits within the approved electrical ratings.The system wiring, interference requirements, and conductor specifications should be evaluated for the intended application.
Dependable 4-Pin Electrical Connectivity for Subsea Systems
The
HYSF SUBSEA IL4F 4-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector provides a reliable solution for underwater power and signal connections.With its SubConn-compatible Standard Circular interface, four gold-plated electrical contacts, 550V/10A rating, and standard 1-meter cable, it is suitable for a wide range of marine and subsea equipment.When combined with the
BH4M Male Bulkhead Connector, the IL4F creates a practical watertight connection for ROVs, AUVs, underwater sensors, oceanographic instruments, and offshore monitoring systems.Its durable molded construction, deep-sea design, and configurable cable options make it a versatile component for professional underwater electrical installations.
