IL6M 6-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible
Reliable 6-Pin Male Inline Connector for Deep-Sea Electrical Connections
The
IL6M 6-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector from HYSF SUBSEA is a high-performance subsea electrical connector designed for reliable power and signal transmission in demanding marine environments.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Connector Series, the IL6M features six male electrical contacts, a durable molded elastomeric body, and an integrated underwater cable for convenient connection to subsea equipment.Engineered for underwater applications at depths of up to
6000 meters, the IL6M is suitable for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), oceanographic instruments, underwater cameras, marine sensors, and offshore monitoring systems.The standard IL6M is supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable, making it a practical solution for connecting external marine equipment to a compatible bulkhead receptacle.The connector is designed to mate with the
BH6F 6-pin female bulkhead underwater connector.Its Standard Circular mating interface is also compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON 6-pin female connectors, providing flexibility for new equipment designs and compatible replacement applications.With its robust construction, gold-plated electrical contacts, and deep-sea pressure capability, the IL6M provides dependable performance for subsea electrical connection systems.
Key Features of the IL6M Underwater Connector
1. Six Male Electrical Contacts
The IL6M features six precision-manufactured male electrical contacts designed for stable underwater electrical connections.Its six-contact configuration allows multiple electrical circuits to be connected through a single circular interface.Typical applications include:
- Underwater sensor power supplies
- Marine instrumentation
- Electrical control circuits
- Underwater lighting systems
- Camera control connections
- Oceanographic monitoring equipment
- Subsea electronic modules
Each contact has a nominal current rating of
10 A, subject to the cable configuration and operating conditions.The connector can support suitable combinations of power and signal conductors within the specified electrical limits.Customers should verify the conductor size, current requirements, and wiring configuration before installation.
2. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Standard Circular Interface
The IL6M is manufactured with a mating interface designed to be compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular 6-pin female connectors.This compatibility makes it suitable for marine equipment manufacturers and operators seeking compatible underwater cable assemblies.The IL6M can be paired with:
- HYSF BH6F female bulkhead connectors
- Corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 6-pin female receptacles
- Corresponding SEACON Standard Circular 6-pin female receptacles
Before selecting a replacement connector, customers should verify the exact connector model, contact configuration, and locking arrangement.
Important: IL6M belongs to the Standard Circular Series and should not be confused with the MCIL6M Micro Circular underwater connector.Although both models have six male contacts, they use different mechanical interfaces.
3. Designed for Underwater Depths Up to 6000 Meters
The IL6M is engineered for underwater environments requiring reliable electrical performance under high hydrostatic pressure.The standard connector series supports operating depths of up to
6000 meters of seawater, corresponding to approximately 60 MPa of hydrostatic pressure.This makes the connector suitable for applications such as:
- Deep-sea exploration
- Offshore inspection
- Underwater robotic operations
- Marine scientific research
- Subsea monitoring installations
- Oceanographic measurement systems
The maximum operating depth of the complete cable assembly depends on the selected cable, connector configuration, correct mating, and qualification of the assembled system.
4. Durable Molded Neoprene Rubber Construction
The standard IL6M connector features a molded elastomeric body designed for underwater applications.Neoprene rubber provides flexibility, mechanical durability, and environmental resistance suitable for subsea electrical systems.The molded construction helps protect the connector termination area and provides strain relief where the underwater cable enters the connector body.This design is useful in environments involving:
- Continuous seawater exposure
- Underwater pressure
- Equipment vibration
- Repeated deployment and retrieval
- Routine handling during maintenance
The connector should be protected from excessive pulling forces, sharp cable bends, and mechanical impacts that exceed the approved installation requirements.
5. Gold-Plated Electrical Contacts
The IL6M incorporates gold-plated electrical contacts designed to provide reliable conductivity and stable electrical performance.Gold plating helps reduce contact degradation and supports dependable electrical connections when the connector is correctly mated and maintained.The contact system is designed for repeated mating cycles under appropriate operating conditions.Before connecting the IL6M to its corresponding female receptacle, users should inspect the mating interface and ensure that it is free from sand, sediment, and other contamination.
6. Standard 1-Meter Underwater Cable
The IL6M is normally supplied with approximately
1 meter of integrated underwater cable.This standard configuration provides a convenient connection between the subsea connector and external electrical equipment.The cable can be routed to:
- Underwater sensors
- Electronic control modules
- Power supply systems
- Camera assemblies
- Marine measurement instruments
- Electrical junction boxes
Custom cable lengths can be discussed according to project requirements.Available customization may include different cable lengths, conductor configurations, cable construction, and termination arrangements.Customers requiring special conductor sizes, shielding, or wiring assignments should confirm the requirements before production.
7. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connector Design
The IL6M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.This design allows the connector to be mated and demated in underwater environments when used with compatible mating components and according to the approved operating procedure.Wet-mateable connectors are useful for subsea equipment servicing and underwater cable replacement.However, wet-mateable does not automatically mean live-mateable.
Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless the specific connector configuration has been qualified for energized operation.IL6M Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Product Model | IL6M |
| Brand | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Product Series | Standard Circular |
| Connector Type | Male Inline Underwater Connector |
| Contact Configuration | 6 Male Contacts |
| Installation Type | Cable-Mounted Inline Connector |
| Standard Connector Body | Molded Neoprene Rubber |
| Standard Cable Length | 1 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 |
| Mating Connector | BH6F |
| Compatible Connector Families | Corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular |
| Mating Capability | Wet-Mateable |
| Custom Cable Length | Available Upon Request |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Note: Specifications apply to the standard connector configuration. Cable construction, electrical ratings, underwater operating depth, and special termination requirements should be confirmed against the approved product datasheet.
IL6M Six-Pin Wiring Information
The HYSF Standard Circular 6-pin connector series uses the following standard cable color arrangement:
| Pin Number | Standard Wire Color |
|---|
| Pin 1 | Red |
| Pin 2 | Black |
| Pin 3 | Yellow |
| Pin 4 | Blue |
| Pin 5 | Green |
| Pin 6 | Brown |
This wiring sequence corresponds to the standard HYSF 6-pin Standard Circular cable configuration.The actual wiring identification should be verified against the supplied connector’s pin-number diagram before installation.Customized cable constructions or customer-specific wiring arrangements may use different wire colors.For applications requiring precise circuit assignments, the pin-to-wire mapping should be confirmed before production.
IL6M Compatible Connectors and Accessories
The IL6M is designed for use with corresponding female underwater connector interfaces.
BH6F – 6-Pin Female Bulkhead Underwater Connector
The
BH6F is the corresponding female bulkhead connector for the IL6M.It features six female electrical contacts and is designed for installation through an underwater equipment enclosure.The BH6F is normally supplied with approximately 0.3 meters of internal wire leads.The standard 6-pin bulkhead configuration uses a
5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread.When the IL6M and BH6F are correctly mated, they form an underwater electrical connection between the external cable and the equipment’s internal electrical system.
Recommended connection:IL6M Male Inline Connector + BH6F Female Bulkhead ConnectorThis configuration is suitable for marine sensors, underwater electronic systems, and subsea power or control circuits.
DC6M – 6-Pin Male Protective Dummy Plug
The
DC6M is the corresponding male protective dummy plug for the BH6F female bulkhead interface.When the IL6M cable connector is disconnected from the BH6F, the DC6M can be fitted to protect the exposed female mating interface.The dummy plug helps protect the connector face during equipment maintenance, storage, and appropriate non-operational conditions.
Protective configuration:BH6F Female Bulkhead Connector + DC6M Male Dummy PlugThe DC6M is a non-electrical protective accessory and does not provide a functional electrical connection.
IL6M vs. IL6F
The IL6M and IL6F are opposite-gender inline cable connectors.
| Model | Connector Gender | Corresponding Bulkhead |
|---|
| IL6M | Male | BH6F |
| IL6F | Female | BH6M |
Customers should confirm the required connector gender before ordering.
Why Choose a Standard Circular 6-Pin Underwater Connector?
A six-contact underwater connector offers a practical combination of circuit capacity, robust mechanical construction, and flexibility for marine equipment integration.
Multiple Electrical Circuits
The six-contact arrangement supports multiple electrical connections within a single underwater connector interface.
Reliable Subsea Connection
The connector is designed for operation in demanding underwater environments when correctly mated and installed.
Compatibility With Existing Systems
Compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular interfaces can simplify replacement and system integration.
Flexible Cable Configurations
The standard 1-meter cable length is suitable for many applications, while customized lengths are available for specific projects.
Suitable for Different Marine Applications
The IL6M can be integrated into ROVs, AUVs, marine sensors, underwater cameras, monitoring instruments, and offshore equipment.
IL6M Installation and Maintenance Recommendations
Proper handling and installation help maintain reliable electrical performance.
Step 1: Confirm Connector Compatibility
Before installation, verify that the mating receptacle is a compatible Standard Circular 6-pin female connector.Check the model number, contact configuration, and interface dimensions.
Step 2: Inspect the Mating Surfaces
Inspect both connector faces for dirt, sediment, or visible mechanical damage.Clean the interfaces according to the manufacturer’s approved maintenance procedure.
Step 3: Verify the Wiring
Confirm the pin numbering and cable conductor identification before connecting the cable to the external equipment.Do not rely solely on conductor colors when the cable uses a customized wiring configuration.
Step 4: Mate the Connectors Correctly
Align the IL6M with the compatible female receptacle and complete the mating process according to the approved procedure.Use the appropriate locking arrangement where required.Avoid excessive force or incorrect alignment.
Step 5: Provide Cable Strain Relief
Route the underwater cable carefully.Avoid sharp bending, excessive pulling, or unsupported loads near the molded connector body.
Step 6: Perform Electrical Testing
Depending on the application, recommended checks may include:
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance testing
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Functional equipment testing
For critical subsea applications, the complete connector and cable assembly should be qualified for the intended operating conditions before deployment.
Typical Applications of IL6M Underwater Connectors
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
The IL6M can connect underwater sensors, camera systems, lighting equipment, and control modules to compatible ROV bulkhead connectors.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
AUVs require durable cable-mounted connectors for connecting external instruments to internal electronics.The IL6M provides a six-contact interface suitable for appropriate AUV electrical circuits.
Oceanographic Monitoring Instruments
Marine research equipment often requires reliable underwater connections for power supply and measurement signals.The IL6M can be used with suitable underwater measurement instruments and monitoring systems.
Underwater Cameras and Lighting
Subsea imaging systems may require multiple conductors for power and control connections.The IL6M can provide a compact underwater cable interface within its specified electrical ratings.
Offshore Monitoring Systems
Offshore equipment may be exposed to long-term seawater immersion and demanding mechanical conditions.The IL6M is suitable for appropriate electrical connection applications in offshore monitoring and inspection equipment.
Marine Research Equipment
Research institutions and equipment manufacturers can use the IL6M in underwater prototypes, scientific instruments, and experimental systems.
HYSF SUBSEA Manufacturing and Quality Control
HYSF SUBSEA manufactures underwater electrical connectors, cable assemblies, fiber optic connectors, and customized subsea connection solutions.Our Standard Circular product range is designed for reliable electrical performance in demanding marine applications.Depending on product specifications and project requirements, manufacturing inspections and qualification 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 IL6M connector is supplied with a
12-month warranty.HYSF SUBSEA also supports customized cable lengths, conductor configurations, wiring arrangements, and project-specific underwater connector assemblies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IL6M underwater connector?
The IL6M is a 6-pin male inline underwater electrical connector from the HYSF Standard Circular Series. It is designed for connecting subsea equipment through an integrated underwater cable.
Which connector mates with IL6M?
The corresponding HYSF mating connector is
BH6F, the 6-pin female bulkhead underwater connector.
Is IL6M compatible with SubConn?
Yes. The IL6M is designed to be compatible with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular 6-pin female connector interfaces. Exact part-number compatibility should be verified.
What is the standard cable length?
The IL6M is normally supplied with approximately
1 meter of underwater cable.
Can the cable length be customized?
Yes. Different cable lengths and termination arrangements can be discussed according to project requirements.
What is the maximum operating depth?
The standard connector series supports operating depths of up to
6000 meters, subject to correct mating and qualification of the complete assembly.
What is the rated voltage?
The standard IL6M belongs to a connector series rated at
550 V AC/DC.
What is the rated current?
The standard connector is rated at
10 A per contact, subject to the complete cable assembly design and operating conditions.
Is IL6M a wet-mateable connector?
Yes. The IL6M belongs to the HYSF Standard Circular wet-mateable connector family.Electrical power should be disconnected before mating or demating unless energized operation has been specifically qualified.
What is the difference between IL6M and MCIL6M?
The IL6M belongs to the
Standard Circular Series, while the MCIL6M belongs to the
Micro Circular Series.They use different mechanical interfaces and are not interchangeable.
Which dummy plug is used with the BH6F?
The corresponding protective dummy plug is
DC6M, which is designed for the BH6F female mating interface.
Does IL6M have a bulkhead mounting thread?
No. IL6M is a cable-mounted inline connector rather than a panel-mounted bulkhead.The corresponding BH6F bulkhead uses a standard
5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread.
Conclusion
The
HYSF SUBSEA IL6M 6-Pin Male Inline Underwater Connector provides a reliable cable-mounted electrical interface for underwater equipment operating in demanding marine environments.Featuring six male electrical contacts, a durable molded body, standard 1-meter underwater cable, and deep-sea pressure capability, the IL6M is suitable for ROVs, AUVs, underwater sensors, oceanographic instruments, and offshore monitoring applications.Its compatibility with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular interfaces also makes it a practical solution for compatible equipment replacement and integration.For a complete underwater electrical connection, pair the IL6M with the
BH6F 6-pin female bulkhead connector.HYSF SUBSEA supports customized underwater cable lengths and connector configurations to meet specific marine engineering requirements.
