BH8M 8-Pin Male Bulkhead Underwater Connector – SubConn Compatible
Product Overview
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HYSF SUBSEA BH8M is a high-performance
8-pin male bulkhead underwater connector designed for reliable electrical connections through pressure housings, subsea equipment enclosures, and marine instrument panels.As part of the HYSF Standard Circular Series, the BH8M features eight gold-plated male electrical contacts, a corrosion-resistant
316L stainless steel housing, and a precision-engineered watertight sealing interface.Designed to operate at depths of up to
6,000 meters (60 MPa), the BH8M provides a dependable electrical connection between internal equipment wiring and external underwater cable assemblies.The connector supports a rated voltage of
550V AC/DC and a rated current of
10A per contact, making it suitable for multi-channel power, signal, and control applications.The standard BH8M configuration includes
0.3-meter internal wire leads and a
5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread for installation in compatible equipment housings.The BH8M is designed to mate with the
IL8F 8-pin female inline underwater connector and is compatible with corresponding SubConn and SEACON Standard Circular interfaces.Typical applications include remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), underwater cameras, oceanographic instruments, subsea sensors, offshore monitoring systems, and deep-sea research equipment.
Key Features and Benefits
1. Eight Gold-Plated Male Electrical Contacts
The BH8M incorporates eight precision-manufactured male electrical contacts within a compact circular connector interface.This configuration allows multiple electrical circuits to pass through a single bulkhead installation point.The eight-contact design is suitable for applications requiring:
- Multiple sensor connections
- Underwater signal transmission
- Electrical control circuits
- Low- and moderate-power distribution
- Marine instrumentation
- Multi-core underwater cable assemblies
Gold-plated contacts help maintain reliable electrical conductivity and reduce contact-surface oxidation.The connector’s design provides a practical interface for integrating multiple electrical circuits into underwater equipment.
2. Corrosion-Resistant 316L Stainless Steel Housing
The BH8M features a precision-machined
316L stainless steel housing designed for demanding seawater environments.316L stainless steel offers:
- Good resistance to marine corrosion
- High mechanical strength
- Durability under external hydrostatic pressure
- Dimensional stability for threaded installation
- Suitability for long-term underwater equipment integration
The metal housing provides mechanical support for the electrical contact assembly and allows the connector to be securely installed in suitable pressure housings.For installations involving aluminum or other dissimilar housing materials, galvanic corrosion protection should be considered during system design.
3. Rated for 6,000 Meters Underwater
The BH8M is designed to withstand external hydrostatic pressures of up to
60 MPa, equivalent to approximately
6,000 meters of seawater depth.This pressure capability makes it suitable for a wide range of deep-sea and offshore applications.Potential uses include:
- Deep-water ROVs
- Oceanographic monitoring platforms
- Subsea scientific instruments
- Underwater observation systems
- Offshore inspection equipment
- Deep-sea sensor housings
The pressure rating applies to the connector design. The completed installation must also use the correct housing geometry, sealing components, and assembly procedures.
4. SubConn and SEACON Compatible Interface
The HYSF BH8M is designed for mating compatibility with corresponding Standard Circular underwater connector configurations from SubConn and SEACON.This compatibility makes the BH8M suitable for:
- Replacement of existing underwater bulkhead connectors
- Maintenance of marine equipment
- New underwater enclosure designs
- Subsea cable system upgrades
- OEM underwater instrumentation
- Standardized subsea electrical interfaces
Before replacing an existing connector, the number of contacts, mating gender, connector series, and mounting dimensions should be verified.
5. Wet-Mateable Underwater Connection
The BH8M belongs to the HYSF SUBSEA wet-mateable Standard Circular Series.When paired with the corresponding IL8F female inline connector, the interface is designed to support underwater mating and unmating.This capability is useful for subsea equipment that requires periodic cable disconnection, servicing, or replacement.Electrical power should normally be disconnected before mating or unmating unless the specific connector assembly has been qualified for energized operation.
6. Precision 5/8-18 UNF-2A Mounting Thread
The BH8M features a
5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread designed for installation through compatible underwater equipment panels and pressure housing walls.The standard series mounting specifications include:
- Размер резьбы: 5/8-18 UNF-2A
- Nominal Thread Length: 19 mm
- Mounting Style: Threaded Bulkhead
- Housing Material: Нержавеющая сталь 316L
The threaded design allows secure mechanical installation and supports proper positioning of the connector within an equipment housing.Panel thickness, sealing surface finish, mounting dimensions, and available installation space should be checked against the applicable mechanical drawing.
7. Watertight O-Ring Sealing System
The BH8M uses a bulkhead sealing arrangement designed to prevent seawater ingress through the connector mounting interface.The standard connector construction incorporates a suitable O-ring sealing system.When installed correctly, the O-ring provides a sealing barrier between the connector housing and the equipment panel.Important installation considerations include:
- Correct mounting hole dimensions
- Appropriate O-ring selection and condition
- Clean sealing surfaces
- Proper installation and compression
- Suitable surface finish
- Correct mechanical fastening
The complete enclosure should be pressure-tested where required by the application.
8. Standard 0.3-Meter Internal Wire Leads
The BH8M is normally supplied with approximately
0.3 meters of internal wire leads for connection to electronics inside the equipment housing.This arrangement simplifies integration into underwater pressure vessels, sensor enclosures, and electronic control modules.Available customization options include:
- Longer internal wire leads
- Different conductor specifications
- Custom wiring assignments
- Numbered wire identification
- Application-specific termination arrangements
- Alternative housing materials
- OEM bulkhead assemblies
Custom specifications are subject to technical evaluation and manufacturing confirmation.
BH8M Technical Specifications
| Параметр | Технические характеристики |
|---|
| Brand | HYSF SUBSEA |
| Модель | BH8M |
| Серия продуктов | Standard Circular |
| Тип разъема | Накладная розетка |
| Contact Configuration | 8-Pin Male |
| Количество контактов | 8 |
| Contact Gender | Male |
| Материал корпуса | Нержавеющая сталь 316L |
| Contact Finish | Gold-Plated |
| Mounting Style | Threaded Bulkhead |
| Монтажная резьба | 5/8-18 UNF-2A |
| Nominal Thread Length | 19 mm |
| Rated Voltage | 550V AC/DC |
| Rated Current | 10A per Contact |
| Maximum Operating Depth | 6,000 m |
| Pressure Rating | 60 MPa |
| Mating Capability | Wet-Mateable |
| Standard Internal Wire Length | 0.3 m |
| Custom Wire Lengths | Available |
| Bulkhead Sealing | O-Ring Sealing |
| Mating Inline Connector | IL8F |
| Compatible Dummy Connector | DC8F |
| SubConn Compatibility | Corresponding Standard Circular Interfaces |
| SEACON Compatibility | Corresponding Standard Circular Interfaces |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
Note: Mounting dimensions and sealing arrangements should always be verified using the technical drawing for the selected configuration before machining the equipment housing.
Standard 8-Pin Wiring Reference
The standard HYSF SUBSEA eight-contact wiring color sequence is:
| Pin Number | Wire Color |
|---|
| Pin 1 | Red |
| Pin 2 | Black |
| Pin 3 | Yellow |
| Pin 4 | Blue |
| Pin 5 | Orange |
| Pin 6 | Brown |
| Pin 7 | Purple |
| Pin 8 | Green |
This is the standard 8-pin cable wiring reference for the Standard Circular Series.
Important: Bulkhead connectors may be supplied with numbered or otherwise identified internal wire leads. The actual pin-to-wire assignment must be confirmed against the wiring drawing provided with the connector.
Compatible Mating Connectors and Accessories
IL8F – 8-Pin Female Inline Underwater Connector
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IL8F is the corresponding female inline cable connector for the BH8M.The IL8F features:
- Eight female electrical contacts
- Molded neoprene rubber body
- Standard 1-meter underwater cable
- Wet-mateable connection interface
- 6,000-meter depth rating
- SubConn-compatible Standard Circular configuration
When mated, the BH8M and IL8F create a detachable connection between an equipment housing and an external underwater cable.
DC8F – Female Dummy Connector
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DC8F is a protective dummy connector designed for the BH8M male bulkhead interface.It can be installed when the IL8F cable connector is disconnected.The DC8F helps protect the exposed mating interface from contamination, accidental contact, and mechanical damage.A dummy connector is a protective accessory and does not provide an electrical connection.
BH8F – Female Bulkhead Connector
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BH8F is the female-contact version of the Standard Circular 8-pin bulkhead connector.The corresponding standard mating relationships are:
Both configurations belong to the same Standard Circular connector family.
Типовые применения
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
ROVs commonly require multiple electrical connections through pressure housings.The BH8M can be installed in underwater vehicle electronics enclosures to support appropriate connections involving sensors, cameras, control systems, and auxiliary equipment.Its bulkhead construction allows a detachable cable interface while maintaining the equipment housing’s watertight boundary.
Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs)
The BH8M is suitable for integration into AUV pressure vessels and underwater electronic modules.Its eight contacts allow several electrical circuits to share a single panel-mounted interface.This can help simplify cable management and reduce the number of separate equipment penetrations.
Underwater Camera Systems
Underwater cameras and imaging equipment require dependable electrical interfaces between external cables and sealed camera housings.The BH8M can provide a bulkhead connection for suitable power and signal circuits.Compatibility with specific video or network protocols depends on the complete cable and electrical system design.
Oceanographic Instrumentation
Marine scientific equipment frequently operates in high-pressure seawater environments.The BH8M can be integrated into equipment such as:
- CTD-related instruments
- Underwater temperature sensors
- Marine monitoring platforms
- Oceanographic data loggers
- Underwater acoustic equipment
- Water-quality measurement systems
Offshore Monitoring Equipment
The BH8M also provides an electrical interface for offshore inspection equipment, subsea observation systems, and permanently submerged monitoring devices.
Underwater Research Equipment
Deep-sea research vehicles and laboratory-designed subsea instruments often require customized electrical feedthrough solutions.The BH8M offers a standardized eight-contact connector arrangement suitable for compatible pressure housings and marine electrical systems.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation is essential for maintaining the watertight performance of a bulkhead connector.
Step 1: Confirm the Mounting Dimensions
Verify the 5/8-18 UNF-2A mounting thread and panel cutout dimensions against the BH8M mechanical drawing.Ensure the housing wall thickness is compatible with the selected connector configuration.
Step 2: Inspect the Sealing Components
Check the O-ring and sealing surfaces for scratches, damage, contamination, or deformation.Use only appropriate sealing materials and follow the recommended installation procedures.
Step 3: Prepare the Equipment Housing
Ensure the mounting hole and sealing surface have been correctly machined.Remove machining debris, sharp edges, and contaminants before installation.
Step 4: Install the Bulkhead Connector
Position the BH8M in the housing opening and secure it using the specified fastening arrangement.Avoid excessive tightening or mechanical stress that could damage the connector or sealing system.
Step 5: Connect the Internal Wiring
Connect the internal wire leads according to the approved pin assignment.Verify the wiring configuration before connecting the equipment to electrical power.
Step 6: Inspect the Mating Interface
Before mating the IL8F cable connector, confirm that both connector interfaces are clean and undamaged.
Step 7: Perform Electrical and Sealing Checks
Carry out continuity, insulation, and pressure-integrity checks as required by the equipment design.The complete housing assembly should be validated before deployment.
Quality Control and Testing
HYSF SUBSEA supports underwater connector manufacturing through quality-control procedures that may include:
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- Electrical continuity testing
- Insulation resistance measurement
- Dielectric withstand testing
- Contact inspection
- Dimensional verification
- O-ring and sealing surface inspection
- Mechanical integrity checks
Project-specific testing requirements and documentation can be confirmed during technical review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is BH8M?
BH8M is an eight-contact male bulkhead underwater electrical connector in the HYSF Standard Circular Series.
Q2: Which inline connector mates with BH8M?
The standard mating connector is the
IL8F 8-pin female inline underwater connector.
Q3: Is BH8M compatible with SubConn connectors?
Yes. BH8M is designed for compatibility with corresponding SubConn Standard Circular connector interfaces.
Q4: What is the mounting thread size?
The standard mounting thread is
5/8-18 UNF-2A.
Q5: What material is the connector housing made from?
The standard housing is made from corrosion-resistant
316L stainless steel.
Q6: What is the maximum operating depth?
The standard BH8M is designed for depths of up to
6 000 метров, corresponding to approximately 60 MPa.
Q7: What are the electrical ratings?
The connector is rated for
550V AC/DC and 10A per contact.
Q8: How long are the internal wires?
The standard internal wire length is approximately
0.3 meters. Custom lengths are available.
Q9: Can BH8M be connected underwater?
Yes. BH8M belongs to the wet-mateable Standard Circular Series and can be connected underwater using the correct mating procedures.
Q10: Is an O-ring required for installation?
Yes. The bulkhead sealing arrangement requires the correct O-ring and properly prepared mounting surface.
Q11: Which dummy connector fits BH8M?
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DC8F female dummy connector is the corresponding protective accessory.
Q12: Is BH8M the same as MCBH8M?
No. BH8M belongs to the Standard Circular Series, while MCBH8M belongs to the Micro Circular Series. Their mechanical interfaces and mounting dimensions are different.
Q13: Can the housing material or wire length be customized?
Alternative housing materials, internal wire lengths, and termination arrangements may be available following technical review.
Q14: Can BH8M be installed in an aluminum housing?
Yes, subject to appropriate mechanical and sealing design. Because the standard BH8M housing is stainless steel, galvanic corrosion protection should be evaluated when it is installed in an aluminum enclosure.
Why Choose HYSF SUBSEA?
HYSF SUBSEA specializes in the development and manufacturing of underwater electrical connectors, subsea bulkhead connectors, marine cable assemblies, and customized underwater interconnection solutions.Our manufacturing capabilities include:
- SubConn-compatible underwater connector production
- Precision-machined stainless steel bulkhead housings
- Standard and customized underwater cable assemblies
- Hydrostatic pressure testing
- OEM and ODM engineering services
- Mechanical drawings and 3D model support
- Customized conductor arrangements
- Marine connector accessories
- 12-month product warranty
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BH8M 8-pin male bulkhead underwater connector provides a durable and practical solution for deep-water equipment requiring a reliable, detachable electrical interface through a watertight housing.