What Are SubConn-Compatible Connectors?

SubConn (a brand of MacArtney Group) established the industry benchmark for micro circular wet-mateable underwater connectors. Their MCBH (Micro Circular Bulkhead), MCIL (Micro Circular In-Line), and MCDC (Micro Circular Dummy Cap) series are used throughout the subsea industry -- from scientific ROVs to offshore oil & gas instrumentation. SubConn-compatible connectors are third-party alternatives manufactured to the identical dimensional envelope, contact arrangement, and performance specification as the original SubConn catalog, allowing direct plug-and-play interchangeability without system redesign.

MCBH Series -- Bulkhead Connectors (2 to 19 Contacts)

The MCBH series mounts through a panel or housing bulkhead and provides a permanent wet-face receptacle. Key variants include:

• MCBH2M / MCBH2F -- 2-contact male/female bulkhead
• MCBH3M / MCBH3F -- 3-contact male/female bulkhead
• MCBH4M / MCBH4F -- 4-contact male/female bulkhead
• MCBH5M / MCBH5F -- 5-contact, available in stainless steel (MCBH5M-SS)
• MCBH6M to MCBH19M/F -- 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 19 contacts

All MCBH variants from RV POWER GROUP share the same thread form, O-ring groove dimensions, and face geometry as SubConn MCBH series, ensuring mating compatibility with existing in-line connectors in the field.

MCIL Series -- In-Line Connectors (2 to 19 Contacts)

The MCIL (Micro Circular In-Line) series is the cable-end connector that mates with MCBH bulkheads. It includes a locking ring and polyurethane overmold for strain relief and waterproofing at the cable entry. Available from 2 to 19 contacts (MCIL2M through MCIL19F), with options for mixed signal/power configurations.

MCDC Series -- Dummy Caps and Blanking Plugs

When a bulkhead is unmated, a dummy cap (MCDC) protects the wet face from contamination, biofouling, and mechanical damage. RV POWER GROUP MCDC series covers 6, 8, and 12-pin configurations and mate directly onto MCBH bulkheads.

Dimensional and Electrical Compatibility

True drop-in compatibility requires more than similar appearance. RV POWER GROUP connectors are manufactured to the following specifications confirmed against SubConn datasheets:

• Thread form: Same pitch and diameter as SubConn MCBH/MCIL mating threads
• Contact pitch: Identical circular pitch for 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 19-pin layouts
• O-ring groove: Same AS568 O-ring cross-section and groove depth for housing seals
• Shell OD/ID: Matching outside diameter for panel cutout and retaining hardware
• Voltage rating: 600 V AC/DC per contact
• Current rating: Up to 10 A per contact (configuration dependent)
• Insulation resistance: >1,000 MOhm at 500 VDC

Depth and Pressure Performance

All RV POWER GROUP micro circular connectors are rated to 7,000 m (22,966 ft) depth, corresponding to approximately 700 bar hydrostatic pressure. Every production unit is factory hydrostatic pressure-tested to 600 psig (41 bar) -- 10x the ambient pressure at 400 m depth -- and supplied with a signed test certificate. This exceeds the operating depth of most work-class ROV systems.

Material Selection for Cathodic Compatibility

The standard shell material is anodized 6061 aluminium alloy (Type III hard-anodize). For applications where galvanic corrosion is a concern -- such as titanium-framed ROVs or stainless-steel housings -- titanium Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) shells are available as an upgrade. Contact materials are gold-plated copper alloy. Insulator material is PEEK (polyether ether ketone), providing excellent chemical resistance and dimensional stability across the full operating temperature range (-20 degC to +85 degC).

How to Verify Compatibility Before Ordering

To confirm a drop-in fit, provide RV POWER GROUP with the following:

1. The exact SubConn part number (e.g., MCBH8M-SS) or connector model designation
2. The number of contacts and gender of the existing bulkhead
3. Operating depth and any special material requirements
4. If available: a sample of the existing connector for dimensional verification

RV POWER GROUP engineers will confirm interchangeability and supply technical drawings showing dimensional overlap. Contact [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can RV POWER GROUP connectors mate with genuine SubConn connectors in the field?

Yes. The mating faces, thread forms, and contact patterns are dimensionally identical. An RV POWER GROUP MCIL in-line will mate with a SubConn MCBH bulkhead and vice versa.

Are there any patent restrictions on SubConn-compatible connectors?

The SubConn connector form factor is a well-established industry standard with broad market participation. RV POWER GROUP manufactures to the same public dimensional standards used across the subsea industry.

What is the lead time for MCBH/MCIL connectors?

Standard configurations (2-19 contacts, aluminium shell) ship in 5-7 business days. Titanium shell variants: 2-4 weeks. Cable assemblies with custom lengths: 2-3 weeks.

Do you supply custom cable assemblies?

Yes. We supply fully assembled and terminated cables using subsea-rated polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), or FRNC cables up to 25 mm OD.