Contura Water Resistant 12V DC Panel - Bilge Pump Control - Contura Water Resistant 12V DC Panel - Bilge Pump Control

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Blue Sea Systems

8263-BSS

Contura watertight 12 V DC panel - Bilge pump control

The Blue Sea Contura 8263-BSS is a compact, pre-wired control panel for a single bilge pump, compatible with 12V or 24V DC systems. It features IP66 protection on the front face, making it suitable for exposed marine environments.

This model includes a Contura switch (ON)-OFF-AUTO with LED and a fuse holder (15A AGC included, 20A max), positioning it as the single-pump solution in the Contura range. It comes with a mounting gasket.

Retail priceBenefit from the professional rate

62,45€

62,45€ ~~90,17€~~

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In stock

Free pickup point shipping over €150 in France
Pickup at Skysat possible

Custom installation

Trust Skysat to install the equipment on board

Request a quote

Installers near you

thanks to our network of approved installers

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Support service

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Technical specifications

Positions	1.0
Nominal voltage	12V / 24V
Max Amperage	20.0
Included Breakers	0.0
Rétroéclairé	Oui
Included Labels	AUTO / OFF / MANUAL
Mounting type	Flush-mounted
Panel Material	5052-H32 aluminium alloy
Dimensions (W x H x D)	57.15 x 95.25 x 76.20 mm
Couleur de l'actionneur	Gray
Style d'actionneur	Tilt
Alarm output	false
Amperage	15
Amperage 24v Dc	15
Connector type	Fork terminals
Compatible CZone	false
Depth Behind Panel Mm	69.90
Support mise à jour firmware	false
Fuse Dimensions Imperial	1-1/4 x 1/4
Fuse Holder Rating	20
Fuse included	Yes
Fuse type	AGC (fast action) and MDL (slow action) in glass
Housing material	Aluminum alloy
Installation type	Flush-mounted
IP rating	IP66
Voyant lumineux	true
Durée de vie des LED	100000
Compatible MasterBus	false
Operating voltage range	12 - 24 V
Nombre de prises	0
Overall Dimensions Imperial	2-1/4 x 3-3/4
Overall Dimensions Mm	57.20 x 95.30
Product use	Circuit monitoring and protection for bilge pump
Type de produit	Bilge pump control panel
Product type	Control panel
Fonction de l'interrupteur	Momentary ON / OFF / ON
Water Resistance Description	Resistant to salt spray, rain, hose-downs and momentary immersion.

Detailed description

Designed for efficient and safe management of bilge pumps, the Blue Sea Contura 8263-BSS waterproof control panel is a solution dedicated to 12V or 24V DC systems. This panel integrates consolidated control and circuit protection for a single bilge pump, positioning it as a compact choice within the Contura range, which also offers variants for multiple pumps such as models 8664, 8665, and 8666.

Design and Technical Specifications

The 8263-BSS panel features a robust construction in 0.100” 5052-H32 aluminum alloy with a textured polyurethane finish in graphite color. Its front face is rated IP66 when mounted with the included gasket, ensuring protection against powerful water jets. It is designed to withstand common marine exposures such as salt spray, rain, hose-downs, and momentary immersion. The integrated Contura (ON)-OFF-ON switch includes an LED indicating the pump’s operating state, with an estimated lifespan of 100,000 hours.

Circuit Protection and Flexibility

Circuit protection is provided by a fuse holder accepting 1-1/4” x 1/4” AGC (fast) and MDL (slow) glass fuses. A 15-amp AGC fuse is preinstalled, and the fuse holder supports up to a maximum of 20 amps. The switch and fuse holder are rated for a maximum current of 20 amps in 12V systems and 15 amps in 24V systems, with a cumulative panel capacity of 45 amps. Its compact dimensions of 57.15 x 95.25 x 76.2 mm (W x H x D) facilitate integration into various marine dashboards.

Simplified Installation

The panel is pre-wired to simplify installation, reducing time and mounting complexity. The fuse holder is accessible from the front for easy replacement. A gasket is provided to ensure a watertight seal to the mounting surface, making this panel suitable for applications on open decks or flybridges where water exposure is frequent. It complies with ABYC E-9 and USCG 33 CFR Part 183, Subpart I standards for marine electrical systems.

Documentation

Type	Nom
	EN - Instructions - Contura Water Resistant 12V DC Panel - Bilge Pump Control
	EN - Sell Sheet - Contura Water Resistant 12V DC Panel - Bilge Pump Control

Expert opinion

Pol CONIN

Digital Manager

« Blue Sea Contura 8263-BSS Panel: Simple and Reliable Bilge Control »

The Blue Sea Contura 8263-BSS control panel is a reliable, dedicated solution for managing a single bilge pump. Its design, focused on sealing with an IP66 front face when mounted with the supplied gasket, makes it particularly suitable for applications where the panel is exposed to the elements, such as on a flybridge or in an open cockpit. It is a fundamental component for safety aboard small and medium-sized vessels, providing essential manual and automatic control.

The main advantage of this model lies in its simplicity of integration. Being pre-wired, it minimizes wiring errors and speeds up the installation process, a crucial point for installers. Front access to the fuse holder is also a practical benefit for maintenance. It is important to note that, although robust, the fuse rating must always match the specifications of the bilge pump used, with a maximum of 20A for this panel.

Unlike more complex distribution panels or integrations via MFD, the 8263-BSS offers a single, clear function, reducing system complexity for basic needs. For vessels equipped with multiple bilge pumps requiring centralized control, other models in the Contura range, such as the 8664, 8665, or 8666, would be more appropriate, offering 2, 3, or 4 switches respectively.

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Contura watertight 12 V DC panel - Bilge pump control

62,45€

62,45€ ~~90,17€~~

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the main function of this Blue Sea Contura 8263-BSS control panel?

This control panel is designed to provide consolidated management and circuit protection for a single bilge pump. It allows for efficient and secure control of the pump.

Is this control panel water-resistant?

Yes, the front panel is rated IP66 when mounted with the included gasket. This means it is protected against powerful water jets and can withstand common marine exposures such as salt spray, rain, hose-downs, and brief immersions.

What materials are used to manufacture this panel?

The panel is built from 5052-H32 aluminum alloy, 0.100 inches thick. Its finish is a two-part textured polyurethane in graphite color.

What is the maximum operating voltage supported by the panel?

This panel is designed to operate with 12V or 24V DC systems.

What type of switch is integrated into the panel and what are its specifications?

The panel integrates a Contura switch of type (ON)-OFF-ON. It features an LED indicating the circuit's operational state, with an estimated lifespan of 100,000 hours (at half-life).

Which types of fuses are compatible with the fuse holder of this panel?

The fuse holder accepts commonly available 1-1/4” x 1/4” glass fuses, whether they are AGC (fast-acting) or MDL (slow-blow) types.

Is a fuse supplied with the panel? If so, what is its amp rating?

Yes, a 15 amp AGC (fast-acting) fuse is pre-installed in the panel’s fuse holder.

What is the maximum current that the panel can handle for a 12V and 24V system?

The switch and fuse holder are designed for a maximum current of 20 amperes for a 12V system and 15 amperes for a 24V system.

Is this panel designed to control one or more bilge pumps?

The 8263-BSS panel is specifically designed for monitoring and protecting the circuit of a single bilge pump.

Is the panel protected against ignition in potentially explosive environments?

No, this panel is not spark-proof. It must not be installed in explosive environments, such as gasoline engine compartments or battery compartments, as the switches are not spark-resistant.

What precautions should I take before starting the panel installation?

Before starting the installation, it is imperative to disconnect the main positive cable from all batteries to eliminate any risk of short circuit. You must also unplug the AC power cord from the dock to prevent any risk of electrocution.

Are there any restrictions regarding the mounting location for this panel?

Yes, it is important to choose a mounting location that is not an area where flammable vapors (from propane, gasoline, or lead-acid batteries) could accumulate. As the panel is not ignition-protected, it could ignite these vapors.

How to ensure the panel remains watertight once installed?

A sealing gasket is included with the panel. It must be placed between the panel and the mounting surface. Ensure all surfaces are clean and free of debris, then tighten the panel mounting screws to guarantee a proper seal.

What is the recommended wire size for the main positive power feed from the panel?

The positive power feed (red) must be sized for a 3% voltage drop at the panel’s rated capacity or the maximum amperage to be carried, whichever is lower. It is recommended to size this wire for the panel’s full capacity, which will typically require at least a 10 AWG wire for a typical 10-foot run between the panel and batteries in a 12V system.

How can I verify the installation after mounting the panel?

After mounting the panel, reconnect the main positive cable to the battery terminals and turn on the main switch to power the panel. Turn on the bilge pump and check the voltage at the panel. Compare this voltage to the battery terminal voltage to ensure the voltage drop is less than 3%.

Is the panel compatible with different types of bilge pumps?

Yes, the panel is compatible with most bilge pumps, provided their current draw does not exceed the panel's maximum ratings: 20 amps for a 12V system or 15 amps for a 24V system. It is critical to use the fuse recommended by the bilge pump manufacturer, without exceeding 20 amps maximum.