Aeroprobe News

NSWC tests underwater marine probe technology

January 10, 2012 - Aeroprobe recently demonstrated its approach to harsh-environment solutions for the US Navy.

Special probes designed for marine environments were shipped to Keyport, Washington, and applied in a flow-characterization barge test by the Naval Surface Warfare Center. A field test of this kind required custom engineering to deal with the corrosive elements of the open sea.

"Underwater is one thing, but going to marine can be a difficult task," said Aeroprobe Vice President of Business Development, Matthew Zeiger. "You have issues with probes being submerged, changing depths, and contamination." To address this, Aeroprobe engineers were tasked to develop a custom solution. "The real leap forward is having the sensors embedded inside the probe."

Before shipment, Aeroprobe provided wind tunnel and water tunnel calibration. Afterwards, Zeiger traveled to Keyport to oversee the NSWC's test of underwater flow with the marine probes. "All personnel involved were exemplary in getting the test run in what is a difficult test environment," he said. "This is not a typical test."

The first part of the test characterized fluid flow in a marine environment. NSWC is currently reviewing the data from this test. The probes are then expected to be deployed for a submarine hull test.

Marine and underwater probes are unique products offered by Aeroprobe Corporation and have several applications, including use in unmanned underwater vehicles, ship design tests, and high-humidity environments.