A Thin Film Thermal Sensor for Measuring Ocean Currents.
Abstract
A thin film thermal sensor is being developed to improve U.S. Navy capabilities for measuring ocean current profiles. Using the sensor, current velocity is determined by measuring the resistance changes in each of four platinum films positioned on the surface of the cylindrical sensor substrate. Development of this device into a practical ocean-going tool has involved overcoming substrate fragility, water leakage problems, and biofouling contamination. A high-strength ceramic substrate has been selected to improve ruggedness. New coating systems to prevent water penetration into the sensor are being developed and evaluated. An electrolytic hypochlorite generation technique has been developed to prevent biofouling indefinitely on the sensor surface. Tests have shown the sensor produces repeatable results in the laboratory and agrees well with commercial current meter measurements during ocean testing. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA085286
Entities
People
- A. P. Smith
- B. C. Streets
- T. R. Kretschmer
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center