Coaxial Underwater Mateable Connectors - A New Technology for Seafloor Structure Applications.
Abstract
As part of the Deep Ocean Technology Program, an underwater-mateable coaxial connector for SD list 1 cable has been developed. The CEL-3 series connector includes the following features: oil-filled, pressure compensated, coaxial throughout, full cable breaking strength, both manipulator and diver compatibility, unlimited depth operability, and estimated 10- to 20-year life. Four complete units and several subsystem mockups have been built and thoroughly laboratory-tested. Limited field tests and at-sea demonstrations have also been conducted, culminating in a 2-year, 6,000-foot demonstration of the CEL-3B prototype. After minor modifications and debugging, the prototype CEL-3B met all performance requirements, including impedance matching to within 2%, 6,000-bolt DC operations pressure testing and wet mating to 5,500 psig, mating by submersible, unmating under 10,000 pounds of tension, and sustained submergence without degradation. The variety of designs tested provides a basis for extending the CEL-3 series concept to a wide range of applications - from deep ocean cable repair to modular assembly of advanced ocean cable structures. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA085291
Entities
People
- J. V. Wilson
Organizations
- Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center