- #1
derek-CT
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Hi
I need to build a 12V alternator inside a pressure casing that will be driven by a propellor. This will be mounted on the rear on an oceanographic sensor platform that will be towed behind a ship on a long cable with the ship's forward motion providing the spinning of the prop, for the alternator to charge batteries (very low gassing) and run electronics.
The ship's speed will vary between 2 and 10knots. The ideal current output would be between 6 and 10 Amps. Ideal operating depth would be 1000m to allow "sinking" when the ship slows.
I envisage a small car alternator inside a pressure casing. The problem is the link shaft through the case to connect the alternator to the prop.
I can o-ring seal it, but at depth the pressure on the o-rings will "pinch" the shaft.
There are also magnetic couplings, as a last resort.
My question...
anyone have any experience in running a car alternator submerged in light oil? If I can fill the casing with oil, I won't have to do such radical shaft sealing.
Thanks in advance.
Derek
I need to build a 12V alternator inside a pressure casing that will be driven by a propellor. This will be mounted on the rear on an oceanographic sensor platform that will be towed behind a ship on a long cable with the ship's forward motion providing the spinning of the prop, for the alternator to charge batteries (very low gassing) and run electronics.
The ship's speed will vary between 2 and 10knots. The ideal current output would be between 6 and 10 Amps. Ideal operating depth would be 1000m to allow "sinking" when the ship slows.
I envisage a small car alternator inside a pressure casing. The problem is the link shaft through the case to connect the alternator to the prop.
I can o-ring seal it, but at depth the pressure on the o-rings will "pinch" the shaft.
There are also magnetic couplings, as a last resort.
My question...
anyone have any experience in running a car alternator submerged in light oil? If I can fill the casing with oil, I won't have to do such radical shaft sealing.
Thanks in advance.
Derek