Marine research is changing our understanding of the world’s largest ecosystem
Much of what we know about the changing climate, shifts in weather patterns, and critical resources trapped far below the surface of the ocean is a result of stalwart marine researchers. These scientists spend months at sea exploring the seabed and gathering data with highly sensitive sonars and other acoustic positioning systems. From energy management to subsea mining, their commitment to groundbreaking research is moving our understanding of the world’s largest ecosystem forward at previously unimagined speeds.
Smaller research vessels can cover more territory at less expense
While governments and industries around the world are investing more heavily in marine research, scientific teams are still operating under strict budgets. To cover more ground at less expense, many private and government enterprises are equipping smaller vessels with echo-sounders and other acoustic positioning systems. More compact vessels are more cost-effective and allow stakeholders to cover more territory in smaller windows of time.
Bulky deployment units reduce speed and fuel efficiency
Under normal circumstances, an echo-sounder is welded to the hull of a ship. However, for small vessels (8-24 m long), having a bulky deployment unit protruding from the hull creates a problematic reduction in maximum cruising speed. For example, an 8 m long aluminum research boat can go at speed of 30 knots/hr. When an echo-sounder is welded to the hull, it changes the hydrodynamics of the hull and increases water resistance. This can reduce the speed to 16 knots/hr or less.
DECK’s GT-Series IDU maximizes speed and protects sensitive equipment
When DECK Marine was approached by a client with this dilemma, we set about engineering a solution that would enable marine researchers to maintain a vessel’s hydrodynamics without endangering delicate acoustic positioning systems. We developed the GT-Series instrument deployment unit specifically to be used on small, high speed research vessels with limited hull space. Its built-in hull gates can be closed, maintaining the hydrodynamic properties of the hull. When the unit is retracted, vessels can operate at close to maximum cruise speeds, and instruments are kept safely in the hull of the ship during transit.
Improve fuel efficiency with a long-lasting GT-Series instrument deployment unit
The GT-series through-hull deployment unit provides small research vessels with all of the functionality of a through hull model and a streamlined, hydrodynamic design that minimizes drag. In addition to increasing maximum speeds, this also optimizes fuel efficiency. The GT-Series was developed with sensitive echo-sounders in mind, and its rigid structure ensures precise subsea positioning for improved surveying. Like other DECK designs, the GT-Series is built to last, and its modular design makes it easy and fast to customize units to the unique specifications of individual vessels.
To equip your small research vessels with a long-lasting, customizable GT-Series Through-Hull Deployment Unit with Gates, contact our customer service specialist today.
