Macro Sensors custom designs High-Pressure and Seawater Resistant LVDT Position Sensors for incorporation into sub-sea measurement systems used to monitor structural movement for long-term Finite Element Analysis of offshore platforms, pipelines, derricks, moorings and other critical high-stress members on offshore oil platforms. The High-Pressure and Seawater Resistant LVDT Position Sensors can also be used to measure the position of the valves, called chokes, on sub-sea oil well control towers (called Christmas trees), located at the wellhead, as well as controlling or measuring position of robotic arms and actuators.
As seawater applications often require a design service life of as much as 20 years while being exposed to seawater pressures up to 7500 psi, Macro Sensors High-Pressure and Seawater Resistant LVDT Position Sensors are designed from 316SS and Inconel 625 for pressure and corrosion resistance. These materials enhance the already high reliability of the LVDT assembly, ensuring it will continue to operate for minimum life requirements, even if the device is fully exposed to seawater.
Macro Sensors High-Pressure and Seawater Resistant LVDT Position Sensors also resolve the problem of getting a signal back to the surface for monitoring, recording and/or controlling some physical action taking place on the surface or sea water, even in great water depths. To minimise the number of pressure-sealed connections and I/Os, a 4-20mA two-wire, loop-powered I/O can be utilised, which is then, converted to a RS485 signal for transmission to the surface. Typically, a digital converter is contained in a high-pressure sealed bottle located nearby. A 4-20mA I/O also minimises any noise over long transmission lines. Offsets can be easily made in the data acquisition system on the platform above.
A paramount requirement of many sub-sea applications is excellent repeatability and resolution. Macro Sensors High-Pressure and Seawater Resistant LVDT Position Sensors offer extraordinary repeatability and resolution, regardless of offsets due to pressure and/or temperature. Another key element of the LVDT design is zero leakage pressure sealing, often verified by helium mass spectrometer leak testing.