Silva depth transducer fluid

[garvellachs]

I know it's been dealt with before in general, but can anyone advise me about the best fluid to use when mounting particularly a Silver Star Sea Data depth transducer inside the hull. The special kit recommends water and soap. I'm having problems with multiple readings and I'm wondering whether oil would be better. I think other Silva instruments use the same transducer. Any thoughts?

 

[VicS]

I doubt if any one liquid is better than any other but I would not use water in case it froze. (or anything likely to attack the transducer or the grp, obviously) There must not be any bubbles trapped under the transducer or any voids in the grp.

Check that the instrument and transducer are OK by dangling the transducer over the side and checking the indicated reading against the lead.

 

[cliff]

Castor Oil, available from your local pharmacy
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“Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity”
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[EdEssery]

I have the same instrument which I installed 18 months ago. Last season I used Castor Oil. This season I am using CamCare ultrasound gel and I am getting less false readings.

When I first installed the instrument and transducer I had lots of problems with false readings when I was in the wash/disturbed water behind other boats and also in the River Itchen (lots of fresh water). I complained to Silva and they said it was a known problem and that there was an alternative A/D converter (the box you mount near the transducer) which they sent me free of charge - apparently it has different software. With that and Ultrasound Gel, I don't have problems unless I cross close behind a big power vessel.

Ed

 

[garvellachs]

Thanks for the ideas guys. I'll contact Silva Ed and ask if there's an updated box for mine too. Do you put the gel in the pot instead of water - I assume its not too viscous?

Mike

 

[EdEssery]

Correct - squeeze the gel into the bottom of the pot/pipe which is fastened to the inside of the hull and then smear some on face of transducer before inserting in pot. It doesn't slop around like water or castor oil when the boat heels - a lot less messy and also designed for the job you are asking it to do!

It's about the same viscosity as KY Jelly but, as I recall, is blue in colour.

Ed