APPENDIX XVI

Comparison of On-Bottom Times for Different Deep Diving Submersibles

ALVIN 1500 dive average 1985-1995 4 hr 47 min
  dives >1500 m, >2 hr
NAUTILE 200 dive average 1994 4 hr 8 min
CYANA 200 dive average 1994 5 hr
SHINKAI-2000 at 2000m 1994 4 hr
SHINKAI-6500 at 6000m 1994 4 hr
  at 6500m 1994 3 hr 30 min
  at 3000m 1994 5 hr

Comparison of Battery Characteristics & Cost Factors for Deep-Diving Submersibles

SPEC ALVIN NAUTILE SHINKAI 6500
Type Pb acid Pb acid AgZn
Capacity 37.4 kwh 38.4 kwh 86.4 kwh
  (80%) (80%) (80%?)
Cost/set $7,800 $42,000 $2,630,000
Dives/set 200 200 75
$/dive $39 $210 $35,000
$/kwh $208 $1,141 $30,440
Maint. Int. 60 dives 50 dives 30 dives

Variables Affecting Alvin Power and Bottom-Time

Long-Term Variables

  1. Power Characteristics of Battery Type
  2. Charging Equipment and Procedures
  3. Changing Configuration and Number of Power Consumptive Operational Equipment and Science Equipment

Short-Term Variables

  1. Science Mission Objectives
  2. Lead-Observer Experience and Organization of Science Tasks
  3. Piloting Style (e.g. throttle usage, trim control, mission planning, manipulator skill, fatigue, attitude)
  4. Dive Depth
  5. Type of Terrain
  6. Lights (observation and video photography)
  7. Sampling/Hydraulics Demand
  8. Battery Condition
  9. Service - Maintenance Procedures

This appendix contains two graphs depicting ALVIN bottom times. Copies of these graphs are available from the UNOLS Office.

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