Acoustic tests in simulated ocean conditions

A unique a range of measurement services

NPL provides a unique a range of measurement services at simulated ocean conditions using the NPL Acoustics Pressure Vessel (APV) to meet the individual measurement needs of the customer. The full range of operating conditions of the APV are: temperature range from 2 °C to 35 °C and at simulated ocean depths of up to 687 m (6.8 MPa or 1000 psi).

Services for test and calibration at simulated ocean conditions using the APV:

• Free-field testing of underwater acoustic transducers and hydrophones over the frequency range from a few kHz to 1 MHz.
• Free-field testing of underwater acoustic transducers and sonars including transmit and receive sensitivity, electrical impedance, directional response, etc. The operating frequency range of the test chamber is from a few kHz to 1 MHz.

Testing of the acoustic properties of materials

• Evaluation of the acoustic properties of panel materials including echo reduction, transmission loss, and sound speed.
• At simulated ocean conditions, the operating frequency range is from approximately 1 kHz to 100 kHz for a maximum panel size of 0.8 m wide by 0.9 m high.

Our experienced team of scientific staff offer a flexible cost-effective approach to test work with a choice of service arrangements:

• Fixed price - calibration and tests undertaken by NPL staff on customer devices to a schedule agreed with the customer, with results presented in a report.
• Day rates - calibration and tests undertaken by NPL staff in collaboration with customer staff on customer devices to a schedule agreed.
• Facility hire rates - facilities available for hire, including NPL trained staff.

Don’t see what you are looking for? Our diverse skill set enables us to provide bespoke solutions. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

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