Help with designing thruster for rov.

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    Designing Thruster
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The discussion focuses on designing a thruster for a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) intended for depths of around 100 meters. Key propulsion methods considered include magnetic coupling and hydraulic systems, with a strong emphasis on avoiding O-rings and seals due to cost concerns. Suggestions include flooding the motor with mineral oil to prevent water intrusion, which could be simpler than using magnetic coupling. Some participants advocate for the use of O-rings, highlighting their effectiveness and affordability for pressure applications. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of reliable sealing methods in ROV design to ensure functionality at significant depths.
eliotegli77
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Hi there,
I plan to build a ROV, and am currently looking at different methods of propulsion. I do not wish to use `o` rings or seals and have considered magnetic coupling for the propellor to the electric motor, or even hydraulics. Cost is an issue. Would appreciate any advice on building a ROV. Plan to build a ROV to use in depths of around 100m. Thanks.
 
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A magnetic coupling sounds like the best way to avoid orings but it should not be a separate magnetic coupling than the one that already exist between the motor and its' rotor. Have you ever seen how an small aquarium water pump works?
 
thanks for reply, no have not seen how one works. Was thinking that the magnetic coupling may be the best option.
 
This came up a long time ago, with quite a long series of responses. One suggestion was to not bother sealing the motor and just flood it with mineral oil to keep water out. I can't remember the exact details, but a forum search should bring it up for you.
 
Thanks danger, will do a search and see what comes up. Have heard of that before, sounds like a good option perhaps easier than the magnetic coupling.
 
I guess I don't understand the aversion to using o-rings. They are easy and cheap. They will handle pretty much any pressure gradient you throw at them and have a wide variety of materials to suit any application.
 
And there's plenty of bellows/labyrinth glands which will do the job wonderfully too...
 
A labby is probably not the best for this application. They have to be constantly rotating in order to seal. If I am not correct, there are going to be times where these thrusters would not be moving. Plus to get a complete seal it would have to have a buffer supply of air from somewhere.
 
please i want to hlep in designing thruster for ROV
 
  • #10
Hi

Use lip seals and fill the whole thing with oil.
Silicone oil is best, but almost any thin floating oil can be used.
+0,3- +0,5 bar compensation on the oil is recommended.
Works fine, and no limits regarding ocean depth.
 

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