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Use of CTD-Divers at Varying Elevation
CTD-Divers can be used at any elevation ranging from 300 meters below sea level to 5,000 meters
above sea level. Appendix I contains further information on the use of CTD-Divers at varying elevation.
Use in Seawater
The CTD-Diver is an excellent choice for use in semi-saline water/seawater. The CTD-Diver has a
ceramic casing that does not corrode and is inert to most substances.
Biofouling
Biofouling is the undesirable accumulation of microorganisms, plants, algae, or animals on wetted
structures. This is especially prominent in surface water monitoring in warm environments. Biofouling
causes an algal growth on the electrodes of the CTD-Diver. This may affect the conductivity readings
and increases the need for maintenance. Removing the biological materials from the electrodes can
be damaging over a prolonged period and increase time spent in the field.
The Diver Copper Shield (part no AS350) protects the CTD-Diver from biofouling and reduces
maintenance cost. There are many methods that can be used to prevent and remove the
bioaccumulations. However, these methods can be expensive and detrimental to the environment.
The Diver Copper Shield is a copper coil shield specifically designed to significantly reduce the growth
of algae on the electrodes. Thus, reducing the need for maintenance and reducing the time spent on
site.
CTD-Diver Maintenance
The CTD-Diver casing can be cleaned with a soft cloth. Calcium and other deposits can be removed by
soaking the CTD-Diver in commercially available acidic cleaner (such as cleaning vinegar) and/or
sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda).
Notes:
•
Only use diluted acidic solutions if the CTD-Diver has severe build-up of, for example, lime
scale and other cleansers are not effective.
•
Never use any hard brushes, abrasives or sharp objects for cleaning the CTD-Diver and always
rinse it properly with clean water after cleaning, particularly near the flow-through openings.
Do not use any powerful jets. This could damage the pressure sensor.
User Conductivity Calibration
3.9.1
Introduction
The conductivity sensor is, in contrast to the pressure and temperature sensor, sensitive to pollution
and fouling. Therefore, it is recommended to check the sensor regularly. A simple verification consists
of two steps. First, take the CTD-Diver out of the well and shake it dry. Then take an actual reading, the
reading should be 0 mS/cm. The reading may be slightly higher if the conductivity sensor is not
completely dry. Second, immerse the CTD-Diver in a conductivity calibration solution. Ensure, that
there are no air bubbles trapped inside the conductivity measurement cell. Take another actual
reading and compare with the value of the calibration solution.
Summary of Contents for CTD-Diver DI28 Series
Page 1: ...CTD Diver DI28x Series...
