While developing the EM-2, an underwater electromagnetic transmitter, underwater communications solution provider CSignum sought a reliable potting compound, with the help of Intertronics.
The device transmits data from beneath the water’s surface using electromagnetic (EM) fields. In a new case study, adhesives and encapsulants expert Intertronics explains how its IRS 3071 polyurethane encapsulation helped CSignum to conquer structural challenges and make the EM-2 market ready, providing expertise and guidance across design and production.
CSignum packaged their initial product in a sealed pressure vessel, the industry standard for subsea electronics. The EM-2’s new design, incorporating a three-axis antenna and transmission loop, is structurally unsuitable for this approach. Rather than a costly rethink, a decision was made to try a polymer encapsulation.
The manufacturer undertook a search for a partner experienced in potting compounds, leading it to Intertronics. The collaboration’s first efforts met a challenge when air pockets formed in the potted device, creating process-orientated design issues.
“As soon as I had an issue, I spoke with Intertronics to come up with a solution,” explained Kyle Watson, mechanical engineer at CSignum. “Its expertise saved us money and engineering time, and enabled the EM-2 to become a market-ready, certified product.”
The successful partnership between the two companies continues; Intertronics supplies materials and answers questions on equipment for CSignum to take agency over scaling up production and automating its manufacturing process. The EM-2 is commercially available, providing an environmentally safe alternative to cabled or acoustic transmission methods.
“We aim to go beyond the basic supplier relationship: the automated mixing and dispensing product that we’ve suggested to CSignum helps it prepare for its next phase of growth,” said Ian Mann, sales specialist at Intertronics. “Our partners trust us to have an eye on the future, just like they do.”
The EM-2 uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields to transmit data from underwater sensors to a receiver on the surface. A completely wireless device, the communication system can transfer sensor readings through water, ice, soil, or concrete up to 200 m, with longer reach available with the addition of boosters.
To understand how Intertronics’ solution solved CSignum’s underwater challenges, read the full case study here: https://www.intertronics.co.uk/CSignum-case-study
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