Acoustic Optic Test Tank

General tank information

Test Tank Hours: 7am - 4:30pm

This state-of-the-art underwater optic and acoustic test tank is designed to be a resource for local academic, government and industrial researchers and product developers.

The 90,000-gallon tank is designed for development and testing of underwater measurement concepts and devices. The tank is built half below floor level and half above. It is fully supported on vibration isolators, and noise level measurements indicate that, acoustically, the tank is at least two times quieter than sea state.

Six 3 x 4-foot optical ports, each consisting of a good quality, low-iron glass, are built around the tank walls several feet above the floor. The instrumentation suite, which is under computer control, includes a variety of acoustic and laser-signal sources and power amplifiers. The tank holds either fresh or salt water, which have very different optical properties.

The filter system consists of a sand filter, bag filters, and UV sterilizer, which provides excellent water quality without the use of biocides.

Application examples

• Optical experimentation such as the study of the nonlinear effects of high-power lasers in the water medium
• Laser testing for underwater and through-the-surface communication
• Testing underwater vehicles

Dimensions

21’L 30’W 20’D

Tank size and amenities

• Fresh or sea water can be changed at additional cost
• Optional Recirculating seawater system (“Life support”) for experiments involving live animals (see SMAST WEST Seawater Lab). The temperature in the test tank is a function of ambient air temp and time of year. For more information, please contact Forrest Kennedy (wkennedy1@umassd.edu).
• Dual overhead two ton (each) lifts, can be used simultaneously or individually
• Easy access through 12’x9’ overhead door
• 2 large workbenches
• Wifi access
• Temporary workstation with computer available upon request

Rates

Water Change Fee - $4,000
(Cost to switch the tank from saltwater to freshwater or vice-versa)

Forms, Availability and Contact Information

Test Tank Usage Request Form

Test Tank Schedule