Description: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
Current Water State:
Sea Water
Fresh Water
Tank Size and Amenities
Tank diagrams courtesy of Corey Bachand, BTech Acoustics, LLC.
Fresh or sea water can be changed at additional cost
Optional Recirculating seawater system (“Life support”) for experiments involving live animals
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
Without life support
With life support
Internal Rates
$510 (Full Day) $255 (Half)
$689 (Full Day) $344 (Half)
External Rates
$811 (Full Day) $406 (Half)
$1200 (Full Day) $600 (Half)
Water Change Fee - Cost to switch the tank from saltwater to freshwater (vice versa)
For more information please contact:
Eric Lyonnais
Facilities Manager
School for Marine Science and Technology
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
508-910-6304 elyonnais@umassd.edu
Directions
Address:
706 South Rodney French Blvd.
New Bedford, Massachusetts 02744-1221 Phone: 508-999-8193 FAX: 508-910-6371
Directions: Take I-195 toward New Bedford to Route 18 south. After several sets of lights, Route 18 becomes Water Street, then South Rodney French Boulevard.
Continue on South Rodney French Boulevard. You will pass through a hurricane dike and a beach area. SMAST is located at the point of South Rodney French Boulevard.
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. 
