Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Submarines => Topic started by: polycell on June 09, 2011, 09:45:42 am

Title: Lets talk ballast systems
Post by: polycell on June 09, 2011, 09:45:42 am

OK so I guess this subject has been round the buoy a few times but my head is rattling with all the methods available.
As an ex submariner I fully understand all the principles so I don't need a 'teach in' in submarine theory.  But what I would like is someone who has built a ballast system.  Yes I know we can buy a system but when you live on a pension with loads of time on your hands some designers and practical solutions are all thats needed.
I have a Sheerline type VII (rotten thing) I built a conventional ballast system using a plastic down pipe some valves and a pump.  Yep it works to a degree but it might not be man enough.
So any designs out there, please.
I was thinking of a gas system then perhaps depth of dive might not be a problem.
Thanks Fred

Title: Re: Lets talk ballast systems
Post by: thegrimreaper on June 09, 2011, 02:18:46 pm

I have the sheerline AKULA and it uses a similar ballast system as you have using a center tank a pinch valve and a one way pump believe me it is man enough for the job. The gas system is used primerily in the USA from what I have read on here

Regards Mark

Title: Re: Lets talk ballast systems
Post by: Subculture on June 09, 2011, 03:54:58 pm

Quite popular with the French too- http://rcballast.free.fr/LosAngeles3.1.htm

Title: Re: Lets talk ballast systems
Post by: Davy1 on June 10, 2011, 11:30:20 am

Hi Fred,

A useful review of dive systems below:

http://associationofmodelsubmariners.com/diving-systems-part-1.php

And some useful discussion of pressure tank system nitty gritty below:

http://www.theassociationofmodelsubmariners.com/t286-pumps-geared-variety
http://www.theassociationofmodelsubmariners.com/t380-pinch-valves

I must admit to being a fan of the pressure  tank system with 4 of my subs built using the system -  Low cost and failsafe. For precision control (at a price) look at piston tanks.

David

Title: Re: Lets talk ballast systems
Post by: Subculture on June 10, 2011, 12:22:37 pm

There was a plan produced some years back by a Canadian modelmaker called Greg Sharpe for a complete WTC with gas ballast system. AFAIK, it's the only time anyone has actually sat down and drafted a set of plans for a dive module. You could purchase these plans via a website at one time, but I don't think that is the case any longer, as the website is no longer active.

These plans were also published in the Sub Committee Report, unfortunately I cannot remember the issue number- but it was several years ago. I'm not sure if that back issue is still available in hardcopy, it's certainly available in electronic form, but at this moment in time, you have to purchase a DVD with several years worth of back issues which comes with rather a large sticker price, although there is an invaluable stash of knowledge available in those tomes.