The challenge
Stingray Geophysical developed a fibre-optic sensing technology to help oil and gas companies monitor undersea reservoirs. However, the company needed to confirm that there would be no impact on sensor performance once the sensor was introduced to deeper water.
The solution
As part of the Measurements for Innovators (MFI) programme, Stingray Geophysical approached underwater acoustics experts at NPL's Underwater Acoustics Laboratory, who helped to develop a test to prove that an optical sensor unit (OSU) could stand up to increasing hydrostatic pressure. This meant that the company could qualify their sensor to water of depths of 600 metres.
The impact
Confirmation of sensor performance proved extremely valuable for Stingray Geophysical, as did the very quick turnaround at NPL. The project was completed two weeks after the initial phone call.