Non-corrosive structural material to handle saltwater at depth.

[gaterhawk]

Hi there,
I am working on a project that involves a spherical structure that will operate in salt/freshwater depths of 75 - 300ft at temperatures ranging from 34 to 65 degrees.

The structure itself will be subject to centrifugal force from current flow ranging between 8-18 knots internally, as well as external currents of 4-9 knots and pressure at depth.

I am hoping to be able to employ some kind of moldable composite, preferably with low friction properties.

intended use is permanent submersion.

Any thoughts on materials that could handle these stresses would be greatly appreciated.

 

[BigInch]

Corrosion at depth isn't such an unmanageable monster. It's corrosion within the oxygenated "splash zone" at the wavy surface interface with the atmosphere where big problems occur. (-10 to +20 feet MSL) I'd think you'd be fine using most any conventional steel and then applying a typical corrosion protection coating and cathodic protection.

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[whammett]

Make sure you cathodic protection calculations are correct. And also, even though the structure is permanent, you will eventually have to replace the sacrificial annode.

"Scientists dream about doing great things. Engineers do them." -James Michener