Hollow glass spheres under pressure in the ocean--Experiments show interesting properties

Hollow glass spheres are widely used as floats at great ocean depth. Experiments under pressure have shown the effect of using various methods of joining two glass hemispheres together (fusing, rubber gaskets, grease, etc.), with successes and failures. The results of various pressure experiments on spheres and the failure of attempts to cause spheres to implode on command when under pressure using mechanical impact, blasting caps and heat are described. Static and cyclic fatigue of spheres under pressure is also covered. A method for over-pressure testing a glass sphere design for a short time to show that such a design is suitable for longterm deep submergence is presented.