ALVIN - 120 VDC/28VDC Electrical System

The original 60 VDC/30 VDC electrical system of the manned submersible Alvin was upgraded to a 120 VDC/28 VDC system during the 1986 overhaul. This change was necessary in part to support new brushless dc motors in the propulsion, variable ballast and hydraulic systems; it also allows using other standard electrical components such as lights. Component selection was based on space, performance and reliability factors and resulted in a combination of oil filled and pressure protected electrical systems. System documentation and qualification data were prepared to meet the requirements for U.S. Navy certification of manned submersibles. The notes on vehicle installation and operational experience provide meaningful guidelines for use in similar applications.