What are the dimensions of coated panels that I can submit for static immersion testing?
In static immersion tests (including waterline immersions), our maximum panel size in width is 6 inches (15.2 cm) and maximum height is 12 inches (30.5 cm). The maximum panel thickness is 0.5 cm. Any sizes below this maximum dimensions are acceptable without additional charges and the final decision about the panel size is left for the investigator. Mounting holes should be placed on top right and left, with diameter of at least 4 mm.
What if our test requires larger panels, can those be accommodated too?
Yes, we can still accommodate those panels. However, there will be surcharges based on the size of the panels.
Can I submit irregular size items for immersion tests?
Yes, you may submit any irregular size objects for the tests. The cost of the immersion tests will be calculated on a case by case basis, subject to the difficulties in conducting the inspections and the special mounting arrangements needed to be made on the platform.
How about the dimensions for dynamic tests?
The dynamic test machine holds specific size panels that are 6 inch (15.24 cm) by 4 inches (10.16 cm). This is available for purchase from ACT Panels as pre-sanded, pre-drilled steel or fiberglass panels. The position of the mounting hole is very important to fit our dynamic machine.
How do I order your dynamic panels?
Steel Panels
APR53743 ACT HRS – 04x06x071 Steel Grit Blast Both Sides; 2 Mil Profile
(individually wrapped in VCI paper to prevent corrosion)
Fiberglass
APR53940 Fiberglass 04x06x1/8″ Plain FRP – Smooth Finish
The panel can be purchased at the standard size of 4 inches by 6 inches (101.6 mm x 152.4 mm).
Contact:
Sales
ACT Test Panels Technologies
273 Industrial Drive Hillsdale, MI 49242
Phone: 1-517-439-1485
www.acttestpanels.com
Can I make my own panels rather than ordering from ACT panels?
Yes, you may fabricate one for your use. However, it must conform to our specified dimensions. If this is the route you wish to take, then request for a sample of a single panel to serve as a template to make your panels.
Can I paint one side with one coating and the other side with a different type?
Yes, you can place any coating on either side. Best to have the edges and all sides coated to prevent corrosion from undermining the test coat.
How do I get a quotation for the project?
Please contact Poseidon Sciences by email at poseidonnova@aol.com to request for a quotation. Use subject for your email as “Antifouling testing” so that your email is given priority. Please be ready to provide the following:
Type of test
Number of panels
Inspection schedule preferred: (note that first 4 months in monthly inspection as part of the initial contract testing).
Film thickness determination (Yes or No): (if yes, indicate how often)
Contact name and company address/phone
What are the terms of the contract testing?
• The minimum testing period is 4 months for both dynamic and static immersions.
• The minimum number of panels for static is 10 panels and 9 panels for dynamic test.
• The total cost for the 4-month test is prepaid by wire transfer before the start of the immersion test according to the cost worksheet provided to you in advance of the test. At the end of the 4-months of tests, you can elect to terminate all or some of the panels and continue the exposure test by notifying Poseidon within 10 days from the last inspection period. We will retain your panels on the immersion platform and remove them after 10 days if we do not receive further instructions. Should you continue the test for some or all of your panels, we will invoice you during each inspection period you specify only on those panels you chose to retain for further tests.
Can I specify the position of the panels in the dynamic machine?
Yes. There are three positions: 15 knots, 20 knots and 25 knots. You can select to place your panels in one or all different positions.
How deep are the dynamic panels submerged in seawater?
The top of the rotating frame of dynamic immersion machine is submerged below 2 ft from the surface of the ocean. The panels, depending on its position, are within 2 to 4 ft below the surface of the ocean. Barnacle cyprids typically are within this photic zone where food is plentiful.
Can we get our panels back after the test period is over?
Yes, you may choose to have us send the panels back to you. At the end of the study, the panels can be returned to the sponsor upon written request. Cost of panel preparation, preservation of fouling and shipping cost/customs duties will be invoiced as a separate cost. Because returning panels with biological specimens still attached is subject to restrictions, these panels are prepared by removing all barnacle flesh manually from inside the barnacles, without removal of the shell so you can see the position and size of the barnacles on the surface. The panels are dried in the sun and shipped by Postal SpeedPost from India. Typically, the panels will arrive within 10 days from shipment.. Cost of panel preparation is $25 per panel, plus shipping cost.
How do we receive data from each inspection reports?
All data are submitted electronically to one or more individuals in your company that are authorized by you. Inspection reports are typically provided within 5 business days from the scheduled date of inspection. Each panel will have a page that describes the test, date of inspection, panel ID and photograph of each side of the panel. This is submitted as Microsoft Word document enabling you to extract the image for presentation for use elsewhere. Typically, the images in the report are moderate file size to enable easier transmission through email. You may also request a high resolution image if you have other reporting plans. A summary page is provided for the all the panels which describes the number of barnacles and other fouling organisms present at the time of inspection and any other observations made on the inspection day that might be relevant in your interpretation of the results, such as any delamination, unusual surface effects, damage etc.
A sample of the inspection report can be seen here.
Can I ship panels any time of the year?
Yes, we can place panels on immersion test at any time of the year. Fouling in Tuticorin Bay is year round. The salinity is always high and the temperature always above 20oC. Barnacles are always present throughout the year.
Can you measure film thickness?
Yes. If you so instruct to measure film thickness, we will make the initial measurements upon arrival of the panels and at each period that you specify. The position of the initial measurements are marked using a template and we can go back to the exact site for measurement again. In some instances, barnacle attachment on the test area may prevent re-measurement of the coating, unless you specify for us to remove those barnacles. However this tends to cause coating damage.
How many panels should we ship?
The ideal test should have a triplicate for each coated panel to make sure that the results show some reproducibility. Five panels will be ideal if you expect the coating to be a high performing one. In this way, there will be enough, just in case one is lost due to inclement weather or you might wish to retrieve one for your own analysis at your laboratory.
How do we ship the panels?
All panels are shipped from your facility direct to SHMRC in Tuticorin. Instructions for shipping are sent to you upon confirmation of the project and as you get nearer to your shipping date. Panels for testi9ng should not be sent to Poseidon headquarters in NY as it adds extra cost to you for re-shipping to India. Shipment must be through express couriers, such as FEDEX, UPS, Airborne or similar door to door couriers. Shipment by airfreight is not recommended because it adds extra time processing through customs and requires extra duties and freight forwarding charges. More information is described in the “Shipping Instructions” document later on.
We will confirm by email when your panels arrive, the condition upon arrival and when your panel was placed on the immersion test.
To download a PDF copy, please click here.
