Samudrayaan: Isro working on development of personnel sphere for deep-sea mission
Matsya-6000 is the submersible that is being developed as a manned vehicle to send three humans to a depth of over 5,000 meters below sea level. (Photo: NIOT)
The personnel sphere measures 2.26 metre in diameter and features an 80 millimeter-thick wall made from a titanium alloy, known for its superior strength and corrosion resistance. Engineered to withstand extreme pressures up to 600 bar at temperatures as low as -3C, this pressure hull can safely accommodate a three-member crew at great ocean depths.One of the biggest technical challenges was developing a reliable Electron Beam Welding (EBW) process capable of fusing thick (80-102 mm) titanium plates.The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) Bengaluru took charge of augmenting its welding facility from a 15kW to a 40kW EBW capacity. Over 700 weld trials were conducted to optimise the process parameters, ensuring high quality and structural integrity.For quality assurance, Isro enhanced its X-ray radiography capability, one of the highest energy levels used in India, allowing detailed non-destructive evaluation (NDE) of the welded joints. Techniques such as Time of Flight Diffraction (TOFD) and Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing (PAUT) were employed to detect microscopic defects, guaranteeing safety and reliability. Approval from third-party certification agencies for the welding procedures and product safety is underway.The successful welding and rigorous testing of a full-scale 7100 mm-long personnel sphere, welded over 32 minutes, marks a national first. This achievement positions India among a select few nations with the technological prowess to build deep-sea human habitats.With this critical component getting ready, the Samudrayaan mission moves closer to launching manned explorations of the deep Indian Ocean, promising advancements in marine research, resource utilisation, and underwater technology development.- EndsMust Watch
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