Installation summary
The installation of the ES18 transducer is a key task for successful installation of the echo sounder system. Not only will you need to penetrate the vessel’s hull, you must also to select a physical location for maximum performance and minimum acoustic and electric noise.
Prerequisites
To get a full overview of the installation, you need all relevant vessel drawings. You also need the drawings provided for the ES18 transducer.
Context
The outline dimensions of the ES18 transducer and the relevant installation items can be found in the Drawing file chapter in this manual.
End user manuals and source drawings (normally in AutoCad format) can be downloaded from our website.
A transducer must always be handled as a delicate instrument. Incorrect actions may damage the transducer beyond repair. Observe these transducer handling rules:
•  Do not activate the transducer when it is out of the water.
•  Do not handle the transducer roughly. Avoid impacts.
•  Do not expose the transducer to direct sunlight or excessive heat.
•  Do not use high-pressure water, sandblasting, metal tools or strong solvents to clean the transducer face.
•  Do not damage the outer protective skin of the transducer face.
•  Do not lift the transducer by the cable.
•  Do not step on the transducer cable.
•  Do not damage the transducer cable, and avoid exposure to sharp objects.
Procedure
1 Determine the physical location of the transducer.
The decision must be based on:
•  The vessel drawings
•  The shape and properties of the hull
Make sure that all possible considerations are made to reduce noise.
2 Based on the shape of the transducer housing, and the mounting devices available, determine the installation method.
3 Design, manufacture and mount the necessary fairing, installation blister, keel box and/or tank that is required to mount the transducer.
4 Install the bushing.
5 Design, manufacture and mount the steel conduit for the transducer cable.
6 Unpack the transducer from its transport crate.
7 Position the transducer under the mounting location.
8 Pull the transducer cable up through the steel conduit.
9 Tighten the packing nipple on the cable gland properly to avoid leaks.
10 Mount the transducer.
11 Seal the top of the steel conduit to prevent water leaks.
12 Connect the transducer cable to the transceiver.
13 If your vessel will operate in waters with a lot of marine growth, consider applying a thin layer of anti-fouling paint to the transducer face.