Cartridge Seals

View example cartridge seals.

Cartridge seals must be checked before every dive and must be replaced with new ones before the air bubble reaches 1/2 of the volume of the seal. Cartridge seals must also be replaced with new ones if they contain contamination or look milky instead of clear. On long duration dives, the cartridge seals should be checked at hourly intervals during the dive unless this is impossible (for example, continuous extended video is required). Any cartridge seal that shows a high rate of air bubble growth or increasing contamination should be replaced (if unable to be replaced on-site, it must be checked more frequently until it is replaced). When replacing seals that are worn, the shaft must be checked for scoring or other signs of wear that could lead to premature seal failure. The shaft must also be checked for wobble (bent), which could also lead to premature seal failure. Thrusters should not be run for more than a minute in air, which could also result in premature seal failure. Cartridge seals must be replaced in a clean environment to ensure a good water tight fit of the O-ring and seals.

If these recommendations are followed, the ROV should NEVER experience a flood through the cartridge seal unless the seal itself suffers a catastrophic failure. VideoRay's warranty does not cover damage due to flooding of the ROV through a cartridge seal unless the customer can demonstrate that they have followed the above recommendations and there is reasonable evidence that the seal failed catastrophically due to a manufacturing defect.

Cartridge Seal Storage Recommendations:

• Cartridge seals should be stored in a sealed plastic bag so they do not attract dirt.

• Recommended storage temperature is between 2 to 15 degrees C (35 to 60 degrees F) to keep the storage gel from softening and allowing the oil to drain.

• Storage or transport at low air pressure (checked baggage in an unpressurized cabin) is not recommended.