HOT WATER BOILER CUTS THE ICE IN THE ANTARCTIC
Scientists from New Zealand's Industrial Research Ltd. have developed a novel way of "breaking the ice barrier" in the Antarctic to help them carry out oceanography testing and research. Creating an opening in the ice using Kerrick’s Firebox Boiler the scientist’s lower robots and instrumentation into the water to measure currents and ocean temperatures as part of their research work.
In a novel approach this team of scientists have developed a system where food grade glycol is circulated through a Firebox Boiler and then through a flat plate heat exchanger (eliminating the need to circulate corrosive sea water through the boiler). On the other side of the heat exchanger is a sea water circulation system; these systems are then attached to various cutters depending on the work required.
Examples of some of the cutting systems used include: A square of ¾ copper tube with holes along the bottom edge creating a series of jets facing towards the ice. The square sits on the surface and slowly sinks as the ice melts. Another variation is a tee cutter which works in the same fashion, but has a straight tube which cuts a slot. Four slots cut in the shape of a square, usually results in a 1m3 cube that is as tall as the ice is thick. The cube is then lifted out with a toggle arrangement attached to a crane. The team also has cutting attachments similar to lawn sprinklers that create smaller holes.
The Firebox Boiler system is housed in a container which can be lowered on to site by helicopter, permitting access to rough terrain than would otherwise be inaccessible. The container also provides much needed shelter from the freezing winds and snow as the weather is not always as good as what is shown in the photographs.
For more information on the Firebox Boiler click here.