Snorkel System and Gas Exhaust Valves
The design solution for the Snorkel Mast has been studied following the standard L3Harris' masts design concept and especially to allow inducing air vertically through the mast with minimum air pressure drop (Air Flow Optimization) to enhance diesel engine efficiency.
L3Harris provides qualified air induction valves integrated with the design of the boat and of the snorkel mast. The design solution for the snorkel allows the air induction through the mast with an optimized air flow. This guarantees minimum pressure drop, enhancing diesel engines efficiency. The entire system is designed to withstand underwater pressure up to a certain depth, where the concealed underwater preparation occurs (wet version), or up to the maximum diving depth of the submarine (dry version).
A wave-following snorkel version of the same system has also proven its validity at sea. In this special configuration the upper part of the snorkel head has been designed to follow in real time the sea water level. The fluctuating head portion that emerge is constant, independently of the water level, due to a control system activated by water sensors located on top of the snorkel mast. Stealth characteristics are furthermore increased.
The design of the Gas Exhaust Valve System is aimed to eliminating dangerous sea-water leaks and noise during operations. Each valve of the gas exhaust system is made of special stainless steel. This product has been manufactured for various customers since the first installation occurred over 40 years ago.
Non Hull Penetrating Mast Options
L3Harris also provides other kinds of Non Hull Penetrating Mast, featuring both electrical or hydraulic actuation configuration.
