L FOREWORD
The IDRONAUT sensors are all pressure compensated and, in particular, the physical sensors
(conductivity, temperature and pressure) can last several years, if properly used. They are high-quality
sensors and are well known by oceanographers to measure salinity with great accuracy. Even the
chemical sensors: pH, dissolved oxygen and redox, if thoroughly maintained with their respective
hydrating caps and solutions, can last some years.
The aim of this application note is to make recommendations, based on our experience, on cleaning,
care and storage of the IDRONAUT chemical and physical sensors installed in the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx
probes. Most of the recommendations below reported are taken from the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx
Operator’s Manuals.
This application note is divided into three sections:
➢ OCEAN SEVEN 3xx probes general cleaning.
➢ Sensor dedicated care and cleaning.
➢ Special cleaning for the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx probes used to carry out long-term monitoring in salt
and fresh water
L.1 GENERAL CLEANING
After use, the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx probe must be always washed to remove any salt water residual or
dirtiness. Deionized water, distilled water or fresh, tap water can be used. Verify that fresh water used
to clean the probe is not contaminated even by any small quantity of oil. In this case, do not use this
water.
In case the probe body or the sensors have any visible deposits of marine growths, we recommend
cleaning the probe body with some liquid soap and a small “soft” brush to clean the sensor bulkheads
between the sensors. In case the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx sensors had been exposed to oil, we suggest using
the Triton X-100 (solution at 1-2 %) in place of the liquid soap.
Alternatively to the “Liquid soap” or the Triton X-100, it is possible to use a solution of 70% isopropyl
alcohol or a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach in 4 litres of tap water.
In case the OCEAN SEVEN 3xx probe is used in wastewater, it may be disinfected with 5% Lysol if this
is more convenient to the user.
L.2 SENSOR DEDICATED CLEANING AND CARE
L.2.1 Pressure sensor
The pressure sensor is an almost maintenance-free device, which
meets the highest reliability standards thus reducing the chance of
possible failures. The pressure transducer is located in the middle of
the probe bottom flange, protected by a plastic black cap. Every five
years, ask IDRONAUT to remove the pressure sensor plastic o-ring
cap and brush any sediment using a soft-haired brush. Remove
excess grease using a tissue or cotton bud. Take care not to damage
the very thin pressure sensor diaphragm. Gently apply a thin layer
of grease on the sensor surface to minimize any device corrosion.
Ensure that the holes in the pressure sensor cover are not blocked
with sediment.
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