Heat flow density measurements

BGR’s conventional heat flow probe on deck of the old RV SONNE Source: BGR

The conventional heat flow probe developed at BGR consists of a 3.5 m long stabilization lance made from fiberglass and the actual sensor rod in which the 8 thermistors and the heating wire are embedded. The top weight has a mass of 1.6 tons.

Deployment of the BGR hard-ground heat flow probe in the Baffin Bay from OGS EXPLORA Source: BGR

The so-called hard ground heat flow probe, also developed at BGR, is optimized for domains in which consolidated sediments and less sediment coverage are expected. The operation works as below: Immediately after the probe has landed slowly on the seabed, the top weight pushes the 2.2 m long sensor centrally guided into the sea floor. The diameter of the rod is only 2 cm. Deflections which may result in a break are prevented by support plates. The 750 kgs heavy top weight houses not only lead plates but also the sensor electronics including the online data transfer on deck. For the probe a patent is granted.