Engineering

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A place to geek out about engineering, fabrication, and design. All disciplines are welcome. Ask questions, share knowledge, show off projects you're proud of, and share interesting things you find.

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kersploosh

Need some advice on creating a waterproof container that allows for a sliding stainless steel rod (self.engineering)

submitted 10 months ago by Ynrielle to c/engineering

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Hello lemgineers!

I'm working on designing a claw that can be operated underwater. The plan is to use a linear actuator in a waterproof housing. The main issue is allowing the shaft to slide through without causing a leak. What's the best way to go about this?

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[–] [email protected] 10 points 10 months ago

If you have an air line to the surface, then running the enclosure at positive pressure to negate the force of water pressure at depth might be a starting point.

I would also reconsider whether a linear actuator is the right approach. A hydraulic piston external to the housing where your motor resides reduces the complexity of any waterproofing, and might be a better approach if you're dealing with significant depths/pressures.