Gyrocompass certification
The SGB 2000 gyrocompass manufactured by Teledyne TSS has been certified by Det Norske Veritas as meeting the standard required for use aboard IMO (International Maritime Organisation) registered vessels.
According to Teledyne TSS, the SGB 2000 is a solid state gyrocompass that meets the needs of customers requiring a cost-effective source of primary heading data. It incorporates maintenance free ring laser gyros and accelerometers which have a MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) in excess of 300,000 hours. With no moving parts and no requirement for regular maintenance the SGB 2000 offers a cost saving alternative to mechanical gyrocompasses.
Accurate headings are provided by the gyro which has a dynamic accuracy <0.25° RMS secant latitude that can be maintained during turns of up to 200 degrees per second. With a fast settling time and low power consumption the SGB 2000 is suitable for use on fast survey craft operating in rough, confined waters or for integration within the bridge of the largest ocean-going vessels. The gyro is also available in a subsea housing which enables the unit to be used in a variety of configurations at depths down to 3,000 metres from where it can support a wide range of subsea activities.
By Jake Frith