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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Need some advice on creating a waterproof container that allows for a sliding stainless steel rod (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 7 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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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 7 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.