Reliably Powering Remote Seismic Stations in a Harsh Environment
Abstract
Three decades of experience in the operation of remote seismic stations in Alaska has demonstrated the need for reliable power systems in a harsh arctic environment. Legacy remote power systems have included Edison Aircells, a primary battery; Gel Cells, a secondary (rechargeable battery) and photovoltaic panels; wind generators; and propane TEG (thermal electric generators). The most reliable were the primary battery system but they were expensive, needed replacement every year and increasingly became a hazardous waste disposal problem. We have combined several of these power technologies to provide reliable, cost effective power for our current generation of analog and digital remotely powered seismic stations in Alaska with the use of a power controller. The features of the power controller are: to provide redundant power system control, solar panel voltage regulation, secondary battery charge regulation, state-of-heath output, and a primary battery "fuel gauge". Results of operations are presented.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2002
- Bibcode:
- 2002AGUFM.S71A1072E
- Keywords:
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- 7294 Instruments and techniques