The prototype 66-inch diameter spherical hull of NEMO with 2.5 inch wall thickness has been subjected to a series of hydrostatic tests under simulated hydrospace environment to determine its structural integrity. After repeated long term and cyclic tests in the 220 to 2400 foot depth range, the hull was tested to implosion at 4150 feet. The magnitude of strains measured on the hull during cyclic and long term loadings, as well as the short term implosion depth of 4150 feet indicate that the hull satisfies the 1000 foot design depth requirement and can be without any further tests incorporated into any man-rated system approved for operation in the 0 to 600 foot depth range. (Author)
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