Sea-Bird Scientific discusses the importance of data accuracy in ocean research by highlighting the role of controlled water flow in Conductivity-Temperature-Pressure (CTD) measurements, where synchronized conductivity and temperature readings are essential for precise salinity and density values. Read more >>
For reliable salinity and density data, conductivity, temperature, and pressure must be measured within the same water parcel.
However, CTD instruments often struggle with this, due to the physical distance between sensors, different response times, and changing profiling speeds caused by ship motion. Without synchronization, errors such as salinity spikes and density inversions can occur, making post-processing corrections difficult.
Sea-Bird Scientific CTDs overcome these limitations, actively controlling the flow of water through sensors. SBE instruments ensure conductivity and temperature are measured in the same water parcel, delivering accurate field data that goes beyond lab accuracy. The article references the SBE 911plus, SBE 11plus Deck Unit, and SBE 19plus instruments when explaining how pumped flow maintains synchronization.
The article explains that despite misconceptions, pumped CTDs can be used in long-term missions, with deployments such as at Argo floats, demonstrating that pumped systems are reliable and energy efficient for extended oceanographic research.
A detailed plot is also given highlighting the importance of synchronized conductivity and temperature measurements for accurate salinity data, especially in regions with strong thermoclines.
