User Guide

Knowledge Base

XB-200 Buoy Assembly


The NexSens buoy instrument cage attaches to the bottom of the XB-200 data buoy for water sensor deployments, simultaneously lowering the center of gravity and increasing stability. The cage is a critical component of a data buoy’s ballast weight and provides a mounting location for additional ballast weight as needed. The solar tower contains an array of (3) 15-watt solar panels wired in parallel to provide 45 watts of solar charging. A top plate made of Starboard marine plastic provides a mounting location for top-side sensors.

 

Instrument Cage Installation
  1. Use a 3/4” socket or wrench to remove the (6) pre-installed bolts from the bottom of the buoy.

Figure 1: Cage bolt removal.

 

  1. Align the included instrument cage with the open bolt holes on the bottom of the buoy. Use a 3/4” socket or wrench to re-install the (6) bolts and tighten the cage to the buoy.
    1. Ensure to tighten only until the lock washers are flattened.
    2. Use the “star” or “criss-cross” pattern while installing the cage.

Figure 2: Cage installation.

Figure 3: Bolt installation.

 

Solar Tower Installation
  • Use a 1/2” socket or wrench and the (6) included hex head cap bolts, lock washers, and flat washers to install the solar tower.
    • It is recommended to apply an anti-seize compound to the bottom threads of each bolt before installation.
    • Ensure the solar tower cables are free and not pinched beneath the tower upon installation.

Figure 4: Solar tower installation.

 

Ballast Weight & Stability

Additional ballast weight may be needed to prevent the overturning of an XB-200 buoy system and ensure its stability in the water. The buoy’s center of gravity is near the water surface without instruments connected. Any weight added above the water surface must be appropriately counterbalanced by adding ballast weight below the surface. The buoy data well is not rated for submersion, so proper ballast weight is critical to ensure that the buoy does not overturn, including when the buoy is subjected to additional loading (e.g. high wind/waves, periodic snow/ice loads, etc.).

For more information regarding top-side and ballast weight, follow the link provided:

 

Figure 5: XB-200 buoyancy diagram.