With reference to the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System, conside...
Explanation:
The Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System is a technology used in submarines that allows them to operate without the need to surface for extended periods of time. It provides several advantages over conventionally propelled submarines, as mentioned in the given statements.
Statement 1: It allows longer submergence than a conventionally propelled submarine.
This statement is correct. The AIP system allows submarines to operate underwater for longer periods of time compared to conventionally propelled submarines. Conventionally propelled submarines rely on diesel engines for propulsion, which require oxygen from the atmosphere. As a result, they need to surface regularly to recharge their batteries and replenish their oxygen supply.
In contrast, the AIP system uses a closed-cycle engine that does not require oxygen from the atmosphere. It typically uses a fuel cell or a Stirling engine, which can generate power by combining fuel (such as hydrogen or diesel) with stored oxygen or by using an external heat source. This allows submarines equipped with AIP systems to stay submerged for several weeks or even months, significantly increasing their operational endurance.
Statement 2: It decreases the noise levels which makes it hard to detect the submarines.
This statement is also correct. The AIP system reduces the noise levels produced by submarines, making them harder to detect. Conventionally propelled submarines often rely on diesel engines, which can be quite noisy. The noise generated by these engines can be easily detected by sonar systems used for submarine detection.
In contrast, the AIP system uses quieter propulsion methods such as fuel cells or Stirling engines. These engines produce less noise, significantly reducing the acoustic signature of submarines equipped with AIP systems. This makes it harder for enemy forces to detect and track these submarines using sonar technology.
Conclusion:
Both statements are correct. The Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System allows longer submergence than conventionally propelled submarines and decreases the noise levels, making it harder to detect the submarines. Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C' - Both 1 and 2.
With reference to the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System, conside...
Recently, Larsen & Toubro and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) signed a contract for the realisation of two Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System Modules for Kalvari Class of submarines of the Indian Navy.
- With the emergence of submarines, there was a problem finding satisfactory forms of propulsion underwater.
- AIP is mostly implemented as an auxiliary source, with the traditional diesel engine handling surface propulsion.
- Most of these systems generate electricity, which in turn drives an electric motor for propulsion or recharges the boat’s batteries.
- AIP allows longer submergence than a conventionally propelled submarine.
- A typical conventional power plant provides 3 megawatts maximum, and an AIP source around 10 per cent of that. A nuclear submarine’s propulsion plant is much greater than 20 megawatts.
Key features of the AIP system:
- It allows the submarines to stay for longer hours in water. The submarines need to come to the surface of the water to charge their batteries. This is reduced by AIP System.
- It decreases the noise levels made by the submarines. This makes it hard to detect the submarines.
- Types of AIP: Open-cycle systems, Closed-cycle diesel engines, Closed-cycle steam turbines Stirling cycle engines and Fuel cells.
Hence both statements are correct.
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