Polaron wins approval for submarine pressure transducers

Polaron Schaevitz has won approval from Weir Strachan & Henshaw to supply pressure transducers for their weapon handling and launch systems. The sensors will be used to measure water pressure in the torpedo discharge systems for the new Astute class nuclear submarines.


The approval follows a buy out of the Schaevitz pressure and displacement sensor lines by the Watford-based Polaron group in 2002.


The pressure sensors are based on an innovative mechanical design which makes them extremely rugged and ensures high reliability.


"The approval process included a demanding appraisal of our quality and validation procedures," said Steve Couchman, consultant to Polaron Schaevitz.


As well as demanding a high level of reliability, the application requires the transducers to be able to withstand high levels of overload without sustaining damage. This is achieved through the incorporation of an overtravel stop which protects the sensor's diaphragm.


"This approval by Weir Strachan & Henshaw demonstrates the benefits of strong company backing," stated Polaron's chief executive Joe Stelzer. "Schaevitz has a long and well-respected pedigree and we are delighted to be giving it the resources to thrive in an increasingly demanding marketplace."


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Photo caption: Polaron Schaevitz pressure sensors have been approved for use in the torpedo discharge systems for Astute class submarines.


Notes to editors

Polaron Schaevitz is part of the UK's Polaron Components Group and is recognised worldwide for its specialist switches and sensors. These are widely used in the most demanding applications, including in defence, aerospace, offshore, rail, security and medical equipment.


Parent group Polaron is a privately held UK engineering group focusing on niche engineering markets. The group is expanding rapidly, with revenue increasing by 50 per cent over the last year.


Date: 29 January 2004

Ref: PCOM1-04


Press enquiries:

Stephen Bailey

Antimony Communications

Tel: +44 (0)1483 416807

Fax: +44 (0)1483 861754

Email: sbailey@antimony.co.uk


Other enquiries:

Steve Couchman

Polaron Components Group

26 Greenhill Crescent, Watford Business Park, Watford, WD18 8XG, United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 1933 317770

Mobile:+44 (0) 7876 450445

Fax: +44 (0) 1933 317770

Email: scouchman@polaron.co.uk

Web: www.polaron.co.uk/components