Ballast Weight
Ballast weight is any weight mounted on the buoy below the water surface or the buoys’ center of
gravity. Contrary to top-side weight, a ballast weight added further below the surface (Figure 4) will
provide a more significant stabilizing effect than the same size weight mounted closer to the
surface (Figure 5). An instrument cage mounted to the buoy frame helps stabilize the buoy and provides
a deeper location for mounting additional weight. For single-point mooring configurations, mooring
chains and lines connected to the bottom of the cage may provide adequate ballast. For multi-point
configurations, the mooring hardware does not contribute to the ballast weight. If needed, add ½ inch
galvanized chain (~2.3lb/ft) to the bottom of the cage, or utilize NexSens 25lb. ballast weight that can be
added to the cage in specific applications.
NexSens CB-series buoy data wells are not rated for submersion, so proper ballast weight is critical to
ensure that the buoy does not overturn, including when subjected to additional loading (e.g., high
wind/waves, periodic snow/ice loads, etc.).
For information on NexSens CB-Series buoy ballast weight recommendations, follow the link below.
NexSens CB-Series Buoy Ballast Weights
Figure 4: Ballast weight mounted deeper below the
surface provides greater buoy stability.
Figure 5: Ballast weight mounted closer to the surface
causes greater buoy instability.
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Summary of Contents for CB-450
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