McLane Research Laboratories, Inc. products

The McLane Moored Profiler (MMP) autonomously profiles the water column along a fixed tether while carrying a selection of oceanographic sensors. Profiling depth, time intervals and pressure stops are user-defined, and profiling patterns can span specific seasons or timeframes. An optional underwater inductive modem provides real-time communication between the MMP and a surface buoy or seabed node. We offer two MMP models: the standard and extended version.  The extended MMP provides 50% more battery capacity and is 12.7cm longer than the standard MMP.

The Prawler (PRofiling crAWLER) is a low-cost, wave-actuated vehicle that moves along the mooring wire, collecting data from the surface to 500m of the water column. Data can include conductivity, temperature, depth (CTD), optical backscatter, and dissolved oxygen. Wave motion and special ratcheting clamps move the vehicle up the wire. The Prawler free-falls to the bottom of the user programmed profiling range, collecting data measurements. Wave oscillation powers vehicle movement. Sensors are powered by primary lithium batteries.

The Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) provides in situ collection and analysis of water samples from the subsurface ocean. The instrument is an electromechanical, fluidics system designed to collect discrete water samples, concentrate microorganisms or particles, and automate application of molecular probes in order to identify microorganisms and their gene products. Data generated are then available for remote retrieval and analysis in near real-time.

The Imaging FlowCytobot (IFCB) is an in-situ automated submersible imaging flow cytometer that generates images of particles in-flow taken from the aquatic environment. The IFCB uses a combination of flow cytometric and video technology to capture high resolution images of suspended particles. Laser- induced fluorescence and light scattering from individual particles are measured and used to trigger targeted image acquisition; the optical and image data are then transmitted to shore in real time.Collected images during continuous monitoring can be processed externally with automated image classification software. Images can be classified to the genus or even species level with demonstrated accuracy comparable to that of human experts.

The Phytoplankton Sampler (PPS) is an autonomous particulate sampler that filters up to 24 individual water samples through 47mm filters. Samples are collected in user-defined time series to collect trace metals, phytoplankton and suspended particles. The patented multi-port valve isolates individual samples and distributes water directly to the filter before passing through a pump.

The Remote Access Sampler (RAS) is a deep water or coastal time series water sampler that collects samples for biological, dissolved major and minor nutrient, dissolved trace metal, or dissolved organic carbon analyses. The RAS sampler collects ambient water and suspended material in Tedlar® bags, isolating the samples for subsequent laboratory analysis. The RAS-500 collects 48 samples of 500ml each and the RAS-100 collects 48 samples of 100ml each, following a user defined sampling schedule. RAS systems can optionally be fitted with in-line pre-filters and an external temperature sensor. Deployment data with a report of sample event conditions is stored to non-volatile EEPROM.

Time-series sediment traps were the original McLane Research Laboratories product line when the company was founded in 1983. Sediment Traps collect vertically settling particles into individual sample bottles which are sealed when not in collection mode. Our traps provide exceptional performance for biogeochemical studies including radionucleide, paleoproxy, carbon cycle analysis. They are also beneficial for environmental and pollution monitoring.

The Large Volume Water Transfer System (WTS-LV) is a large volume single-event sampler that collects suspended and dissolved particulate samples in situ into a 142mm membrane filter. The WTS-LV allows for a choice of pump size and filter porosity for a range of specimen collection. The Large Volume Water Transfer System (WTS-LV) is a large volume single-event sampler that collects suspended and dissolved particulate samples in situ into a 142mm membrane filter. The WTS-LV allows for a choice of pump size and filter porosity for a range of specimen collection. Collection targets include chlorophyll maximum, particulate trace metals, and phytoplankton.

McLane Glass flotation, depth-rated to 6,000m, is ideal for moorings and custom instrument design such as ocean-bottom seismology instruments. Flotation modules with 12” borosilicate glass spheres have 10 to 40kg of buoyancy and are protected by polyethylene, high visibility hardhats. Multiple spheres in a modular configuration have a through-center connecting rod to reduce mooring drag. This design eliminates cable twist for more reliable mooring performance. We offer three glass flotation models: G2200 single sphere model (10kg of buoyancy), G6600 triple sphere model (30kg of buoyancy), and G8800 quad sphere model (40kg of buoyancy).