Buzz
Diesel submarines are equipped with multiple diesel engines. These engines operate in tandem, with one propelling the submarine and the other powering a generator. Stocktrek Images / Getty Images/Stocktrek ImagesKey Takeaways
- Diesel submarines need to surface or deploy a snorkel to operate their diesel engines, which either power the submarine directly or recharge extensive battery systems for underwater travel.
- When submerged, the submarine depends solely on electric motors powered by batteries, restricting its underwater operational time.
- Nuclear submarines, which do not rely on atmospheric oxygen for power, can stay submerged for extended periods, providing a notable edge over diesel-electric submarines.
A diesel submarine serves as an excellent illustration of a hybrid vehicle. Typically, these submarines are equipped with two or more diesel engines. These engines can either directly power the propellers or operate generators to recharge a substantial battery bank. They can also function together, with one engine propelling the submarine and the other generating electricity.
The submarine must surface or use a snorkel to operate its diesel engines. Once the batteries are fully charged, the sub can dive underwater. The batteries then supply power to electric motors that drive the propellers. Battery operation is essential for the submarine to remain submerged.
The limitations of battery technology significantly restrict the duration a diesel submarine can stay underwater. This is where nuclear-powered submarines have a distinct advantage. Since nuclear reactors do not require oxygen, a nuclear sub can remain submerged for weeks. For more details, refer to How Nuclear Power Works.
Explore these links for further information:
- How Submarines Work
- How Batteries Work
- How Hybrid Cars Work
- Carnegie Science Center: USS Requin SS-481
- Museum of Science and Industry: The U-505 Tour
- Luxury Submarines: The Nomad 1000
- About.com: The Evolution of Submarine Design
