Smart Sampling at its best – with the improved MultiNet generation of the Multiple Plankton Sampler, the world’s leading sampling system for horizontal, oblique and vertical collections in successive water layers. The MultiNet can be delivered in 4 sizes (apertures): Mini (0.125 m²), Midi (0.25 m²), Maxi (0.5 m²) and Mammoth (1 m²). Depending on the model 5 or 9 net bags are attached to the stainless steel frame with strong canvas part by means of zip fasteners. The net bags are opened and closed by means of levers which are triggered by a battery powered Motor Unit. The commands for actuation of the net bags are given via single or multi-conductor cable between the Underwater Unit and the included Deck Command Unit. A wide selection of mesh sizes for the net bags is available to meet the requirements of all standard and non-standard applications. For common horizontal collections a mesh size of 300 microns is recommended (mesh sizes from 100 to 780 microns available), for vertical collections mesh sizes from 55 to 780 microns are applicable. For mesh sizes below 100 microns it is recommended to use an enhanced net bag (for example a double-layered net bag: one with 55 microns plus one with 300 microns )
An integrated Pressure Sensor (measuring range according to customers’ requirements) allows continuous supervision of the current operating depth. Depth values and all relevant system data are shown on the LCD-display of the Deck Command Unit. Two Electronic Flow Meters with automatic angle compensation are mounted to the Underwater Unit: one inside the frame for the determination of the amount of water passing through the open nets, one outside the opening for the determination of clogging effects. For horizontal collections a V-Fin Depth Depressor is attached to the MultiNet. To carry out vertical collections, a stainless steel support is securely attached to the net buckets and enables a quick lowering to depth.
In its initial position the MultiNet is brought to water with all net bags closed and the water flowing freely through the frame. The instrument can be lowered with high speed to the greatest desired depth. There the first net bag is opened by push-button control from the Deck Command Unit. At the end of the horizontal collection resp. after passing the intended depth interval in case of vertical operation, the first net bag is closed by a second command. The second net is opened simultaneously. This procedure is repeated for the remaining net bags and the Deck Command Unit indicates the number of the currently active net bag. During operations of Mini and Midi versions the last net (no. 5) remains open to collect plankton from the smallest desired depth up to the water surface. Using the Maxi and Mammoth versions the last net (no. 9) can be closed before reaching the water surface.
In case that a conducting cable is not available on board, the required sampling depth can be pre-programmed via personal computer. The activation of the net bags is then carried out automatically according to the pre-selected depth intervals. All measuring data are stored inside the internal data memory of 16 MByte during the operation and can be read out by a PC when the MultiNet is back on board.
