AAE Dura-Spark UHD 240/400: Ultra-High Resolution Seismic Source

The Industry Workhorse for High-Resolution Sub-Bottom Geophysical Surveys

Product Overview 

The Applied Acoustic Engineering (AAE) Dura-Spark UHD 240/400 is a highly stable and repeatable seismic sound source designed for Ultra-High Resolution (UHR) geophysical surveys. Built to exceed the demands of the offshore wind and cable industries, the system provides high-quality stratigraphic data with a vertical resolution of up to 25 cm.

The "240/400" designation refers to the system's modularity: it can be configured with either 3 arrays of 80 tips (240 tips) or 5 arrays of 80 tips (400 tips). This allows the operator to tune the acoustic pulse—balancing penetration and resolution—directly from the vessel's junction box. Utilizing AAE’s "long-life" electrode technology, the Dura-Spark UHD maintains a consistent pulse signature over millions of shots with minimal maintenance.

Why Choose the Dura-Spark UHD 240/400?

• Tuning Flexibility: The ability to switch between 240 and 400 tips allows for a wide range of operational energy levels (typically 1000J to 2000J), making it suitable for both shallow coastal waters and deeper offshore sites up to 1,000 meters.
• Long-Life Electrodes: Proprietary electrode materials drastically reduce tip wear. This ensures the acoustic pulse remains stable throughout the survey and reduces downtime for tip replacement.
• Optimized for UHR Work: When paired with a negative voltage power supply (CSP-Nv series), the system produces a short, crisp pulse (0.5–1.5 ms) with a minimized bubble collapse component, resulting in cleaner seismic sections.
• Flip-Flop Capability: Supports "Flip-Flop" firing modes when used with appropriate junction boxes and dual power supplies, effectively doubling shot density for multi-channel seismic acquisition.
• Precision Positioning: Includes an integrated mount for the AAE 101G MiniPod, allowing for high-accuracy GNSS positioning of the sound source for sub-meter target georeferencing.