Cygnus M3-DIVE User manual

Cygnus DIVE
Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge for Divers
Operation Manual
Covers Gauge Model: M3-DIVE
Doc No. M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
June 2021
(Mk3 DIVE Gauges)

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 2 of 117
Contents
1. Introduction......................................................................7
Cygnus DIVE Underwater Thickness Gauge................................7
Cygnus Instruments...............................................................8
2. Gauge Kit Contents ...........................................................9
3. The DIVE Gauge ..............................................................10
Features of the DIVE Gauge ..................................................10
Fitting the DIVE Gauge .........................................................10
4. Batteries .........................................................................13
Important Notes..................................................................13
Use in Hyperbaric Conditions .................................................13
Shipping of Lithium Batteries.................................................13
Fitting the Battery ...............................................................13
Removing the Battery ..........................................................14
Charging the Battery............................................................15
5. Fitting the Ultrasonic Probe ............................................16
Important –Cap Fitment ......................................................16
Connecting the Probe ...........................................................16
Probe Calibration Check Message ...........................................17
Securing the Probe while Diving.............................................18
6. Ultrasonic Probes (Transducers).....................................19
Important Notes..................................................................19
Probe Types........................................................................19
Single Element Probes..........................................................19
Twin Element Probes............................................................20
Identifying Single or Twin Element Probes ...............................20
Probe Identification Band......................................................21
Probe Frequencies ...............................................................21
Probe Measurement Ranges ..................................................22
Probe Selection Chart...........................................................24
Single Element Probes and Protective Membranes.....................25
Changing the Protective Membrane on Single Element Probes.....26
Automatic Probe Type Detection ............................................27
Twin Element Probe Wear Indication.......................................27
7. Measure Modes ...............................................................28
Multiple Echo Mode (ME).......................................................28
Single Echo Mode (SE) .........................................................28

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 3 of 117
Echo-Echo Mode (EE) ...........................................................29
Measuring Small Diameter Pipe & Tubes..................................30
8. Why should I Calibrate my Thickness Gauge?.................31
9. Using the DIVE Gauge.....................................................32
Turning the Gauge On ..........................................................32
Zeroing the Probe (twin crystal) ..........................................33
Turning the Gauge Off..........................................................33
Before Each Dive .................................................................34
The Measurement Screen......................................................35
No Probe Connected Message .............................................35
Low Battery Level .............................................................36
Displaying Thickness Measurements ....................................36
The A-Scan Display ...........................................................36
A-Scan Display in Single Echo Mode....................................37
Surface Preparation .............................................................37
Taking a Thickness Measurement ...........................................39
Measuring Small Pipe with Twin Crystal Probes.........................39
Signal Strength Indication.....................................................39
Echo Bars in Multiple Echo Mode ............................................40
Stability Indication in Single Echo & Echo-Echo Modes...............41
10. Interpreting the A-Scan Display in Multiple Echo Mode42
Pits and Flaws .....................................................................43
Heavy Corrosion..................................................................44
11. Interpreting the A-Scan Display in Single Echo Mode ..46
Measuring Over Corrosion Pits ...............................................47
12. Interpreting the A-Scan Display in Echo-Echo Mode ....49
13. Changing Gauge Settings.............................................50
The Two Button System........................................................50
Button Functions in Menus .................................................50
Button Functions in Setup Screens.......................................51
Gauge Settings Saved with Probe Type ...................................51
Displaying the Menu.............................................................52
Menu Tree Diagram .............................................................53
Data Logging Menu (DATA LOG MENU).................................54
A-Scan Range Setting (A-SCAN RANGE) ...............................54
Turning the A-Scan Display On or Off (A-SCAN DISPLAY)........55
Setting the Velocity of Sound (VELOCITY).............................55
Calibrating to a Known Thickness (CALIBRATE) .....................56
Two Point Calibration (CALIBRATE 2 POINT)..........................57

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 4 of 117
Ladder Step Wedge ..........................................................57
Two Point Calibration Procedure .........................................58
Zeroing the Twin Crystal Probe (ZERO PROBE) ......................59
Material Velocity of Sound List (MATERIAL LIST)....................61
Measurement Units (UNITS) ...............................................62
Thickness Measurement Resolution (RESOLUTION) ................62
Multiple Echo Mode ..........................................................62
Single Echo and Echo-Echo Modes .....................................62
Deep Coat Feature (DEEP COAT) .........................................63
Changing the Measurement Mode (MEASURE MODE) ..............63
Probe Type Selection (PROBE TYPE).....................................64
Setting the Power Save Timer (POWER-SAVE TIMER) .............64
Calibration Lock Feature .......................................................65
14. Data Logging ...............................................................66
AutoLog Feature..................................................................66
Grouping Measurements .......................................................67
Measurement Screen while Data Logging.................................67
Starting a Data Logging Session (START LOGGING) ..................68
Ending a Data Logging Session (STOP LOGGING) .....................68
Starting a new Group of Measurements (START NEW GROUP) ....69
Deleting the Last Measurement (DELETE LAST) ........................69
Clearing the Data Logger Memory (CLEAR MEMORY) .................70
Viewing the Data Logging Status (DATA LOGGER STATUS).........71
Setting the AutoLog RELEASE period (DLOG RELEASE TIME) ......71
15. HelmetView Remote Display ........................................72
Fitting the Mounting Bracket..................................................72
16. Topside Repeater Remote Display Kit ..........................74
Part Numbers......................................................................74
Kit Contents........................................................................74
Operation...........................................................................75
Turning the Unit On...........................................................75
Turning the Unit Off ..........................................................75
Changing the Displayed Units .............................................75
Display Hold Function ........................................................75
Automatic Display Backlight................................................75
Connecting to the DIVE Gauge............................................75
Testing the Link................................................................76
Changing the Batteries ......................................................76
Topside Repeater with Video Overlay ......................................76

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 5 of 117
Connecting the Video Signal ...............................................77
Positioning the On-Screen Display .......................................77
17. CygLink Surface Display and Control Kit ......................79
Part Numbers......................................................................79
Kit Contents........................................................................79
Connection Diagram.............................................................80
Connector Details and Signals ...............................................80
Using CygLink with HelmetView .............................................80
Installing CygLink ................................................................81
Requirements...................................................................81
Upgrading........................................................................81
Installing .........................................................................81
COM Port Numbers ..............................................................82
Setting the COM Port Manually............................................82
Finding your COM Port Number ...........................................82
Connecting to the Gauge ......................................................83
First time USB Connection..................................................83
Connecting the Gauge to CygLink for the First Time ...............84
Connecting to the Gauge Afterwards ....................................85
Disconnecting from the Gauge ............................................85
Manual Connection Settings................................................85
Changing Gauge Settings......................................................86
Material Velocity List .........................................................86
A-Scan Measurement Cursors................................................87
Using the A-Scan Cursors with Twin Crystal Probes ................87
CygLink Surveys and Data Logging.........................................88
Editing the Survey Details ..................................................89
Editing the Survey Group Details.........................................90
Producing a Survey Report Document ..................................90
Transferring Data Logged Measurements from the DIVE gauge ...91
Logging Measurements Directly in CygLink ..............................92
Reference and Minimum Thickness Criteria ...........................92
Pre-Set Measurement Comments List...................................92
Adding Comments or Notes to a Measurement ......................93
To Change the COM Port number assigned by Windows®...........94
Opening Device Manager....................................................94
CygLink Trouble Shooting .....................................................95
Connection Problems –USB Drivers.....................................95
Wiring Problems ...............................................................96

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 6 of 117
18. General Points on Thickness Gauging using Multiple
Echo Measurements..............................................................97
19. Care and Servicing.......................................................98
Cleaning the Gauge..............................................................98
Batteries ............................................................................98
Environmental.....................................................................98
Repairs ..............................................................................99
Returning the Gauge for Servicing..........................................99
20. Replaceable Parts ......................................................100
Wrist Strap....................................................................... 100
Push Buttons .................................................................... 100
21. Spares and Accessories List.......................................101
Ultrasonic Probes............................................................... 101
Probe Spares for S*C 13mm (½”) Probes .............................. 101
Probe Spares for S*A 6mm (¼”) Probes................................ 101
Gauge Spares ................................................................... 102
Accessories....................................................................... 102
Miscellaneous Spares ......................................................... 103
22. Technical Specifications.............................................104
23. Table of Sound Velocities...........................................107
Reading Conversions ....................................................... 108
24. Recycling and Disposal (EC Countries).......................109
25. Shipping of Lithium-Ion Batteries..............................110
Battery Information ........................................................... 110
26. Warranty Information................................................111
27. Pressure Test Statement............................................112
28. Connection Diagram: Umbilical Cable ........................113
29. Connection Diagram: Umbilical to TSR.......................114
30. Connection Diagram: DIVE to Umbilical .....................115
31. Index .........................................................................116

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 7 of 117
1. Introduction
Cygnus DIVE Underwater Thickness Gauge
The Cygnus DIVE Underwater Thickness Gauge has been
specifically designed for the professional diver undertaking metal
thickness surveys in both shallow and deep water sites. It has
been design to withstand the extreme environments encountered
while providing quick, clear and accurate metal thickness
measurements using the Cygnus Multiple Echo technique and
Single Echo / Echo-Echo options.
The Cygnus DIVE Underwater Thickness gauge is pressure rated to
a maximum depth of 300 meters sea water (984 ft).
The gauge can be worn on the diver’s fore-arm allowing one hand
to remain free while carrying out the thickness survey. A bright
colour display shows the thickness measurement in large numbers.
Thickness measurements are further backed up by an A-scan
display. Measurement data can be sent to the surface via a RS-
485 serial data link where they can be data logged and used to
produce a survey report using Cygnus’CygLink software.
Measurements can be displayed in Metric (mm) or Imperial (inch)
units and measurement resolution can be selected from 0.01
1
,
0.05 or 0.1 mm, (0.001
2
, 0.002 or 0.005 inch). Thickness
measurements can easily be calibrated to a known thickness or to
a known Velocity of Sound.
The gauge is a solid-state electronic instrument which, under
normal operating conditions, will give many years of active
service.
Although designed for ease of operation first time users
should carefully read this manual to familiarise themselves
with the features of the gauge
1
Single Echo Mode Only
2
Single Echo Mode Only

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 8 of 117
Cygnus Instruments
Cygnus Instruments Limited, founded in 1983, pioneered the
development of the Digital Ultrasonic Multiple-Echo Technique
used for measurement through coatings. This has long since been
the standard required to ensure that accurate measurements are
taken without the need to zero the gauge or remove any coatings
first.
Our philosophy is to work closely our customers to provide high
quality products, engineered to serve heavy industry & harsh
environments. Cygnus Ultrasonic thickness gauges are designed to
be reliable and simple to use. We have an unrivalled reputation in
over 45 countries around the world.
CYGNUS Instruments Ltd.
Cygnus House, 30 Prince of Wales Road,
Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1PW England.
Website: www.cygnus-instruments.com
Tel: 00 44 (0) 1305 265533
Fax: 00 44 (0) 1305 269960
sales@cygnus-instruments.com
Cygnus UAE
Cygnus Instruments Middle East
P.O. Box 127267
Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
Dubai, UAE
Website: www.cygnus-instruments.com
Telephone: +971 50 3459305
sales@cygnus-instruments.com
CYGNUS Instruments Inc.
Cygnus Instruments, Inc.
6900 Phillips Hwy, Suite 8
Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA.
Tel: 00 1 410 267 9771
Fax: 00 1 410 268 2013
www.cygnusinstruments.com
sales@cygnusinstruments.com
CYGNUS Singapore (S) Pty. Ltd.
63 Jalan Pemimpin
#04-01 Pemimpin Industrial Building
Singapore 577219
Tel : (+65) 6252 5909
Fax : (+65) 6251 1318
www.cygnus-instruments.sg
sales@cygnus-instruments.sg

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 9 of 117
2. Gauge Kit Contents
The DIVE gauge is supplied as a complete kit in a tough Peli®
transportation case. Everything you need to begin taking thickness
measurements is included in the kit.
1. Cygnus DIVE Gauge Body and Wrist Strap
2. Ultrasonic Probe(s) with Coiled Cable
3. Two Rechargeable Batteries
4. Membrane Couplant, 25ml bottle
5. Battery Charger and Charger Base
6. AC Mains Lead for Battery Charger
7. Ultrasonic Couplant Gel (Blue), 100ml bottle
8. Test Block 15mm (or ½”) thick in Mild Steel
9. Spare Probe Membranes
10. Membrane Key
11. Silicone Grease, 50g tube
12. USB Flash Drive with Documentation
3
13. Calibration Certificate
14. Operating Manual
3
With Data Logging Option and software

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 10 of 117
3. The DIVE Gauge
Features of the DIVE Gauge
Left Side View showing Button, Battery
& Probe Connector with Cap Fitted
Right Side View showing Button,
Battery Retaining Screw & Probe
Connector
Fitting the DIVE Gauge
The DIVE gauge can be worn on the fore-arm of the diver allowing
one hand to remain free during thickness surveys. The gauge is
secured with a tough elasticated strap with a quick release buckle,
the strap can be tightened easily using one hand and being
elasticated it will maintain its grip on the diver’s dry suit.
Probe
Connector
(Cap Fitted)
Left
Button
Battery
Probe
Connector
Right
Button
Colour
Display
Battery
Screw

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 11 of 117
The Ultrasonic Probe is attached with a coiled cable allowing the
diver to reach around structures when carrying out the survey.
When not in use the probe can be easily secured to the strap by a
loop and toggle using one hand.
Probe Securing Loop
The DIVE gauge can be worn on the right or left arm of the diver
as required. The probe can be connected into either of the two
probe sockets on the gauge body, they are both identically wired.
The other free connector can be used for the top-side RS-485 data
link, when not used a blanking plug is supplied to protect the
connector.
Right and Left Handed Probe Connections
A security lanyard is supplied that can be attached to the D ring on
the DIVE gauge then secured to a ring on the diver’s harness.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 12 of 117
Security Lanyard fitted to D ring.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 13 of 117
4. Batteries
Important Notes
The battery MUST be fitted BEFORE the DIVE gauge is
immersed into water.
The battery MUST be removed when the DIVE gauge is
no longer being used and/or stored in its Peli case.
The battery MUST NOT be removed while the DIVE
gauge is underwater.
Use in Hyperbaric Conditions
The battery contains lithium and therefore MUST NOT
be taken into a Hyperbaric Condition (IMCA D 041)
Shipping of Lithium Batteries
Please see Section 25 Shipping of Lithium-Ion Batteries on page
110
Fitting the Battery
Smear some Silicone Grease on the face of
the battery. This will help lubricate and
seal battery contacts and screw threads.
Align the battery and push fully into the
battery compartment in the side of the
DIVE gauge body. There is a locating
feature that ensures the battery is
correctly aligned before the electrical
contacts mate.
The gauge will then turn on.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 14 of 117
The battery is secured with the battery
retaining screw on the other end of the
DIVE gauge body.
Turn the battery retaining screw clockwise
to engage the screw into the battery.
Finger-tight only –the should be no gaps
between the battery screw and the body.
DO NOT use a tool to tighten
Removing the Battery
The battery must be removed after used
and when stored in the carry case.
Unscrew the battery retaining screw and
give a gentle push to push the battery out
of the DIVE gauge body.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 15 of 117
Charging the Battery
The battery must be charged using the
supplied Cygnus battery charger and base.
The battery is inserted into the charger
base taking care to align the two battery
contacts.
The light on the black charging unit will
light as follows:
Red = Fast Charge
Green = Charge Competed
The charge time for a flat battery is around
2.5 hours to 100% capacity at 25°C.
2½ Hours

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 16 of 117
5. Fitting the Ultrasonic Probe
Important –Cap Fitment
The Cap must be fitted to the socket when it is not
being used. Do not use the gauge with this socket
exposed to water.
Accidental removal of the Cap while underwater WILL
NOT cause the gauge to flood. Simply re-fit the Cap as
soon as possible.
Packing silicone grease in the connections of the
unused connector will prevent damage if Cap
accidentally removed.
Probe Socket Cap Correctly Fitted.
Connecting the Probe
The Ultrasonic Probes have a coiled
underwater cable and latching connector.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 17 of 117
The probe connector can be plugged into
either of the connectors on the DIVE
gauge body depending on which arm the
DIVE gauge is worn on.
The connector is a simple push-fit. The
white dots must be aligned for the
connectors to mate.
To release the probe connector you must
pull back the connector front part of the
body (A) as you pull the connector out of the
gauge body.
If the connector appears tight push the back
part (B) in towards the gauge while pulling
back on the front part (A).
Probe Calibration Check Message
If you connect a probe while the gauge is
turned on a message reminding you to
check the calibration will be displayed.
Press either button to continue.
A
B

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 18 of 117
Securing the Probe while Diving
You can secure the probe to the wrist strap using the loop and
toggle, the probe can be secured and released with one hand.
To secure the probe (if not already) press
the toggle and push it back towards the
gauge body to make the loop large. The
probe can then be tucked under the loop
and the toggle pressed and pulled with
finger and thumb towards the probe to
secure it.
To release the probe, press the toggle
with finger and thumb and push back
towards the gauge body. The probe can
then be un-tucked from the loop.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 19 of 117
6. Ultrasonic Probes (Transducers)
Important Notes
The gauge should only be used with ultrasonic probes
supplied by Cygnus Instruments.
Probe Types
There are two types of probe that can be supplied with the DIVE
gauge; Single and Twin Element.
Typically marine surveyors have used single element probes with
multiple echo measurement which gives reliable measurement
even through coatings.
Typically the general NDT industry has used twin element probes
with single and echo-echo measurement which can offer better
detection of corrosion defects but require more awareness and
training to avoid measurement errors.
Ideally a surveyor’s kit would contain one of each probe type
enabling any survey to be tackled with the confidence you’ll be
able to get reliable measurements whatever the condition of the
metal.
For more information see Measure Modes on page 28.
Single Element Probes
Cygnus pioneered the use of single element transducers and the
multiple echo technique. Multiple Echo measurement offers the
most reliable and accurate type of thickness measurement through
coatings.
However there are situations when getting a measurement with a
single element probe using Multiple Echo is difficult or impossible –
in these situations the twin element probe will allow thickness
measurements to continue to be taken.

Cygnus DIVE Operating Manual
M3-DIVE-M-ENG_Iss9.docx
Page 20 of 117
Twin Element Probes
Twin Element probes can be used to take thickness measurements
on both Coated and Un-Coated metals.
When measuring on Uncoated surfaces Single Echo mode can be
used. Single Echo mode will also work best when measuring Heavy
Corrosion –heavy corrosion will absorb and scatter the ultrasound
signal so there is often only enough ultrasound reflected back to
the probe to provide a single echo.
Identifying Single or Twin Element Probes
You can easily identify each type of probe by looking at the probe
face;
The Twin Element probe has two
visible sections and NO
protective membrane
The Single Element probe has a
single black face with a
protective membrane
Single
Crystal
Probe
Twin
Crystal
Probe
Table of contents
Other Cygnus Diving Instrument manuals