Transducer Technology: Aluminum Boats And Sonar Performance

Shoot-through transducers are used by people who want to find out what is beneath their boats. They are normally placed in the water outside the boat, but some people have experimented with placing them inside the hull. While some people claim that shoot-through transducers will not work with aluminium boats, others claim that they will, as long as there are no air bubbles. Special transducers are also available for aluminium boats.

Shoot-through transducers can be used in aluminium boats, but they are not as effective as transom-mounted transducers

Firstly, the signal quality of a shoot-through transducer in an aluminium boat can be significantly reduced. The aluminium construction can weaken the signal, making it more difficult to detect objects in the water. This can be a particular issue when trying to detect smaller objects, such as baitfish, or when using side-imaging or down-imaging technology, which require higher-resolution signals.

Secondly, the installation process of a shoot-through transducer in an aluminium boat can be challenging. It is crucial to ensure that there are no air bubbles or pockets under the transducer, as these can further degrade the signal quality. This can be a tedious and time-consuming process, requiring careful epoxy application or the use of alternative adhesives like silicone or marine goop.

Additionally, the flexibility of the aluminium hull can pose issues. Over time, the hull may flex and separate from the transducer, causing it to pop loose. This problem is especially prevalent in aluminium boats used for hunting or navigating over obstacles like beaver dams or cypress knees.

To address this issue, some people have suggested using flexible adhesives like PVC glue or Marine Goop, which can move with the hull and potentially reduce the risk of the transducer popping loose. However, even with these measures, the signal quality may still be inferior to that of a transom-mounted transducer.

For those who prefer a more permanent solution, epoxy is commonly used to mount transducers. While epoxy provides a strong bond, it lacks flexibility, which can lead to the transducer popping loose over time. It is essential to test the transducer's performance before final installation and ensure there are no air bubbles or obstructions that could impact its effectiveness.

In conclusion, while it is possible to use a shoot-through transducer in an aluminium boat, it is important to recognise that the signal quality and installation process may not be optimal. For those seeking the best performance, a transom-mounted transducer is generally the preferred option.

Transom-mounted transducers can be more durable than shoot-through transducers

Transom-mounted transducers offer several advantages over shoot-through transducers, making them a more durable and reliable option. Firstly, they are generally easier to install and maintain. With transom-mounted transducers, there is no need to drill holes in the hull, which can be a complex and anxiety-inducing task for boat owners. Instead, they can be securely attached to the transom, often with epoxy or silicone, providing a strong and long-lasting hold.

Another benefit of transom-mounted transducers is their performance. They are known to provide more accurate and sensitive readings compared to shoot-through transducers. This is because the hull can cause a frequency shift in the outgoing signal of shoot-through transducers, reducing their sensitivity. Transom-mounted transducers do not have this issue, as they send and receive signals directly through the water without interference from the hull. This increased sensitivity is crucial for fishermen, as it allows them to detect objects in the water column more effectively.

Additionally, transom-mounted transducers are less likely to experience high-speed turbulence issues. When a boat travels at high speeds, shoot-through transducers may encounter air bubbles or air pockets, which can disrupt their readings. Transom-mounted transducers, on the other hand, are typically placed below the waterline, reducing the impact of air turbulence and providing more consistent readings, even at higher speeds.

Furthermore, transom-mounted transducers offer greater versatility in terms of mounting options. They can be adjusted for angle and height to optimise their performance. This adjustability also allows them to be used on different boats with varying transom sizes and shapes. In contrast, shoot-through transducers are more limited in their placement options, as they need to be positioned in specific areas of the hull to function effectively.

While transom-mounted transducers offer these advantages, it is important to note that they may not be suitable for all boats. Sailboats, for example, often have better places to mount through-hull transducers. Additionally, transom-mounted transducers may not be as aesthetically pleasing to some boat owners. However, for those prioritising durability and performance, transom-mounted transducers are a more robust and reliable choice.

Shoot-through transducers can be epoxied into aluminium hulls, but this may not be a permanent solution

To optimise the signal transmission, it is crucial to minimise air bubbles in the epoxy and ensure proper mounting. Any air bubbles trapped in the epoxy or under the transducer can interfere with depth readings. Therefore, a slow-cure epoxy is recommended to allow time for air bubbles to escape during the curing process. Additionally, the transducer should be mounted directly to the hull below the water level, and the area should be thoroughly sanded to expose and remove any air bubbles in the aluminium.

Before permanently installing the transducer, it is advisable to test its performance temporarily. This can be done by creating a pool of water in the hull, placing the transducer in it, and operating the device to check if it is functioning as expected. It may be necessary to adjust the sensitivity settings to compensate for sound waves travelling through the hull.

While some people have reported success with this method, others have encountered challenges. One issue to consider is the difficulty of removing the transducer if it is epoxied directly to the hull. Removing the transducer may damage it, and the epoxy could be challenging to detach from the aluminium. Therefore, it is essential to test thoroughly and be confident in the transducer's performance before committing to a permanent installation.

In conclusion, while it is possible to epoxy a shoot-through transducer to an aluminium hull, it may not be a permanent solution due to potential signal quality issues and the challenges associated with removal. Thorough testing and careful installation are crucial to achieving optimal performance.

Silicone can be used as an alternative to epoxy for a less permanent installation

Shoot-through transducers can be used with aluminium boats. However, it is known that they reduce the effectiveness of the transducer and weaken the signal. For a more permanent installation, epoxy is often used to set the transducer in place. However, silicone can be used as an alternative for a less permanent installation.

Silicone is a suitable adhesive for installing transducers in boats. It is important to ensure that the surface is clean and dry before application, and to use a heavy blob of the caulking to create a strong bond. Silicone is easier to remove than epoxy, making it a good option for those who may need to adjust or replace their transducer in the future. It is also a good option for those who are unsure about the best location for their transducer, as it allows for some flexibility.

When using silicone, it is crucial to ensure that there are no air bubbles between the transducer and the hull, as this can cause interference. One way to achieve this is to use a slow-cure epoxy, which generates less heat and is less likely to form spider cracking. Another option is to use electrical putty, which has been found to work well for shoot-through transducers.

Some people prefer to use epoxy for a more permanent installation, as it creates a rigid bond that can last a lifetime. However, others have found that silicone works just as well and is easier to remove if needed. It is important to use a high-quality silicone and to prepare the surface properly to ensure the best results.

Overall, silicone is a viable alternative to epoxy for installing transducers in aluminium boats. It offers the advantage of being less permanent and easier to remove, while still providing a strong and durable bond.

The Alumaducer is a transducer designed specifically for aluminium boats

While some people have reported success using standard transducers with aluminium boats, this method can result in reduced signal strength and loss of sensitivity. The Alumaducer, on the other hand, does not suffer from sensitivity loss. It is designed to be epoxied into the hull of the boat, providing a permanent solution.

For those who want a less permanent solution, the Alumaducer can also be mounted with silicone. This method is easier to deal with if there are any bubble issues. However, it is important to ensure that there are no air bubbles below the transducer, as this can affect its performance.

The Alumaducer is a specialised product that fills a specific need for aluminium boat owners. While it may be more costly than other transducers, it offers a reliable and effective solution for those looking to use a transducer with their aluminium boat.

Frequently asked questions