An in-depth analysis of the wreckage from the Titan submersible has shed light on the catastrophic failure that occurred during its ill-fated dive. The investigation revealed that the carbon fiber hull of the submersible separated into multiple layers, a significant issue associated with this type of material, as evidenced by images showing the debris scattered across the ocean floor.
During a public hearing held by the US Coast Guard, investigators presented this evidence regarding the submersible’s sudden implosion in June 2023, which tragically resulted in the loss of all five individuals aboard. While it remains uncertain if the hull was the initial component to fail, investigators are focusing closely on this aspect as they seek to understand the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
The Titan submersible, designed for deep-sea exploration, suffered a catastrophic failure less than two hours into its descent toward the Titanic wreck site. Its hull consisted of numerous layers of carbon fiber and resin, materials which are typically not favored for deep-sea submersibles due to their instability under extreme pressure; traditionally, metals such as titanium are used for these applications.
Don Kramer, an engineer with the National Transportation Safety Board, presented a series of images showcasing fragments of the hull found on the seabed. He explained that signs of delamination—where the carbon fiber layers had separated—were present in several pieces. Other sections displayed cracked material. However, it was noted that the exact relationship between hull damage and the implosion is still under investigation.
Kramer detailed that his team examined remnants from Titan’s construction, identifying structural defects such as separated carbon fiber layers, wrinkles, voids, and gaps. These irregularities could impact the hull’s integrity and performance under the extreme underwater conditions.
Furthermore, the US Coast Guard was informed about a loud noise heard during a dive a year prior to the incident, which might have compromised the sub’s structural integrity. Passengers described this event, occurring as the sub was ascending after a previous dive, as an “alarming sonic event.” OceanGate’s CEO initially suggested it was caused by the sub shifting within its metal frame. However, a new analysis of sensor data indicates that the noise could have indicated a significant alteration to the hull’s material properties, potentially affecting the sub’s ability to withstand deep-sea pressures.
Kramer also highlighted additional design flaws, including the viewport window not being rated for the extreme depths encountered during the Titanic dive and the hull’s unique shape, which may have exacerbated pressure distribution issues. This comprehensive investigation aims to prevent future tragedies in the world of deep-sea exploration.
