Virginia Class Submarine (VCS) Shaft Repair

Project Number (JTEG Assigned) NS-09-0002
Project Title VIRGINIA Class Submarine (VCS) SHAFT REPAIR
Service NAVSEA
Command NAVSEA / Naval Shipyards
Implementation Depot PHNSY&IMF
Project Lead Kurt Doehnert, SEA 04XP, kurt.doehnert@navy.mil
TI Goals Supported P-1, S-2, C-3
Focus Area Metal Working
Platform General Ship
Platform Specific Submarine; VIRGINIA Class; Propulsion Shaft
Implemented Technology Laser
Problem Definition Currently, no repair process for the main shafts
for VCS has been developed.
Proposed Solution Laser cladding provides a viable solution to the issues of clad metal dilution and heat input in the current Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) based processes. The objectives of the VCS Shaft Repair program are to develop laser cladding parameters for both original manufacture and repair and refurbishment of VCS main propulsion shafts.
Expected Result The laser cladding parameters, procedures, and tooling designs developed by iMAST will be transferred to Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. iMAST, PHNSY, and PNSY will work collaboratively to ensure that the cladding parameters and procedures developed by iMAS
Benefits In addition to providing a currently unavailable repair capability for the VCS main shafts, the development of laser cladding based repair procedures will also improve the quality of the refurbished shafts and significantly minimize the time required for
Unfunded Requirement
Start FY FY09
Completion Date
WIP Yes
Implemented No
Comments MANTECH Project #S2272