What's Happening?
Engineers at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) are employing additive manufacturing to redesign and produce an upgraded component for the Boiler Combustion Monitoring System (BCMS) used on Navy steam-powered ships. This
effort aims to enhance the reliability of equipment that helps Sailors operate propulsion boilers safely. The component, known as the wallbox, allows a furnace camera lens tube and inspection light to pass into a boiler furnace while the camera and light source remain outside. The existing wallbox is obsolete, prompting engineers to use additive manufacturing to produce a replacement and improve the design. The BCMS is installed on propulsion boilers aboard the Navy's Wasp-class amphibious assault ships and USS Blue Ridge, providing operators with video imaging and illumination inside the boiler furnace.
Why It's Important?
The use of additive manufacturing in this project addresses supply challenges while improving system performance, which is essential for sustaining legacy platforms and ensuring the fleet has reliable equipment. The redesigned wallbox increases the cooling-air gap to improve airflow and heat dissipation, using Inconel, a nickel-based alloy, for improved strength and heat resistance. These improvements are expected to increase durability and extend the component's service life. By replacing an obsolete component and evaluating design improvements, NSWCPD engineers support the continued operation of steam propulsion systems across the fleet, ensuring the Navy's operational readiness and safety.
