U.S. Naval Research Laboratory’s (NRL) Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering engineers install an advanced Thermal Spray Nonskid (TSN) coating system on the USS Kearsarge, with the new Thermal Spray Robotic Vehicle (TSRV), to further support U.S. Navy mission readiness, safety, and a well-equipped Fleet.
“The successful application of TSN using the TSRV on the USS Kearsarge marks a significant milestone in the Navy's efforts to modernize its Fleet and improve operational readiness,” said NRL Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering Branch Head Ted Lemieux. “NRL is committed to developing innovative technologies that support the Navy's mission and enhance the safety and well-being of our Sailors.”
The USS Kearsarge (LHD-3), a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, is under routine maintenance at the British Aerospace (BAE) Shipyard in Norfolk, Va. During her overhaul, the vessel will undergo multiple repairs and upgrades, including TSN installation for the first time.
“The TSN flight deck nonskid coating system, transitioned to the Navy by NRL, offers significant advantages over traditional nonskid coatings,” said NRL Materials Research Engineer Jimmy Tagert. “The standard epoxy nonskid requires replacement every 2 to 3 years, whereas TSN has proven to last 10 years. Therefore, a ship with TSN does not have to include nonskid replacement for 3-4 repair cycles, reducing the need for shipyard resources.” Additionally, TSN is a metallized coating that can withstand the harsh shipboard environmental conditions and enhance the long-term corrosion protection of the structure.
The TSRV, a state-of-the-art robotic vehicle, automates the process of applying TSN, further improving efficiency and reducing costs. The TSRV combines multiple steps of the TSN application process, from deck preparation to spraying the nonskid solution.
“Combining multiple steps of the TSN application process into a single unit helps us get the work done 2 to 3 times faster, providing schedule relief during complex maintenance availabilities,” Tagert said. “The efficiency demonstrated by this project ensures stability and preparedness for the Department of the Navy. The TSRV is a great example of how robotics and automation can be deployed to accomplish maintenance tasks during ship repair availabilities.”
"The TSN and TSRV project has the potential to revolutionize ship maintenance," said Tim Wise, Senior Engineer with Precise Systems and NRL contractor. "By reducing maintenance time and costs, we can ensure that our ships are always ready for deployment.”
TSN and TSRV technology provides enhanced durability, improved safety, increased efficiency and environmental benefits all while reducing life cycle maintenance costs and supporting the Navy’s mission of operational readiness.
NRL strives to continue enhancing this technology to support TSN operations for the Navy. Mr. Tagert and his team intend to shape the TSN application process to expand nonskid technology to all ship classes, including smaller vessels, to further support the Navy’s operational readiness.
The NRL Center for Corrosion Science and Engineering continues to address challenges in corrosion and marine fouling. The Marine Corrosion Facility is located in Key West, Fla. residing in an unparalleled site for natural seawater exposure testing and marine related materials evaluation.
About the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory
NRL is a scientific and engineering command dedicated to research that drives innovative advances for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps from the seafloor to space and in the information domain. NRL is located in Washington, D.C. with major field sites in Stennis Space Center, Mississippi; Key West, Florida; Monterey, California, and employs approximately 3,000 civilian scientists, engineers and support personnel.
For more information, contact NRL Corporate Communications at (202) 480-3746 or
nrlpao@us.navy.mil.