Many failures associated with naval surface ship TB-37 Multi-Function Towed Array Systems result from cuts to one or both Vibration Isolation Module (VIM) hoses. These towed arrays are used to locate, identify, and help engage undersea threats. METSS is developing novel chemical additives and processes for the existing neoprene rubber to dramatically improve cut resistance of the outer jacket. Improving the cut-resistance of the VIM will materially improve operational readiness and is projected to save the Navy an estimated $3M/year.
The Marine Corps Systems Command requires an integrated protective solution for radio antennas used by dismounted USMC Radio Operators. Long radio antennas are mission critical assets; however, if contacted with low-hanging power distribution lines (common in war-torn regions), lethal amounts of electricity can be imparted to the operator and radio. METSS intends to provide high-voltage antenna protection of 35KV RMS, while providing equivalent radiation pattern omnidirectional gain across frequencies between 2 and 88 MHz. Solutions will enable retrofit to existing antennas in the field or while in depot. The added protection will not cue enemies, snag, or fail in harsh conditions. METSS’s solution will be light, easy-to-use, and support whip and blade antennas for the Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS).
The Navy’s 2075-TH hydraulic fluid, which is used for external hydraulic (HEX) system motion control, is covered under MIL-PRF-17672. This legacy fluid is significantly challenged by the evolution in submarine force inter-deployment training cycles, higher Fleet operating tempo, and changes in maintenance planning philosophy that require the motion control fluids work longer and harder in the undersea environment. The reduced performance of the 2075-TH HEX fluid has led to many instances of component failures critical to operational submarines. METSS’s new synthetic fluid formulation (2075-S) will demonstrate significant improvements in fluid oxidative resistance, additive stability, and tolerance to seawater contamination in extended service life operations. The new synthetic product will improve in-service operability and reliability, while extending product service life and reducing overall maintenance costs.
When submarines deploy the TB-16/TB-34 towed array sonar system using the Lightweight Tow Cable (LWTC), it has a propensity to buckle rendering the towed array out of commission. METSS is developing a new outer jacket for the LWTC by designing a high density polyethylene (HDPE) resin system that will improve the LWTC axial compression strength, improve cut resistance to longline fishing lines, and improve the cut resistance of the submarine’s torpedo guide wire. METSS is leveraging commercially available HDPE base resins and carbon black masterbatch materials to streamline technology transition process making them compatible with current manufacturing process.
METSS is a contract R&D company with extensive experience in formulating polyurethanes and other rubber materials. METSS has developed an Advanced Vacuum Bagging Technology that is a spray applied, non-silicone vacuum bag for the compaction of laminates during composite construction. The result of spray application of the rubber is the production of a vacuum bag that is the same shape as the part in the mold. This eliminates bridging, gaps and air leaks caused by hand application of the vacuum bag. The vacuum bag is designed for repeated cycles in autoclave curing to 375 �F, for high performance epoxy and bismaleimide carbon fiber composite parts. In addition, the Advanced Vacuum Bag will reduce cost of vacuum bagging by reducing the time of the skilled manual labor involved with laying a conventional vacuum bag. This technology has been shown to reduce material costs and labor for an overall cost savings of 10 - 25%. METSS is seeking the expertise of a process development group that can provide guidance as to the application and performance of the polyurethane.
