PORTSMOUTH, Virginia –
Norfolk Naval Shipyard's (NNSY) Rapid Prototype Lab (RPL) has developed a molded case breaker assembly test stand that creates a safer environment for electrical mechanics.
In the electrical world, the molded case circuit breaker and the drive motor mechanism fit together as a single piece in the vertical position while mounted on the ship. The device serves as an automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect against damage, overload, or short circuiting. During its testing and configuration after servicing, a team of two workers was needed to operate the device in order to ensure it worked properly. They would complete the work hands-on, which ate up man-hours and presented a possibility of electrical shock.
Electrical Mechanic Nolan Lloyd felt there was a safer, more efficient way to get the job done. He reached out to the shipyard's Nuclear Electrical Group Trades Manager, Chris Meade, and shared his concerns.
"Hearing Lloyd's concerns, I knew I wanted to give this the attention it deserved. Safety is number one for us here at the shipyard, and I wanted to be sure to take care of my people in any way I could," said Meade. "I read about the RPL in the [shipyard's monthly magazine] Service to the Fleet, and I had a supervisor who worked with them previously on an assignment. I figured they would be the best place to start."
Kenneth Kinstler from the RPL, which develops new and improved tooling based on employee suggestions and input, came to the shop to discuss what they needed and to see the item in question.
"I was thoroughly impressed with his response to our call," said Meade. "As soon as he heard what we needed, he went straight to work. Within a week, he had a prototype ready for us to test."
Kinstler created the molded case breaker assembly test stand from T-slot aluminum extrusions and metal, resulting in a sturdy case that allowed the molded case circuit breaker and drive motor mechanism to be positioned together vertically. The work could then be safely executed by one mechanic, reducing the man-hours needed and ensuring a safer process for the worker.
The best part about this partnership is that it was a team effort," said Meade. "Kinstler made sure to include us every step of the way and hear our input on the design to ensure we got the best product. The creativity and response from the RPL is phenomenal."
Lloyd added, "Within two-and-a-half months, we had a finished product. It was a great effort on the RPL's part, and I am happy and appreciative to have something now that helps makes our job safer. It will be a significant improvement, and I thank everyone involved for making it possible."
"I always enjoy making something that makes them happy and feel appreciated," said Kinstler. "I was able to see what they needed and made that vision come to life. I'm glad we could work together to make a great product that will help make the shipyard a better place."
This prototype is the latest in a series of NNSY efforts to improve the process of servicing and testing ship's service breakers. The RPL develops these new technologies to aid the shipyard worker in providing a safer and more efficient alternative. In addition, the lab shares the completed projects beyond the gates to the Navy's other public shipyards in an effort to work hand-in-hand in support of the Navy's mission.
- NAVSEA -