3 l 15 l 2021
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
Photo by Matt Hildreth
Embracing Additive Manufacturing Newport News Shipbuilding’s Rubber Shop is taking a leap into the 21st century, using additive manufacturing – or 3D printing – to make shipbuilders’ jobs safer and more efficient.
used existing 3D printers at NNS and a specialized resin capable of withstanding the heat generated from injection molding to print a series of test molds to validate that this could work.
Shipbuilders in the shop have traditionally used metal molds for the injection molding process to create waterproof plug ends on cable assemblies. These metal molds are heavy, expensive and make it impossible to identify defects such as air bubbles or cable movement during the injection process.
“These molds proved the team could identify multiple defects at the time of injection molding,” said Industrial Engineer Anthony Ugoletti.
A few months ago, shipbuilders asked if there was a way to see what’s happening inside the molds during the injection process to help reduce rework and improve turnaround time. That’s when Industrial Engineering got involved and found that 3D printing is commonly used by injection molding manufactures. The team
With the support of Electrical, Sheet Metal, Hangar and Pad (ESHP) management, the shop purchased two 3D printers, which allowed shipbuilders to print the semitransparent molds in house. The 3D-printed molds are manufactured for about $100 each and take approximately 16 to 20 machine hours to produce. A metal mold can cost between $3,000 and $7,000 each. It can take six months to a year to secure funding and manufacture a metal mold. CONTINUED ON PG 2
COVID-19 Vaccinations Continue at NNS Between Feb. 5 and March 12, more than 3,000 vaccinations were administered at Newport News Shipbuilding’s COVID-19 vaccination site at the old Apprentice School gym (Bldg. 601), located off Marshall Avenue. Donta Sharpe (X82) oversees vaccination operations at the site. He said more than 300 individuals have been fully vaccinated by QuadMed medical staff, meaning they have received first and second shots.
NNS is receiving Moderna and Pfizer vaccines, which both require two doses. The company may receive the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine in the future.
last year. “I didn’t want to get it again,” he said. “I thought it was a good idea to get the shot. It helps protect your family and friends.”
“I chose to get the vaccination because I think it’s important for our safety and our health,” said Trina Garrett (E84). “Plus I miss being able to travel and see my friends and family safely.”
All NNS employees are now eligible to sign up for an on-site vaccination appointment via MyNNS. Shipbuilders may also call the COVID Hotline at 1-844-243-8749, option 6, to register. See the insert for more information.
Benjamin Hulvey (X43) had COVID-19