Estimated Navy Cost Avoidance:
| This is a safety issue and no quantifiable cost savings can be identified. However, uncontrolled hatch drops can cause serious damage to seals and hinges. |
| The Gas Springs work very well on raised-coaming hatches but they have not been successful on flush-deck hatches that open to greater than 90 degrees. NSWC/Philadelphia will notify the Navy establishment and ship designers to ensure that they are aware of the system in future designs. |
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Problem:
| Watertight hatches often require two persons to open and secure in the upright position due to their weight. Springs used on some of these hatches contain Berylium (a HazMat) and are prone to breakage. Numerous injuries occur annually when hatches accidentally drop on people. |
Solution:
| Commercial gas cylinders (such as on car hoods and hatches) are available that meet the Navy’s requirements.Specifications would be developed and testing conducted to confirm reliability. |
Fleet Impact:
| Significant reduction in injuries caused by falling hatches. Undefined reduction in maintenance costs. Reduction in number of people required to raise and lower hatches. |
Applications:
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