Magnetic Couplings

Problem: Alignment between motors and their associated pumps are critical. Current couplings require extensive maintenance and precise alignment. Misalignment causes premature failure of motor/pump bearings and seals.

Solution: Commercially available magnetic couplings, which isolate the pump and motor, eliminates the need for precise alignment, significantly increases system reliability and reduces maintenance time and materials.

Benefits

Estimated Navy Cost Avoidance:

Minimum annual:         $6,260 K

Minimum 15 Year:       $93,900K

Fleet Impact: Use of magnetic couplings will significantly reduce the required maintenance on associated pump/motor bearings and seals. On those occasions when coupling is required, alignment will be quick, easy and will use no hazardous materials.

Status: Ongoing

A contract has been awarded  to  NSWSC/Philadelphia. They have started efforts to procure the necessary test articles and to develop installation instructions and drawings. Later this year, they will install magnetic couplings in various application on ships of the CVN-68 class Aircraft Carriers. These couplings will be subjected to shipboard operations for a suitable period of time.

Applications:

All motor/pump systems on all classes of ships.