NCMS Project #: 142313
Problem: Rigid wall aluminum and steel structures need nearly constant maintenance to avoid rust, corrosion, and to withstand additional damage such as scratches, dents, and scrapes from daily use. In the U.S. Army, rigid wall shelters are used as operating room shelters. These shelters are currently made of steel and aluminum and have high maintenance and sustainment costs across their lifecycle.
Benefit: This project will serve as an example to commercial industry in how using composite materials in rigid wall construction can reduce maintenance and sustainment costs for these items. Tthe Army will utilize the lessons learned from this initiative to make informed decisions on how to apply the lessons learned to help improve maintenance and sustainment of mobile shelters and storage containers across the Army and other Department of Defense (DOD) organizations.
Solution/Approach: The intent of Phase I was to advance the state of new composite technologies and design processes to improve the functionality and lifecycle of rigid wall shelters. Phase II will address non-recurring production engineering costs to reduce the overall manufacturing impacts, initializing low-rate early production.
Impact on Warfighter:
- Enhance warfighter safety and operational readiness
- Improve structural performance, maintainability, and affordability
- Reduce repair and fuel costs
- Increase equipment lifespan and availability
DOD Participation:
- U.S. Army Medical Command (MEDCOM)
- U.S. Marine Corps (observer)
- U.S. Navy (observer)
Industry Participation:
- Core Composites
- NCMS
Benefit Area(s):
- Cost savings
- Mx avoidance & reliability
- Mx management improvement
- Improved readiness
- Durability
- Reliability improvement
- Lightweighting
Mx Focus Area:
- Coatings and Corrosion Prevention
