Bolting technologies for high-performance naval systems
Challenge: Main reduction gears experience torque fluctuations and shock loads that can cause misalignment and accelerated wear.
Solution: Superbolt® tensioners provide uniform preload across snubber mounts, maintaining gear alignment and reducing stress concentrations. Their vibration-resistant design prevents loosening under cyclic loads, extending gear life and improving propulsion efficiency.
Challenge: Turning gear systems in DDG-1000-class destroyers require precise alignment and secure fastening of rotating machinery. These components are exposed to significant thermal expansion and mechanical stress during startup, shutdown, and operational cycling.
Solution: Superbolt expansion bolts offer a robust solution for achieving and maintaining precise alignment in rotating equipment. Their multi-jackbolt tensioning system allows for controlled, uniform preload across the bolt, ensuring a tight fit without the need for large torque tools. This design minimizes the risk of shaft misalignment, vibration-related failures, and uneven stress distribution – especially critical in propulsion systems where reliability and performance are paramount.
Challenge: Weapons elevators undergo frequent cycling and must support heavy loads with minimal downtime.
Solution: Superbolt tensioners offer compact, high-strength bolting that maintains preload under dynamic loading. Their modular design allows for easy inspection and maintenance, supporting high operational tempo without compromising safety.
Challenge: Steering systems are critical to maneuverability and must maintain secure connections under vibration and shock.
Solution: Superbolt tensioners provide high preload and vibration resistance, ensuring reliable performance of steering gear foundations and linkages. Their ease of installation supports rapid maintenance in confined compartments.
Challenge: Missile launch systems require high-strength, corrosion-resistant bolting to ensure safety and reliability.
Solution: Superbolt tensioners made from corrosion-resistant alloys deliver consistent preload and long-term durability in harsh marine environments. Their tamper-resistant design supports secure integration of mission-critical weapon systems.
Challenge: Onboard generators must be securely mounted to prevent vibration transmission and structural fatigue.
Solution: Boltight® hydraulic tensioners provide fast, uniform preload across foundation bolts, improving vibration isolation and structural stability. This enhances generator performance and reduces wear on surrounding components.
Challenge: Most vessels carry auxiliary equipment or countermeasures mounted both internally and externally, which must remain securely in place until needed.
Solution: Nord-Lock® wedge-locking washers, prevent bolted connection from loosening, reducing the risk of equipment failure and ensuring critical systems are ready when required.