NDT.net | December 2004, Vol. 9 No.12 |
Feasible technologies for NDE of foam
NTIAC has been asked to circulate the attached Request For Information (RFI) for NDE of foam. Here's a brief synopsis:
IntroductionThe NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC) has performed a Technical Review of the Space Shuttle External Tank (ET)thermal protection system (TPS)Manufacturing Program and provided several findings detailing inadequate use of nondestructive evaluation (NDE)in the manufacture of the ET TPS systems.As a result of these findings,the Review Committee recommends expanding efforts to utilize NDE methods that can be demonstrated to detect,locate,and measure flaws in the foam insulation that will assist in the identification of the potential hazard to all critical areas to eliminate critical debris for Return to Flight (RTF),and beyond.The application of quantitative NDE methods which can provide quality assurance to the as applied foam is the highest priority for RTF. The use of in-process monitoring during the manufacturing operations is also of interest since it may allow defects to be found and repaired as they occur,eliminating significant time and effort repairing critical flaws after processing.It is important to pursue potential NDE techniques that can support design or process optimization of the foam and can provide real-time and in situ monitoring and damage characterization for structural durability and life prediction.Lastly, field portable NDE techniques are desired for evaluating post-manufacturing concerns and field installed foam.Scope of ActivityIn order to facilitate the development of NDE methods meeting the needs of the ET TPS Program,it is requested that interested organizations from industry,academia,and government provide a 500 word abstract describing potentially feasible technologies for NDE of foam. Abstracts will be evaluated and acceptable submittals will be requested to demonstrate current capabilities on samples with known flaws. NASA can provide funding to cover costs incurred in performing the demonstration if needed,and proposals for developmental funding to improve the level of technology readiness will be evaluated by NASA.Desired Capabilities for Potential ET TPS NDE SystemsDefect Detection RequirementsEvaluation Panel MembershipPotential offerors should understand that government and contractor technical expertise will participate in the evaluations of the proposed NDE techniques.All members of the evaluation team will be bound by appropriate non-disclosure agreements to protect proprietary and source- selection information.For further information contact:James L.Walker,NASA /MSFCEM20 Marshall Space Flight Center,AL 35812 256-961-1784 • 256--544-0212 fax james.l.walker@nasa.gov Please send submissions by COB December 15,2004. © NDT.net |