Simplified Hybrid Stanchions and Lightweight Composite Concrete for CLF Ships

KaZaK Composites proposes to develop and implement improvements to current CLF dunnage systems by designing and prototyping a cost effective adjustable stanchion and lightweight concrete. Key requirements for a redesigned dunnage system include elimination of wood dunnage, supporting structural loads, significant reduction in total ownership costs, easily repaired system components, light weight, ease of use and high toughness. Adjustable stanchions will be designed to meet and/or exceed existing load requirements, reduce stanchion weight, withstand environmental conditions (hot, cold, wet), take rough handling and meet fire performance specifications. Lightweight concrete will be formulated for use between diagonal and athwart ship steel rail CLF dunnage systems. Proposed dunnage systems must not impact restraint systems/operations or require costly ship modifications. By engaging CLF ship dunnage systems, KCI and the Navy are insured that developing designs will be compatible, effective and where applicable interchangeable. In Phase I KCI will perform extensive design trade studies, including finite element analysis of critical load conditions, followed by fabrication and testing of key sections of dunnage hardware to validate performance predictions. Composite parts will be tailored for fabrication via the pultrusion process, the least costly manufacturing technology for constant cross section shapes.