Advanced Lightweight Ramps for LCAC

A feasibility study and preliminary design shall be developed for an Advanced Lightweight Ramp (ALR) for LCAC made from composite materials. These materials and construction forms such as sandwich structure have demonstrated proven weight savings in many applications and will not corrode in a marine environment. The Navy is increasingly moving toward shipboard composite structures on new ships like DDX and LCS based on the need for topside weight and signature reduction. The preferred manufacturing process for such marine applications is VARTM based on the ability to mold very large parts with good mechanical properties, consistency and low cost. The ALR design offers several significant benefits, the most important being estimated LCAC weight saving of 1,575 lb or 25 percent of the present aluminum Bow and Stern ramps. The composite design does not corrode in a marine environment, reducing current maintenance downtime and cost. Made as one molded unit via the VARTM process, the ALR design minimizes parts count, assembly labor and total ramp acquisition cost. Under the program detailed Bow and Stern ramp designs shall be developed, supported by analysis. Weight and cost projections shall be prepared, as well a standard repair method to address likely service damage. (P-040181)