Dual Use Analysis of an Integrated Surface Treatment System

The Integrated Surface Treatment System (ISTS) Plasma Spray CNC Workcell was originally designed to repair/refurbish a broad range of common worn parts so that they could be returned to service with a minimum of specialized operator skill or ancillary tooling. The concept holds great promise for both the US Government and for commercial industry. However, even though the thermal spray process is routinely used by Government and commercial organizations, the ISTS has yet to be embraced by the US Navy (the sponsor of the original ISTS effort) or by commercial industry. Phase 1 will assess the market needs for the ISTS in the repair and refurbishment of critical worn components based on examples from government and from private industry. It will evaluate the existing performance envelope of the ISTS (including the stand-alone process planner) and explore and recommend additional developments necessary to improve ease of use, productivity, and quality of repair. The cost/value relationship of the ISTS to candidate repair and refurbishment applications will also be detailed.