The National Shipbuilding Research Program, 1990 Ship Production Symposium, Paper No. 5B-2: Shipboard Aluminum/Steel Welded Transition Joints Evaluation and Improvements
Abstract
Aluminum to steel explosion welded transition joints are used to attach aluminum superstructures to steel hulls. Transition joint bond separation sometimes occurs during ship construction. Ingalls Shipbuilding conducted a long term study to determine causes and corrective action for these separations. The aluminum/steel transition joints are manufactured by the explosion bonding process and tested in accordance with MIL-J-24445. Traditional transition joints consist of alloyed aluminum bonded to mild steel with an interlayer of low alloy aluminum. The study reviewed transition joint manufacture and quality testing required by the material specification, reviewed the adequacy of design guidelines and production practices, and considered cost effective methods for corrective action. Modifications in product design and testing, installation design and shipyard production practices can improve reliability. The most important result of this study was development of material with improved Properties. This paper relates the study procedure, findings and recommendations so that transition joint separations can be avoided on future installations. This information is useful for designers and transition joint users.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA454245
Entities
People
- Ed Gaines
- John Banker