NCSX Procurement Update of 7/14/05

1. MCWF procurement

• Machining of the C-1 casting (MCWF#1) continues at Major Tool. They flipped the part to the second side and are continuing with the 3-axis machining.  They tentatively forecast moving to 5-axis machining July 22. It was to have been July 8, so they are approximately 2 weeks behind. They are working on having an updated bottoms-up estimate by this Friday.
  

• The C-2 casting (MCWF#2) is in rough machining and proceeding in accordance with their predictions. It is well ahead of the C-1 pace at this stage.
  

• The issues with the laser scanning data for the A-1 (MCWF#3) casting have been resolved, making it possible now to assess the part. The data show an under tolerance condition over a large area of the shell wall, for example 1.18 in. thickness versus 1.375 +0/-0.125 specified. Weld build-up would be time-consuming and risky. We are evaluating whether we can live with it, while the EIO team is still working to understand the cause. Processing is on-hold pending decisions.
  

• The C-3 (MCWF#4) casting is undergoing radiographic testing this week.
  

• The C-4 (MCWF#5) casting poured on July 12.
  

• Fabrication and assembly of the Type B pattern (the third and last) continues.
  

2. VVSA procurement

• Fabrication of the first 60-degree shell sector (consisting of 10 panels) continues.
  

• Panel preparation for the second 60-degree sector is in progress.
  

• PPPL technical representative Mike Viola visited Major Tool and reported that the product quality is excellent, but the work continues to lag behind schedule. One reason appears to be a shortage of skilled personnel for the panel forming operations. They are trying to make more people available. Viola discussed the issue with Major Tool managers at several different  levels.
  

Hutch Neilson