NCSX Procurement Update of 3/24/05

1. MCWF procurement

• The C1 casting has arrived back at MetalTek following radiography. The results are under evaluation. It is expected to be shipped to Major Tool next week for machining.
  

• The flow solidification modeling of the Type C pattern continues. They are close to convergence.
  

• Lawton reports that work on the A pattern has been proceeding very well and on track for completion by the end of this month. The modeling is complete and they have begun modeling the B pattern.
  

• Major Tool’s practice machining on the prototype has yielded positive results that they expect to help improve productivity. For example, experimental machining on the flange face has shown that MTM can go to a larger cutter, so they are purchasing an 8” cutter (as opposed to the 6” originally planned).  Experimental cuts on the winding contour have also gone well.
  

2. VVSA procurement

• Major Tool continues to machine, deburr, and inspect the dies, and are fabricating the inspection gages.
  

• Engineering for 120-degree weld fixtures and port extension fixtures continues.
  

• Pressing of panels is expected to begin next week.
  

Hutch Neilson