NCSX Procurement Update of 5/18/05

1. MCWF procurement

• Machining of the C-1 casting (MCWF#1) is progressing well. The rough machining down to 0.25-in. stock envelope is nearing completion, in preparation for cutting the poloidal break.
  

• Processing of the C-2 casting (MCWF#2)  continues at MetalTek. Dimensional inspection was completed last week. The part was shipped out for X-ray.
  

• Preparations for pouring the A-1 (MCWF#3) casting continue at MetalTek. The pour date was again re-scheduled, and is now set to pour this week. From the foundry perspective, most of the challenges with the A casting are related to set-up of the pattern. The construction of the flask (the steel structure they build the mold in) required more time and engineering than expected. Preparations for pouring the C-3 (MCWF#4) have started.
  

• Solidification modeling for the B pattern (the last one) is progressing well.
  

• A project delegation is making plans to visit MetalTek on May 25-26 to discuss QA documentation and materials testing issues.
  

2. VVSA procurement

• Fabrication of the inspection gages is complete.
  

• Fabrication of panels and the 60-degree weld fixture continues.
  

• Major Tool has researched various options for removing the mill finish (so-called “skin”) on the as-received production panel material and decided to sand them in-house using established procedures. The quality of the finished product will not be affected.
  

• The technical representative, Mike Viola, will visit Major Tool next week.
  

Hutch Neilson