EPP Exhibits at Surface Navy Symposium '08

FEB 04, 2008
Michael Smith

Goodrich recently attended the Surface Navy Association’s (SNA) annual Symposium in Washington, DC. The SNA Symposium promotes the exchange of information and ideas among military, academic and business communities who share a common interest in Naval Surface Warfare. More than 50 leading defense companies, including Goodrich, showcased innovations and products related to surface ships. Goodrich was represented by its Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) division, which provides acoustic materials and composite structures for U.S. navy surface ships and special operations craft. During the event, Goodrich solicited Navy leadership to endorse our capabilities that support Surface Navy Ship requirements. As an example, Goodrich emphasized how its light weight, corrosion resistant composite fan propulsor assemblies can fulfill an integral role in helping the U.S. Navy reduce the total operating costs of their Joint-Maritime Assault Connnector (JMAC) amphibious craft by reducing weight and maintenance costs. Composites have emerged as a key life cycle cost savings factor in shipbuilding design and this event provided an invaluable opportunity for Goodrich to promote its composite technology and experience to an audience of customers and industry partners.  “Goodrich successfully conveyed itself as a leading defense company that has the product and technology solutions to meet customer needs on new and next generation platforms”, stated Jim Pollock, EPP Vice President.

EPP Recognized by United Space Alliance

JUL 17, 2007
Michael Smith

United Space Alliance (USA) senior officials recently visited Goodrich Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) to personally thank them for their quality work producing rubber coated strut covers for NASA's Space Shuttle program. Representatives from Engravers Metal Fabricators, Inc. (EMF), the prime contractor to USA for rubber coated strut covers, also attended the presentation. USA presented EPP with a Certification of Appreciation for its dedication and support to the space shuttle program. EPP worked closely with EMF to establish a detailed standard work instruction for the production of the parts, improved tooling design and produced inspection devices that ensured parts conformed to procurement specifications. "Effective communication between EMF and Goodrich was essential to the success of this program", stated Ed Hart, General Manager of EPP. "Both companies worked collectively to ensure parts conformed to specifications and were delivered on schedule."

The visit was part of USA's widely recognized supplier relations program, which includes face-to-face motivational visits between USA senior executives and its suppliers. "We take great pride in recognizing our supplier's contributions to the aerospace industry", stated Gary Henderson, USA Supplier Relations. "We look forward to continuing our relationship with Goodrich and its committed employees who helped make this program a success."

EPP Hosts Supplier Diversity Meeting

JUL 10, 2007
Michael Smith

On Thursday, June 14^th, Goodrich Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) along with Honeywell Technology Solutions Inc., hosted a chapter meeting for the Florida Minority Supplier Development Council (FMSDC). The FMSDC is the local affiliate to the National Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), which includes a National Office in New York and 39 regional councils across the country. There are 3,500 corporate members throughout the network, including most of America's largest publicly-owned, privately-owned and foreign-owned companies, as well as universities, hospitals and other buying institutions. The NMSDC provides networking and training opportunities to Corporate America and Minority Owned Businesses (MBE).

Representatives from over 40 companies attended the event at the EPP facility in Jacksonville, FL. Members were given the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and establish relationships with EPP contacts in Purchasing, Marketing, Engineering, Information Technology, and Quality Assurance. Members also received instructions on how to register and obtain exposure among procurement representatives at other Goodrich facilities via the Aerovantix Supplier Portal.

The Goodrich Corporation is an active National member of the NMSDC and EPP has embraced the corporation's ongoing commitment to Small Business. “We offer opportunities for Small Business Organizations to qualify for participation in the performance of subcontracts”, stated Jim Pollock, EPP Vice President. “Establishing open opportunities for certified Small Businesses are not an initiative for Goodrich, it is the right thing to do and a best practice we embrace”.

EPP Exhibits at Sea-Air-Space '07 Expo

APR 13, 2007
Michael Smith

The Navy League of the United States recently hosted its annual Sea-Air-Space Expo at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC. This event is the largest Maritime Exposition in the world, featuring the latest in aviation, space, sea-based surface and subsurface technologies. More than 100 leading defense companies, including Goodrich, showcased innovations and products related to maritime defense. Goodrich was represented by Engineered Polymer Products, Landing Gear, Aircraft Wheels and Brakes, and Integrated Surveillance & Reconnaissance. Goodrich promoted its defense capabilities to key military procurement officers, and established networking opportunities in order to build on its growing defense presence.

Goodrich hosted a reception during the first night of the exposition to establish and advance existing relationships with customers and suppliers. This event was well received and attracted more than 75 business partners and military personnel. The following night, five associates from Goodrich were among the several hundred defense industry and Department of Defense (DoD) guests who attended the Navy League’s Black-Tie-Banquet. The event allowed Goodrich associates to interact and develop relationships with government officials and industry colleagues associated with our business interests. “Goodrich successfully conveyed itself as a leading defense company with a growing resume of products and services on naval platforms at the Sea-Air-Space Expo”, stated Ed Hart, General Manager of Engineered Polymer Products.     

EPP Sponsors Jacksonville USO's Anniversary Celebration

NOV 20, 2006
Michael Smith

On Saturday, November 4^th, the Greater Jacksonville Area USO hosted its 65^th Anniversary celebration at the Times Union Center in Jacksonville, FL featuring celebrity guest emcee Ed McMahon. The event was highlighted by a variety of musical and comedic performances from some of the region’s premier entertainers. Goodrich Engineered Polymer Products (EPP), a proud supporter of the USO, received sponsorship recognition at this event for its contributions. EPP committed to provide $50K over a five year period to support USO activities for our Armed Forces personnel and their families, in addition to proceeds donated from its annual employee charity raffle. “EPP employees have done a tremendous job supporting the USO and its mission of providing morale, welfare, and recreation-style services to our men and women in uniform”, stated Ed Hart, EPP President. The show was taped for broadcast on DVD and sent to our deployed units. A portion of EPP’s contribution was used to purchase tickets for military personnel and family members of fallen heroes to attend the event. To learn more about EPP’s partnership with the USO, please visit http://www.epp.goodrich.com/commserv.shtml

General Dynamics Electric Boat Chooses Goodrich Towed Array Fairings for Virginia Class Submarine

OCT 24, 2006
Michael Smith

General Dynamics Electric Boat Corporation has chosen Goodrich Corporation to produce lightweight, composite Towed Array Fairings (TAF) for the Virginia Class (SSN-774) nuclear fast attack submarine. "This award represents a significant addition to the increasing number of composite components we provide for the Virginia Class Submarine," stated Ed Hart, President of Goodrich's Engineered Polymer Products division. "With increased emphasis on lightweight, low maintenance composite structures, we are fulfilling an integral role in helping the U.S. Navy reduce the total operating costs of their ships,” he continued.  The hydro-dynamic shape of Goodrich’s light-weight, non-metallic fairing allows for smooth laminar flow of water over its surface thereby reducing drag on the submarine. Goodrich’s Engineered Polymer Products team based in Jacksonville, FL will fabricate, test and deliver the TAFs beginning this year. Goodrich provides a wide range of composite product content, involving nearly one dozen different composites and advanced material systems, for the U.S. Navy’s newest fast attack nuclear submarine class.

EPP Receives Contract Award to Produce High Frequency Windows

OCT 24, 2006
Michael Smith

Goodrich Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) received a contract from Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) to produce High Frequency Array (HFA) Windows for the SEAWOLF, SSGN, VIRGINIA and 688i Class Submarines. The value of this IDIQ contract is approximately $4.2 M. The HFA Windows are acoustic composite structures that surround the transducer assemblies. As part of the submarine’s active sonar detection system, the HFA Window allows high frequency acoustic energy to pass through with minimal sound energy loss. EPP has direct experience in acoustic window design, which includes the development and production of HFA Windows for SSN774 and SSN688I Class submarines under a previous contract. Engineers and material specialists were involved in full design and testing to optimize the structural and acoustical properties of the window. Being selected to produce HFA windows demonstrates the Navy’s confidence in our ability to develop quality components that meet their specific structural and acoustic requirements. Production will occur at the EPP facility in Jacksonville, FL with delivery of the first SSGN HFA Window scheduled for mid-2007. 

New Technology for Amphibious Craft

AUG 31, 2006
Michael Smith

Goodrich Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) received a contract to continue its concept development work for the Joint Maritime Assault Connector (JMAC) composite Fan Propulsor Assembly (FPA) for Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). The Navy is conducting studies for a new craft that will replace its current landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vehicle, which is nearing the end of its service life. The JMAC is a critical component of the Navy's sea basing strategy that requires a viable, at sea-based means to deliver troops, equipment, and supplies to and over the shore. The FPA houses the fan blades that provide thrust and directional control.

Based upon the positive performance results derived from the analysis conducted on its conceptual design and feedback received from NAVSEA during the Phase 1 Concept Design Study, EPP was awarded a contract for Phase II, which consists of further development of the FPA to a Preliminary Design that includes production of scaled prototypes.

EPP is recommending a composite design that will be significantly lighter while still meeting expected structural loads with a projected 33-year fatigue life. The weight reduction will increase JMAC range, payload capacity, overall speed, and reduce fuel consumption. An optimized 7-stator/6-blade composite FPA is expected to improve propulsor aerodynamic efficiency by 25% and to increase maximum thrust 50% compared to the baseline aluminum 5-stator/4-blade design. The composite construction of the FPA will also require less maintenance than a metal based equivalent.

The period of performance for Phase II is 13 months starting in August 2006. This project involves inter-divisional design support and material technologies from Aerostructures, Sensors and Integrated Systems. For more information about the LCAC vehicle, please visit http://www.navysite.de/ships/lcac.htm

EPP receives visit from The Secretary of the Navy

JUN 07, 2006
Michael Smith

While visiting Jacksonville, FL to commemorate the Battle of Midway on June 1, the Secretary of the Navy, The Honorable Donald C. Winter visited the Engineered Polymer Products (EPP) facility. He was accompanied by Commander Officer, James Hooks of the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) –Blount Island Command and members of his staff. This visit allowed EPP to showcase its capabilities and contributions to the senior civilian leader of the U.S. Navy. The Secretary learned EPP generates over $8M in sales revenues through the nearly one dozen different composite products and advanced material systems it provides for the U.S. Navy’s newest fast attack nuclear submarine class. The Secretary and Col. Hooks expressed particular interest in EPP’s innovative lightweight, fireproof composite material system that is being tested on the Marine Corps Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle. Specific examples in EPP’s cost reduction activities, particularly through LEAN procedures and initiatives, were also highlighted in the discussion. Being a key supplier to the Navy for over 50 years, EPP expressed its knowledge and understanding of the culture and business practices of the Navy and how that information is used to provide effective solutions to the challenging procurement and performance issues it faces.  

EPP Awarded High Frequency Chin Array Contract

MAR 09, 2006
Michael Smith

Goodrich EPP received an award from Northrop Grumman Newport News to produce (7) ship sets of High Frequency Chin Array (HFCA) components for the Virginia Class submarines (VCS). The HFCA is an integral part of the VCS acoustic sensors system. This award culminates a six-month effort that included process design and qualification. The HFCA is the latest addition to the growing number of composite products EPP supplies for the Virginia Class submarines. EPP will manufacture the HFCA components at its Jacksonville, FL facility.

EPP Installs Sonar Dome Rubber Window Hardware on Japanese Navy Destroyer

MAR 08, 2006
Michael Smith

In January 2006, a team of EPP field service technicians traveled to Nagasaki, Japan to install Sonar Dome Rubber Window (SDRW) bead seat hardware castings to a Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force Kongo-class Aegis destroyer.  Our service technicians used a Faro Laser Tracking system to measure the existing ship structure to locate and position the SDRW bead seat hardware to the hull. The Faro tracking equipment identifies the 3D coordinates of the hull structure to 0.001” accuracy within 230 foot range. Precise alignment of the beat seat hardware is critical for the proper form, fit, and function of the SDRW.  The SDRW surrounds the ship’s transducer and is attached to the bead seat castings. The SDRW acts as a “window” allowing acoustic energy to pass through it with minimal performance degradation.  EPP technicians worked collectively with Japanese engineers, welders, and ship fitters to complete the installation.  “We were able to overcome language barriers and work cohesively as a team utilizing best practices across multi-functional teams”, stated Derek Beck, Manufacturing Engineer for EPP. Click here  to learn more about EPP acoustic structures.