A major thrust of the
EMTC is to develop and implement affordable manufacturing processes for
energetic materials, formulations, components and systems that are integrated
with environmental considerations. It is essential to unite manufacturing
processes with environmental protection. We promote innovative technologies and
processes that will prevent pollution or clean up existing manufacturing
methods.
Process Technology
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Resonant Acoustic Mixing
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Our goal is to reduce
manufacturing costs while improving product quality
and reliability by implementing the following:
- Process Controls - Improving methods for process
analysis and data collection to decrease product variability and increase
production yields
- Manufacturing Techniques - Developing new or improving
existing methods of manufacturing energetics
- Process Analysis - Analyzing and modeling processes to
reduce cycle time, improve quality, and minimize variability.
In the case of energetics, the design or
redesign of manufacturing processes takes on a special complexity because of
the unforgiving nature of the materials involved. Modifications to existing
processes must be carefully thought out and exhaustively demonstrated before
implementation. By sponsoring demonstrations of safe, new technology with wide
applications for environmentally sound manufacturing processes, the Navy can
expand the knowledge base and at the same time continue to produce Navy-unique
items.
Environmental Awareness
The EMTC is equally
dedicated to developing and implementing environmentally benign manufacturing
processes. Many manufacturing processes which served well in the past have now,
with increased environmental awareness, become outmoded. In order for the Navy
to retain its fighting edge while remaining in environmental compliance, new
procedures and processes must be constantly developed.
The environment is a
major consideration in the business of energetics. The Center stresses the
following:
- Pollution Prevention - Promoting environmentally
conscious manufacturing that produces minimal or no hazardous waste or
pollution
- Reclamation/Recycle - Minimizing the environmental
impact through the recycling of raw materials and hazardous waste
- Compliance - Concentrating on improved methods for
disposal of energetic waste and of other pollutants.