Article

Tannar Boyer from Inside Machine Shop developed a new manufacturing process for a hatch locking ring to support USS North Dakota's maintenance at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This innovative process streamlines production, reducing risks for future repairs.

The hatch locking ring secures the submarine's hatch cover, preventing water entry. Boyer initiated research, material acquisition, and manufacturing, utilizing complex machining operations and custom tooling.

He created an aluminum mockup for proof of concept, which facilitated risk management and saved 140 man-hours. Collaboration with the engineering team ensured precision and safety in the final product. The developed process will support future Navy manufacturing needs, allowing other operations to continue without interruption.