Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipbuilding is utilizing new power transmission technology in the production of the Navy’s newest Aircraft Carrier “CVN77”. NGNPN and the Navy have specified and approved for use the patented ApexÒ RAO Universal Joint for various Remote Operated Gear (ROG) applications. The ApexÒ RAO Universal Joint addresses age-old problems with Rigid Rod Systems and Valve Actuation Systems. The universal joint, manufactured by Cooper Tools, in Dayton, Ohio is very unique. It not only functions as a universal joint but can also replace gearboxes up to 90°. It also accommodates misalignment in multiple planes, thereby, eliminating the need for additional couplings on gearbox shafts. Some of the unique features of the ApexÒ RAO universal joint realized by NGNPN and the Navy are:
- It can transmit torque between misaligned and/or offset shafts.
- It can accommodate compound angles up to 90 degree at calculated efficiencies of 97%.
- It can replace standard pin and cube universal joints as well as gearboxes or combinations of both.
- It can be installed in a “V” or “Z” configuration.
- It can handle higher torque loads at higher RPM’s than conventional universal joints with less vibration in less space.
- It is designed to be self-lubricating and maintenance-free. The use of corrosion resistant stainless steels and polymer bearings make this possible.
- Weight savings of 50% verses a comparable gearbox are typical.
- Major cost savings realized by NGNPN and the Navy due to faster/easier installations and reduced life cycle costs.
- Qualified IAW MIL-STD-901 class A shock test.
- Reduced inventory costs since one ApexÒ RAO universal joint replaces multiple gearboxes and universal joints.
Cost savings, weight reduction, easier installations and overall efficiency is why the ApexÒ RAO will be part of the newest Aircraft Carrier in the Navy’s fleet. The technology has also been successfully tested and used on other classes of ships as well.
This product is exclusively distributed by Monarch Supply Co., Inc. in Chesapeake, VA, USA. You can contact them at email sales@monarchsupply.com or at phone 1-757-487-1700 for more information on this product including drawings and pictures of applications where it has been used.
