Objective:
The objective of the project is to:
- Gauge shipyard laser ablation equipment availability and usage.
- Evaluate the production rate, surface profile, and degree of cleanliness produced in laser ablating steel in a shipyard setting.
- Compare laser ablation to hand tool, power tool, and abrasive blasting surface preparation.
- Evaluate additional benefits of laser ablation and specific applications where it will be a valuable preparation option.
Summary:
Laser ablation is a maturing coating removal and surface preparation technology. Numerous efforts by Navy and other branches of the DoD have studied laser surface preparation in recent years. Due to new advances, lasers are now more accessible and usable in a shipyard environment. Several shipyards have already purchased laser ablation systems and are investigating beneficial use cases. Although it is a promising tool, its effectiveness compared to standard surface preparation practices has not been fully investigated. Leveraging data generated through this project and previous efforts will help shipyards target applications where laser ablation will provide the greatest benefit compared to current practices.
Key Deliverables / Benefits:
- Laser ablation use guide for shipyards
- Final Report with recommendations
Overview
Project Team:
- Elzly Technology, Newport News Shipbuilding
- February 2026 – February 2027
NSRP ASE Investment:
- $200K
