Explores the Use of Exhaust Nozzle CHEVRONS · Program Management by Fighter Jet Team ersonnel from the F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office (Program Manager—Air (PMA) 265) at the Naval

Spray Aeration Improves San Clemente Island Drinking Water JBPHH Joins the Team to Fight Coconut Rhinoceros BeetleHawaii Takes to the Air for Oil Spill Response

Innovation Demonstrates Proactive Acquisition Program Management by Fighter Jet Team

ENERGY WARRIOR POSTER INSIDE!

F/A-18 PROGRAM Explores the Use of

Exhaust Nozzle CHEVRONS

to Reduce ENGINE NOISE

cover

6Personnel from the F/A-18 Program Office have been experimentingwith the use of exhaust nozzle chevrons to reduce the noisegenerated by the Navy’s preeminent strike fighter program.

F/A-18 Program Explores the Use of Exhaust NozzleChevrons to Reduce Engine NoiseInnovation Demonstrates Proactive Acquisition ProgramManagement by Fighter Jet Team

Currents (ISSN 1544-6603) is the official energy and environmental magazine of the U.S. Navy, Chief of NavalOperations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division (N45).

This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Statements made in theN45 Outlook column reflect the official policy of the Navy. The contents in the remainder of the magazine are notnecessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the UnitedStates Navy. Inclusion of any product or service in any Currents feature article does not constitute an endorse mentby the Navy. The Navy encourages all readers to check with the appropriate supervising authority prior to using anyproduct or service mentioned in the magazine.

Article submissions should be submitted directly to Currents’ Managing Editor, Bruce McCaffrey, using theCurrents article template. A public affairs review must be completed before Currents management can consideran article for publication.

Browse the Currents archives and subscribe to the magazine at www.greenfleet.dodlive.mil/currents-magazine.Contact Lorraine Wass, Currents’ Distribution Manager, with any changes to mailing addresses or shipping quantities.

Currents (ISSN 1544-6603) is the official energy and environmental magazine of the U.S. Navy, Chief of NavalOperations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division (N45).

This magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Statements made in theN45 Outlook column reflect the official policy of the Navy. The contents in the remainder of the magazine are notnecessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the UnitedStates Navy. Inclusion of any product or service in any Currents feature article does not constitute an endorse mentby the Navy. The Navy encourages all readers to check with the appropriate supervising authority prior to using anyproduct or service mentioned in the magazine.

Article submissions should be submitted directly to Currents’ Managing Editor, Bruce McCaffrey, using theCurrents article template. A public affairs review must be completed before Currents management can consideran article for publication.

Browse the Currents archive at http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/currents. Commands that receive hard copies can contactLorraine Wass ([email protected]) with requests for changes to mailing addresses and shipping quantities.

“Like” Currents on Facebook by logging onto your account at www.facebook.com,

searching for “U.S. Navy Currents magazine,” thenclicking the “Like” button. You can also find us at

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T H E N A V Y,S E N E R G Y & E N V I R O N M E N TA L M A G A Z I N E

Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division

DIRECTORRear Admiral Kevin R. Slates

DEPUTY DIRECTORMr. Karnig H. Ohannessian

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACHKenneth Hess

Currents Staff

MANAGING EDITORBruce McCaffrey

Bruce McCaffrey Consulting, [email protected]

773-376-6200

CONTRIBUTING WRITERKathy Kelley

ART DIRECTORVictoria Bermel

GRAPHIC ARTISTAmy Jungers

DISTRIBUTION MANAGERLorraine Wass

[email protected]

4 N45 Outlook

25 Trends of the Environment

42 Did You Know?

55 Best Shot

20 Energy Conservation & CommandInvolvement Abound at NavalHospital BremertonEnergy Action Month Validates OngoingPractices

36 JBPHH Joins the Team to FightCoconut Rhinoceros BeetleInvasive Insect Poses Real Threat toHawaii’s Palm Trees

44 Spray Aeration Improves SanClemente Island Drinking WaterInexpensive, Simple Technology Reduces TrihalomethaneConcentrations

52 Naval Station Everett Uses Advanced Metering toValidate Energy ProjectsRetro-Commissioning Projects Reduce Energy Use by Upto 15 Percent

56 ESTCP Explores Innovations to Maintain ShipboardHeat ExchangersInitial Studies Focus on the Use of Iodine Bubbles toReduce the Rate of Fouling

62 Hawaii Takes to the Air for Oil Spill ResponsePartnering with the Local Community Increases the Navy’sOil Spill Response Capabilities

62

36

52

features

departments

winter 2015

Improving Awareness of Energy &Navy At-Sea ActivitiesWELCOME TO THE winter 2015 issue of Currents. I’lluse this space to give a short overview of recent Navyaccomplishments in our energy program, as well as somenoteworthy environmental items.

This past November, I participated in a Fleet EnergyTraining event hosted by U.S. Fleet Forces Command(USFF) at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. It was the thirdevent of this type, and I believe the best one to date. Therewere 270 participants and a great turnout by senior leader-ship from USFF and all of their Type Commanders. Amongthe many informative speakers were the Honorable DennisMcGinn, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installa-tions and Environment; Rear Admiral Brad Gehrke, Directorof Maritime Headquarters for USFF; and Rear AdmiralMary Jackson, Commander Navy Region Southeast. Theseforums provide a great opportunity to highlight the impor-tance and purpose of the Navy’s energy program as well asto share/discuss new ideas and best practices throughoutthe Fleet to turn ideas into useful outcomes. For Sailors andother attendees, these training events reinforce the fact thatwe are undertaking energy initiatives because more effi-cient use of fuel provides increased combat capability andmore time on station. Likewise, alternative fuels providegreater flexibility and resiliency to our logistics chain. Addi-tional training events are being scheduled in Hawaii andJapan early in 2015.

One of the awareness tools USFF and I highlighted at theJacksonville training was the Energy Warrior (EW) app.The app has been available for iPads and Android devicessince mid-September, but we recently completed anupdate that makes it work on iPhones as well. USFFpersonnel did a great job introducing the app, and manyattendees—including a reporter from Action News Jax(WJAX-TV)—downloaded it on the spot. We continue toget requests from participants regarding the app andothers offering technology ideas and innovative energy-

saving practices.We’re alreadythinking abouthow to make thenext version moreinteractive and asengaging aspossible to helpharness the innov-ative ideas of ourSailors and civil-ians. If youhaven’t down-loaded it yet, getEW for free andsend us your ideasat http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/energy/energywarrior.

With 2014 now in the rear view mirror, planning is rampingup for deployment of the Great Green Fleet (GGF) in 2016.The GGF deployment will differ from the historic journey ofthe Great White Fleet in that, rather than a specific “battlegroup” that navigates a planned route worldwide, the GGFwill involve assets in many locations performing plannedexercises and deployments while using alternative fuels (i.e.,biofuel blends or nuclear) and/or a combination of energyconservation measures such as stern flaps and energy dash-boards or operational procedures that maximize the effi-cient use of energy/fuel. As with other facets of our energyprograms, individual behavior and cultural change is key as

we highlight these initiatives during GGF as “the newnormal” to increase our capability and resiliency.

Interoperability with our allies will also be a vital aspect ofthe GGF for many reasons and we intend to invite ourinternational partners to participate. We and our partnersmust have full assurance that any alternative fuels suppliedto our ships and aircraft meet required military specifica-tions (MILSPEC), which is what our test and qualificationprogram for fuels achieves. Once qualified, our MILSPECs

4 Currents winter 2015

N45outlook

These training events reinforce the fact that we are undertaking energy initiatives because more efficient use of fuel provides

increased combat capability and more time on station.

for fuel are updated to reflect that these new fuels meetmilitary standards. We currently have statements of coop-eration in place with the Royal Australian Navy (July 2012)and the Italian Navy (April 2014) to facilitate cooperationon research, testing, and use of advanced biofuels, and arepursuing similar agreements with other allies. Additionally,the North Atlantic Treaty Organization fuels and lubricantsworking group is working with partner nations to adoptalternative fuels.

On the shore energy front, our installations continue to berecognized for their innovative efforts to reduce energyconsumption. During a ceremony on 31 October 2014 atthe White House, the Navy received two of the seven 2014GreenGov Presidential Awards. These awards recognizeorganizations and individuals that excel in pursuing cleanenergy goals outlined in executive order 13514 (FederalLeadership in Environmental, Energy, and EconomicPerformance). The energy team at Naval District Wash-ington was recognized for reducing energy intensity by 25percent relative to a 2003 baseline, reducing water inten-sity by 13 percent from the 2007 baseline, and completing99 percent of advanced metering infrastructure installation.Located in an extremely challenging climate with basepower provided solely by generators, the Camp Lemonnier(Djibouti, Africa) energy team reduced energy intensity by13.5 percent relative to the 2003 baseline by making effi-ciency upgrades to generators, power plants, air condi-tioning units, and chilled water stations. Especially in areaslike Djibouti, efforts to reduce water and fuel usage with nomission impact can be a huge cost saver and helps reducechallenging logistics burdens. Congratulations to these twocommands for this well-deserved recognition.

In my last column, I mentioned progress in acceleratinginstallation of light emitting diode (LED) bulbs on ships.I’m happy to report that as of the end of 2014, the NavalSea Systems Command and the Fleets have installedapproximately 185,000 LED bulbs on 190 ships,including amphibious ships, cruisers, destroyers, andMilitary Sealift Command ships. LEDs save energy, whichis important for reasons I’ve outlined above, but theyalso have a very positive impact on the quality of life for

ship’s crews because of better lightquality, much longer bulb life whichgreatly reduces maintenancerequirements, as well as improvingsafety as bulbs in hard to changelocations do not have to be replaced asfrequently. We’re getting positive feedbackfrom ships with LEDs installed and have plans to installmore in the future.

We are always looking for opportunities to highlight ourenvironmental stewardship and educate the public abouthow and why we train and test, the steps we take toprotect marine mammals and the environment, and theresearch we’re funding to improve knowledge on howmarine mammals are affected by underwater sound. Insupport of those goals, USFF recently provided an opportu-nity for key representatives from the Marine MammalCommission, the National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management,and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (a non-profitoceanic research organization) to embark aboard theaircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 74). This wasa rare chance for non-military folks to see their Navy inaction, talk to Sailors, and better understand the complexityof how we live and operate at sea. After the carrier visit,several guests participated in a pier side visit to thedestroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74). They received briefings onthe marine mammal protective measures we use at sea,the marine mammal awareness training shipboardpersonnel receive, and our systems for safely managingbiodegradables and other waste materials while mini-mizing impacts on the environment. While it is no smalltask to organize these types of ship visits, I believe they areamong the most effective means to provide an accuratepicture of our environmental programs and stewardship.

Thanks for reading Currents, and for your continuedinterest in and support of the Navy’s energy and environ-mental initiatives. �

Rear Admiral Kevin R. SlatesDirector, Chief of Naval Operations Energy and

Environmental Readiness Division

winter 2015 Currents 5

N45outlook

As of the end of 2014, the Naval Sea Systems Command and the Fleets have installed approximately 185,000 LED bulbs on 190 ships.


F/A-18 PROGRAM Explores the Use of

Exhaust Nozzle CHEVRONS

to Reduce ENGINE NOISEInnovation Demonstrates Proactive Acquisition

Program Management by Fighter Jet Team

ersonnel from the F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office

(Program Manager—Air (PMA) 265) at the Naval Air

Systems Command (NAVAIR) have been experimenting

with the use of exhaust nozzle chevrons to reduce the noise

generated by the Navy’s preeminent strike fighter program.

P

engines) means increased exhaustvelocity and higher temperatures,resulting in elevated jet noise. (Formore insights, see our sidebar “TheNavy Safety Center’s Perspective onNoise & Its Impacts.”) The Navy’ssolution (and that of other Services)to excessive noise has been toprovide hearing protection (FlightDeck Cranials) for support personnel.Over the past years, the Navy hasdeveloped an Advanced NoiseReduction (ANR) system thatpromises the wearer up to 47 decibel(dB) protection.

Commercial jetliners with large highby-pass fan jet engines have achievedvery significant jet noise reductionover the years. Unfortunately thethrust, weight, and size requirementspeculiar to naval carrier aircraftpreclude the use of this technology.Until very recently, the Navy’sresponse to jet noise was focusedexclusively on hearing protection.However, even the best ANR systemsavailable do not provide adequatehearing protection. This gap in noiseexposure must first be addressed atthe source—the jet engine nozzle.


The Navy Safety Center’s PERSPECTIVE ON NOISE & ITS IMPACTS

BACKGROUND For many years, tactical jet aircraftand jet engine designers haveresponded exclusively to the require-ment for better performance andincreased range by seeking greaterjet engine thrust and lower aircraftweight. All acquisition programsestablish performance goals andtrack the success of their systemsdesign and modifications to thatdesign against those goals. Greaterthrust (a common goal for highperformance tactical aircraft jet

Until very recently, the Navy’s response to jet noise was focused exclusively on hearing protection.

A ccording to the Navy Safety Center’s web site, noise isa fact of everyday life for the more than 107,000

Sailors living and working aboard U.S. Navy ships. In addi-tion to flight operation noise, there are numerous noisesources on deck and throughout Navy ships that exceedsafe limits for all but the shortest exposures. Long-termexposure to high levels of noise is a source of perma-nent hearing loss. Shipboard noise control is criticalto the preservation of crew health, mission success,and personnel retention.

Noise-induced hearing loss is the Fleet’s number oneoccupational health expense. The economic conse-quences to the Navy of hearing impairment includelost time and decreased productivity, loss of qualifiedworkers through medical disqualification, militarydisability settlements, retraining, and expenses relatedto medical treatment, such as for hearing aids.

Disability payments to veterans for hearing loss showa continuing upward trend. Given the enormity of theincrease in spending on hearing loss disabilitypayments to former Navy personnel, it is important tofind the sources of hearing loss in the Navy and theninvestigate ways to reverse this trend.

For more insights into the Navy Safety Center’s efforts tocontrol noise aboard Navy ships including a completediscussion of the problem of noise, its impact on the Navy’s personnel and the need for action, visitwww.public.navy.mil/comnavsafecen/pages/acquisition/noise_control.aspx.


The Department ofDefense and the Navy hasfor years recognized thathazards and risk associated with theoperation of military platforms mustbe identified and mitigationmeasures put in place. The DefenseAcquisition System Safety—Environ-ment, Safety, and OccupationalHealth (ESOH) Risk AcceptanceMemorandum (signed by Kenneth J.Krieg, Under Secretary of Defense forAcquisition, Technology and Logisticsand dated 7 March 2007) states “Idirect that addressees ensure that—prior to exposing people, equipment,or the environment to knownsystem-related ESOH hazards—theassociated risk levels, as defined inMIL-STD-882D, must be accepted bythe authorities identified in DoDI5000.2. The user representative mustbe part of this process throughout thelifecycle and must provide formalconcurrence prior to all Serious- andHigh-risk acceptance decisions.”

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160

AV-8BJSF STOVLEA-6BF-14A/BF-14DF-15CF-16 (P229)F/A-18C/DF/A-18E/FF-22JSF CV & CTOL

F-14A/BF-14DF-15CF-16 (P229)F/A-18C/DF/A-18E/FF-22JSF CV & CTOL

Nearfield Aircraft Noise—Close Behind

Sound Level dBA6dB = 2x Sound Pressure

Afte

rbur

ner

Pow

er

M

ilita

ry P

ower

THE PROBLEM

Flight deck personnel are exposed to heavy acoustic loads.

Jet noise can pose a serious risk.Pursuant to this memo, ProgramExecutive Officer for Tactical Air(PEO(T)) formally acknowledged thisand obtained concurrence from theCommander, Naval Air Forces (CNAF).Moreover, PEO(T) directed PMA265 toassess annually “…the viability ofincorporating proven technologiesinto the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G.” Inresponse to this direction, PMA265embarked on a robust research anddevelopment program.

THE SEARCH FOR A SOLUTIONPMA265 researched a number oftechnologies to reduce jet enginenoise including corrugated seals,water injection, fluidic chevrons (airinjection) and the application ofplasma actuators to jet exhaust.Initially, each of these technologiesshowed promise but ultimately werenot selected.

Corrugated SealsThe initial configuration of corrugatedVariable Exhaust Nozzle (VEN) sealsdid reduce jet noise in the near fieldon takeoff but had an impact on

thrust when the aircraft was at alti-tude/cruise. This impacts aircraftrange and speed—an unacceptabledrawback for the Fleet andwarfighter. PMA265 directed addi-tional aeroacoustic researchperformed by the National Centerfor Physical Acoustics at the Univer-sity of Mississippi which confirmedthis analysis.

Water InjectionWater injection into the exhaustplume also reduces jet noise.However, there are many draw-backs. A massive brine plume whenused on aircraft carriers leading tosignificant corrosion issues andcarriage of a 4,000-pound watertank would greatly diminish aircraftrange, performance, fuel andordnance capability.

Fluidic ChevronsFluidic chevrons (injecting highpressure air jets into the exhaustplume) would seem to offer a“switchable solution”—use ontakeoff and turn off at altitude/cruise. However during Office ofNaval Research (ONR) tests, the


The chevron static test conducted in 2007 demonstrated significant noise reduction without measured loss of thrust.

QUOTABLE QUOTES & SUPPORTING MEMORANDA

1.United States Fleet Forces Command“This specific Rapid Technology Transition (RTT)

F/A-18 Jet Noise Reduction Initiative is not only prudent,it is necessary for future Fleet readiness.”

2.Naval Safety Center“The Commander, Naval Safety Center enthusiastically

supports efforts by the acquisition community to developweapons systems with reduced noise signatures and thisspecific RTT F/A-18 jet noise reduction initiative.”

3.Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Installations and Environment

“Succeeding generations of aircraft with their higher noiselevels have only made this problem worse. Engineeringsolutions that reduce aircraft noise are key to resolvingthis problem.”

4.Commander, Naval Air Forces“The Commander, Naval Air Forces supports…this

specific F/A-18 jet noise reduction initiative.”


compressed air demands farexceeded the available jet engine-produced bleed air available.

Plasma ActuatorsPlasma actuators use a strong elec-trical field to generate plasma. Thishas the effect of reducing the turbu-lence and vortices in the exhaustplume thus reducing dB levels.However, electric power required isfar above that available on boardtactical aircraft.

Of the technologies and solutionstested, PMA265 determined thatinstalling a uniquely shaped extensionof the jet engine nozzles that mayprovide an optimal configuration fornoise reduction.

and reduction of peak velocity alsoreduces the extent and strength of theshock cells in the jet plume, which areknown to generate noise through theirinteraction with the turbulent airflow.

CHEVRONS:The Best Solution to the Problem

The chevron static test conducted byONR and General Electric (GE) Avia-tion at the Naval Air Warfare CenterAircraft Division (NAWCAD) in Lake-hurst, New Jersey in September 2007demonstrated significant noise reduc-tion without measured loss of thrust.The reduction of exhaust noise onthis first generation jet is an initial

THE PROPOSED TECHNOLOGY:Chevrons Extend the VariableExhaust Nozzle Seals

The chevron is a specially designedshape that is installed at the trailingedge of the exhaust nozzle. Thechevron promotes more rapid mixingin the shear layer between the jetplume and the ambient air throughthe generation of vortices that roll upalong the angled side of the chevron.This enhanced mixing of the jetplume helps to reduce the peak jetvelocity more efficiently. The peak jetvelocity is the prime factor in noisegeneration—reduction in peak jetvelocity equates to reduced noiseproduction. This increased mixing

Chevrons installed on the F/A-18E/F aircraft in preparation for a static noise test.

continued on page 14

MC1 Michael Lindsey

MC2 Andrea Perez

MC2 Laurie Dexter

MC2 Andrea Perez

The Navy’s Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron flies F/A-18 aircraft. The exhaust nozzle chevrons discussed in this article are applicable to this entire class of aircraft.

MC1 Michael Lindsey

MC2 Andrea Perez

MC2 Andrea Perez

MC2 Kathryn E. Macdonald

step in integrating this commercialtechnology on military jet engines. Thereduction of sound pressure levels by 3dB A-weighted (dBA) over much of thefrequency range is very significant as itrepresents a 50 percent reduction insound pressure levels. This would belike doubling the distance from a noisesource. Moreover, as generated in asubsequent test, in the 3 kilo hertz(kHZ) to 6 kHZ frequency, considered

to be the most likely to cause noiseinduced hearing loss (NIHL), noisereduction of up to 7 dB is possible. Asdiscussed, other technologies such ascorrugated seals, water injection, fluidicchevrons (air injection) and applicationof plasma actuators to jet exhaust arenot as mature or as easy to implementas chevrons; hence the decision tofocus on chevrons. Additionally, thisdesign will serve as a foundation forfurther noise reduction because it iscompatible with other noise abate-

ment technologies. This is a first stepin an overall effort to reduce enginesound pressure level (SPL).

TEST PROGRAM: Demonstration & Validation

All changes in configuration of theF/A-18 aircraft can be made only afterrigorous test and evaluation. Thefollowing major “pass/fail” criteria forchevron technology were applied tothe F414 engine:


KEY PLAYERS

1.Program OfficeThe F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office is respon-

sible for acquiring, delivering and sustaining the F/A-18C/D Hornet, F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet, and EA-18GGrowler aircraft, providing naval aviators with capabili-ties that enable mission success. Serving seven interna-tional customers, the program office emphasizescooperative development and partnerships for foreignmilitary sales to Australia, Canada, Finland, Kuwait,Malaysia, Spain and Switzerland.

2.Contractor SupportThe F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office has relied on

the original equipment manufacturer, GE Aviation todevelop the initial sets of test article chevron VEN sealsas they have the most complete understanding of the

required design/configuration of the F414 jet nozzle. Toreduce the impact of the jet noise produced by F/A-18aircraft on communities surrounding Naval Air Stations,the Program Office sponsored a Small Business InnovativeResearch contract awarded to Blue Ridge Research andConsulting. The goal of this contract was to develop asoftware program that would optimize the flight profilesminimizing noise impact. The final product called “TheOptimizer” is available to the Naval Facilities EngineeringCommand for use at their activities. Although the config-uration selected for development is chevrons, there areother designs that are potentially effective in reducingjet noise. The Program Office contracted with the Univer-sity of Mississippi’s National Center for Physical Acousticsto explore these options and provide recommendationsfor additional research.

continued from page 11

The Basics About THE F/A-18 HORNET JET FIGHTER

The F/A-18 Hornet was developed in the early 1980’s asan all-weather aircraft and is used as an attack aircraft

as well as a fighter. In its fighter mode, the F/A-18 isused primarily as a fighter escort and for Fleet air defense.In its attack mode, it is used for force projection, interdic-tion and close and deep air support. The Hornet saw itsfirst combat action in 1986 during Operation El DoradoCanyon and subsequently participated in 1991 OperationDesert Storm and 2003 Operation Iraqi Freedom. The F/A-18 Hornet provided the baseline design for the BoeingF/A-18E/F Super Hornet—a larger, evolutionary redesignof the F/A-18. The F/A-18 Hornet family of aircraftincluding the Hornet, Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growlerhas flown over nine million flight hours and continues toprove its value and reliability to the fleet and willcontinue to serve the nation for years to come.

• Super Hornet: The F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet is acombat-proven platform with demonstrated capabilitiesin multiple warfighting roles. The Block II aircraftprovides enhanced capabilities over its predecessors.

• EA-18G Growler: The Navy’s EA-18G Growler is designedto be a mission-changing electronic attack aircraft thatcombines the demonstrated capability of the SuperHornet’s suppression of enemy air defenses with supe-rior jamming abilities in the reactive, pre-emptive,standoff, and escort roles. The EA-18G Growler is avariant of the combat-proven F/A-18F Super HornetBlock II, and will fly the airborne electronic attackmission. The EA-18G combines the capability of thecombat-proven Super Hornet with the latest avionicssuite evolved from the Improved Capability III system.The EA-18G’s vast array of sensors and weapons providesthe warfighter with a lethal and survivable weaponsystem to counter current and emerging threats.

• F/A-18 Hornets, Super Hornets and EA-18G Growlerscurrently operate in 43 U.S. Navy and 11 U.S. MarineCorps Strike Fighter and Electronic Attack Squadronsfrom carriers and air stations worldwide. There are anadditional 14 squadrons carrying out training, test,reserve and flight demonstration duties.

• Two F404-GE-402 afterburning engines, each in the 18,000pound thrust class, which results in a combat thrust-to-weightratio greater than 1-to-1. Depending on the mission andloading, combat radius is greater than 500 nautical miles.

• F/A-18C maximum speed at level flight in altitudes of 36,089feet: Mach 1.7

• F/A-18C/D can carry up to 13,700 pounds of external ordnance. • Weapon stations include two wingtip stations for Sidewinders;

two outboard wing stations for air-to-air or air-to-groundweapons; two inboard wing stations for fuel tanks, air-to-air,or air-to-ground weapons; two nacelle fuselage stations for theAIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile, AIM-7Sparrow, or sensor pods; and one centerline station for fuel orair-to-ground weapons.

• The F/A-18C/D Hornet can perform both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

• Cockpit displays and mission avionics are thoroughly integratedto enhance crew situational awareness and mission capability inhigh threat, and adverse weather/night environments.

• Cockpits are night vision goggle compatible. • Multi-Sensor Integration and advanced data link capabilities

further enhance situational awareness.

• Twin F414-GE-400 engines, each in the22,000 pound thrust class. On aninterdiction mission, the E/F will flyup to 40 percent further than the C/D.

• F/A-18E maximum speed at level flightin altitudes of 36,089 feet: Mach 1.6

• F/A-18E/F can carry up to 17,750pounds of external ordnance.

• Two additional wing store stationshave been added.

• The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is able toperform a strike tanker mission whilecarrying a self-protection air-to-airmissile loadout.

• The E/F model also has greater payloadflexibility, increased mission radius,survivability, payload bring back, and asubstantial avionics growth potential.

F/A-18E/F Super Hornet

• Boeing (McDonnellDouglas Aerospace)

• Northrop Grumman(Airframe)

• General Electric (Engines)

• Raytheon (Radar)

F/A-18C/D Hornet

Contractor

Power Plant

Accommodations

Performance

Armament

Mission & Capabilities

• The F/A-18C and F/A-18E are single seat aircraft. • The D and F models are flown by two crew members. • The aft seat in the D and F may be configured with a stick and throttle for the training environment

(or without when crewed with a Weapons System Officer).

VEN seals which were structurallyrigid, allowing moderate impinge-ment into the exhaust plume.

2012Follow-on static test of the chevronsinstalled on an F/A18E aircraft/F414engine tied down at the catapult

facility at NAWCAD Patuxent River,Maryland. Because of adverse weatherconditions, the results from this testwere inconclusive. Moreover, theprototype VEN seals developed for thistest were fabricated using ceramicmatrix composites. This material


A Fleet introduction strategy of retrofit by attrition will be implemented with chevrons being a preferred spare.

AWARDS THROUGH THE YEARS

The F/A-18 Program Office has been recognized forconsistent dedication to the Department of the Navy’s

ESOH goals and honored with the following awards:

• Chief of Naval Operations Environmental Excellence inWeapon System Acquisition, Large Program awards in2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2013. Theseawards are awarded for large acquisition programs every

two years; hence this represents outstanding, consecu-tive achievement.

• Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Environmental Excel-lence in Weapon System Acquisition, Large Program,and Team Award in 2003, 2011, and 2013. The SECNAVaward is the highest award for environmental excellencemade by the Department of the Navy.

TOP: Dr. Steven Martens, GE Aircraft Engines(left), Dr. John Spyropoulos and Alan Pentz,NAVAIR Propulsion and Power, were part of

the December 2012 engine test team atNAWCAD Patuxent River, MD.

RIGHT: Mike Rudy, former ESOH Coordinatorfor the F/A-18 Program Office (now with

Wyle Laboratories, Inc.), stands in front of a Super Hornet during the December 2012 test of the experimental exhaust nozzle chevronsconducted at NAWCAD Patuxent River, MD.

1. Reduction in near field SPLs by aminimum of 2.5 dBA with a goalof 3 dBA in the audible spectrum.

2. Without impact to thrust in allflight regimes.

3. Cost of manufacture of the newconfiguration (VEN seals withchevrons) will not substantiallyexceed the current program ofrecord cost for the existing VEN seals.

PMA265 has conducted a series oftests over the course of seven years todetermine the suitability of chevrons:

2009F404 engine test at NAWCAD Lake-hurst produced the results shown inthe figure above. This test usedceramic/metallic prototype test article


(termed Ox-Ox by GE AircraftEngines) is the same as that used inthe manufacture of original andreplacement F414 VEN seals. Charac-teristics include resistance to hightemperatures, thermal shock condi-tions, heavy vibration loads, flexibilityand resistance to cracking.

2014The most recent test was conductedat NAWCAD Lakehurst in October2014. Again, this was a static test ofchevrons F/A-18E installed aircraftengine tied down and the VEN sealswith chevrons used were the Ox-Oxmanufactured prototype. Preliminarytests results indicate no jet noisereduction during afterburner opera-

seals. The F/A-18 Program Office willcontinue to work with its industrypartner (GE Aviation) to determine thetechnical and financial feasibility ofthis technology. Long term reductions(10 dBA near-field) may be consideredby the Naval Aviation Enterprise as anultimate goal for future naval aircraft.

FLEET INTRODUCTIONTo date, the F/A-18 and EA-18GProgram Office has expended over$5.6 million on its jet noise reductionprogram. PMA265’s original plan wasfor a replacement of all current VENseals with the new chevron config-ured seals. This is termed a “forcedretrofit” in the Navy logistics world

tions—marginal improvement atmilitary power. The data collectedare still under analysis. However,there appears to be evidence thatthe flexible characteristics of the Ox-Ox material is allowing the VENseals to bend away from the exhaustplume negating more rapid mixingin the shear layer between the jetplume and the ambient air and jetnoise reduction.

Medium term noise reduction (5 dBAreduction near-field) may build uponthis chevron technology but willrequire more extensive modification/redesign of the existing F414 exhaustsystem and selection of a less flexiblematerial for use in modified VEN

and would cost in excess of $100million. However, current budgetaryconstraints preclude such an aggres-sive approach. Moreover, VEN sealsare expendable—they wear out after400 to 500 hours of engine time andhave to be replaced. Therefore a Fleetintroduction strategy of retrofit byattrition will be implemented with

chevrons being a preferred spare.When an existing standard configura-tion seal requires replacement, thechevron configured VEN seal wouldbe installed. This may provide approx-imately a 50 percent reduction incurrent engine exhaust noise levels ofthe F/A-18E/F F414 engine withoutadditive cost as the chevron seals can

be produced for the same manufac-turing cost as the original seals.

There are details to be worked outhowever. Are there any perfor-mance/structural issues caused byan asymmetric configuration (i.e.,alternating standard configurationsseals with chevron configured sealsor chevrons on one engine and none


FOR MORE INFORMATION• F/A-18 Hornet/Super Hornet web site

www.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.display&key=3ABFFE4F-7D6E-40D0-A0E3-AED4FCB1C408

• EA-18G Growler web sitewww.navair.navy.mil/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.display&key=33BFA969-0482-42CF-9E1F-F80A1B32BEE9

• NAVAIR Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/NAVAIR

• NAVAIR Twitter pagewww.twitter.com/navairnews

• NAVAIR YouTube Sitewww.youtube.com/user/NAVAIRSYSCOM


on the other)? More testing will berequired to provide answers to thisquestion. Will the Fleet, wing andsquadron commanders accept anon-uniform nozzle appearance ontheir aircraft? Preliminary discus-sions with CNAF staff have indicatedtheir willingness to make thishappen. Safety of their personnel isparamount to all commanders.

The user community (the Fleet,CNAF), Commander Naval AirSystems Command, and PEO(T) allstrongly support this initiative and theF/A-18E/F and EA-18G Program Officeis committed to its introduction intothe Fleet. Should the results of thefinal installed static test meet thepass/fail criteria outlined above, thismay offer a viable solution and amandatory risk reduction effort inview of the documented incidence ofjet noise induced hearing lossincurred by Navy and Marine Corp

useful as an example of what a proac-tive, dedicated acquisition program canaccomplish. ESOH goals may oftentake a back seat to higher priority mili-tary performance objectives. In thisinstance, a serious safety and occupa-tional health problem (noise-inducedhearing loss) was identified; a commit-ment was made to investigate solu-tions; an achievable design thatshowed promise was identified; andresources were committed to demon-strate and validate the proposed solu-tion. This has required programleadership, dedication by a govern-ment/acquisition/industry team andhard work by systems engineeringpersonnel to make it happen. �

CONTACT

Stephen KeefeF/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office301-342-3482DSN: [email protected]

personnel. This technology mayreduce sound pressure levels to half ofthe current value, and will demon-strate the Navy’s commitment inaddressing one significant source ofhearing loss. The impact of this tech-nology is reduction in numbers ofNaval personnel diagnosed with longterm hearing loss, improvement ofworking conditions in high noise envi-ronments (e.g., U.S. Navy aircraftcarriers) and decreased Departmentof the Navy liability to inversecondemnation litigation caused by jetnoise. No other current research anddevelopment program addresses jetnoise at its source—the engine nozzleand exhaust plume.

CONCLUSIONAlthough the research, developmentand delivery of this technology to theuser, the Fleet, is incomplete, the narra-tive of the F/A-18 Program Office is

F/A-18C Hornets launch simultaneously from the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Photographer’s Mate Airman Ryan O’Connor

THE MONTH OF October mightbe designated by the Navy as ‘EnergyAction Month,’ but for Naval HospitalBremerton (NHB) staff members, it’salso a validation of the continuationof practices already in place thatmany active duty, civilian, contractorand American Red Cross volunteersmake part of their daily routine atwork and home.

“October as Energy Action Monthchallenges all of us to work togetherand my thanks to everyone for theconservation efforts thus far. Keep upthe great work and look for newways to conserve. Energy and waterconservation are critical to ourmission success. This year’s theme(Energy Action Equals MissionSuccess) speak to how critical energyis critical to the Navy mission.Energy is our greatest enabler andour greatest vulnerability. Every kilo-watt hour we save makes us moreresilient and increases our ability tosupport the warfighter,” said Capt.Christopher Quarles, NHBCommanding Officer.

NHB has also established a CommandEnergy Policy that engages allpersonnel daily to enhance energy effi-

ciency consciousness. The policyencourages every staff member totake the necessary steps to saveenergy such as keeping windows anddoors closed, turning lights off whennot in use, and prohibiting the non-essential use of personal refrigeratorsand heaters.

All during the month, staff membersand their efforts were profiled through

‘daily man-on-the-street’ interviewsabout what they are doing to reduceenergy usage at home and in theworkplace. Their responses andphotos, posted on the Command’sFacebook page (at www.facebook.com/pages/Naval-Hospital-Bremerton/163929576969000) have drawn posi-tive reviews and offer up a host ofcommon sense approaches.


Energy Conservation & Command InvolvementAbound at Naval Hospital BremertonEnergy Action Month Validates Ongoing Practices

says that “conserving energy is criticaland we all have to do our part. Whatwe do on a daily basis is ensure thatall lights are off before closing downfor the day, turn off all equipment thatis not in use, and keep track of theequipment that is left on for opera-tional use.”

“We recycle a lot of paper,” saidHospital Corpsman 3rd Class (FleetMarine Force) Angel Castilleja, Angelof TRICARE Operations. “I work in thehealthcare business so we deal with alot of paperwork. Everybody utilizesthose shred bins to recycle paper-work. I think that’s a big help. At mylast hospital, we didn’t have thoseshred bins.”

winter 2015 Currents 21Currents 21

Family Practice’s Hospital CorpsmanChief Mark Sizemore also practices athome what he preaches at work witha little financial incentive added intothe mix. “In order to teach mydaughter responsible energy use, Icharge her 25 cents every time sheleaves the light on at home,” Sizemoresaid. “When we began back this exer-cise (back in January 2014), I wouldcollect two to three dollars per monthfrom my daughter. But over the lastseveral months, I have collected lessthan a dollar a month. My now-11year old daughter is getting moreenergy conscious—turning the lightsoff when she leaves a room. I put themoney I’ve collected from her into our

The Basics About Naval Hospital Bremerton

NHB IS A community-based acute care and obstetrical hospital, offering expert primary care, emergency care and a broad range ofmedical and surgical specialties, with 23 inpatient beds. The hospital is conveniently located between Naval Base Kitsap (NBK)Bremerton and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and NBK Bangor. NHB is parent command for three Naval Branch Health Clinics andthe Puget Sound Family Medicine Residency Program. The three clinics are locatedat Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, NBK Bangor and Naval Station Everett.

NHB has a three-fold primary mission to support warfighters, past and present, andtheir families:

� Providing exceptional care anytime, anywhere.

� Shaping military medicine through training, research, and graduate medicaleducation.

� Preparing forces for deployment.

NHB and its clinic’s staff consist of approximately 1,400 dedicated military, civilian,contract and American Red Cross volunteer personnel.

For more information about NHB, visit www.med.navy.mil/sites/nhbrem.

“I shut off the lights, use the motionsensors lights at work, open up theblinds at home to bring in naturallight, and during the colder season Iuse sweaters instead of using the heatto stay warm,” shared Kim Arias ofNHB’s Laboratory department.

“I always make sure to turn off thelights and computers. We are alwaystrying to reduce the amount of trashthat we generate and recycle whatwe can to help conserve energy,”commented Hospital CorpsmanChristian Wallace of NHB’sEndoscopy department.

Logistics Specialist 1st Class SamuelKenyenso of Material Management

Every kilowatt hour we save makes us more resilient and increases our ability to support the warfighter.

—Capt. Christopher Quarles

household utility bill. If she doesn’tleave the lights on, she keeps herentire allowance and can save forwhatever she wants to buy.

Ramon Calantas of NHB’s Environ-mental Division attests that EnergyAction Month helps to highlightenergy successes at NHB such as thereduction of energy consumption andwater usage.

“With the installation of four newcondensing boilers in our heatingplant, we have reduced our naturalgas consumption this year by sixpercent, resulting in over $15,000 inannual energy cost savings. We haveinstalled advanced light emittingdiode (LED) lighting fixtures on theoutside of our buildings and areconducting pilot LED lighting studiesin our parking lots and elevatorlobbies, which save over $3,000annually in electricity costs. We havelighting controls in our restrooms andthat turn lights out when the facilitiesare unoccupied, which save over$1300 in electricity costs annually,”stated Calantas. The Command is alsoplanning to completely remodel theheating and ventilation systems andinstall more water efficient fixtures inour restrooms.

According to Robert E. Mitchell, NHB’sEnvironmental Sustainability ProgramManager and Command EnergyManager, some of the command’senergy conservation projects fallunder the radar, but still achieve thegoals of sound environmental stew-ardship and practical energy savings,as well as cost savings. Some exam-ples that Mitchell cited include apending lighting controller project forBuilding 17 which will have day-lighting controllers and occupancysensors installed in NHB’s corridorsand waiting areas. The command is


Hospital Corpsman Christian Wallace of NHB’s Endoscopy Department recycles trash in acontinuous effort to conserve energy on October 2, 2014. “I always make sure to turn off

the lights and computers. We are always trying to reduce the amount of trash that we generate and recycle what we can to help conserve energy,” said Wallace.

MC1 James Coyle

FROM LEFT: Logistic Specialist 2nd Class Richmond Voss, is assisted by Logistic Specialist SeamanEmily Jaske and Logistic Specialist 3rd Class Jessica Arredondo of NHB’s Central Supply and

Replenishment department as they sort through supplies on October 2, 2014. “The hospital’smotion detection lights automatically turn off room lights—a good energy conservation method.

We also continue to monitor all the stock at NHB to eliminate any unnecessary purchases which leads to greater efficiency and ultimately better energy conservation,” said Voss.

MC1 James Coyle


With regards to cost savings, NHB ResourceConservation Manager John Payne noted thatalong with occupancy sensor installations inoffices and exam rooms, the Command’sheating, ventilation, and air conditioning systemreplacements and upgrades for NHB’s mainfacility and adjacent Family Practice wing willhave an estimated savings of 12 percent ofyearly electrical use and 16 percent of naturalgas use for a total of $155,157 cost savings.

“We need everyone’s participation to reduce ourconsumption of energy and become a part of thesolution. We can achieve success, reach our energygoals, and ensure energy security when we changeindividual behavior and make NHB a more effi-

cient workplace that provides increased comfort for ourworkers and patients. Everyone can help conserve energyand water to meet our energy and water reduction goals andcontribute to the Navy’s mission,” Quarles said. �

CONTACT

Douglas Stutz Naval Hospital Bremerton 360-475-4665DSN: [email protected]

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Danny Browning of NHB’s Family Practice departmentsitting at his work station. “I conserve energy by sitting in the dark and use desklights at work instead of the overhead lights,” explained Browning. MC2 Zulema Sotelo

also installing room darkening roller shades in patientrooms and waiting areas on several upper level floors.

“Although no energy cost savings have been calculated,these rooms face east and west and are subject to brightsunlight. The shades will help block the sun’s radiant heatinto the rooms and should reduce the cooling load,” statedPaula McAvoy, NHB Facilities Management projectmanager. Similar roller shades are also being installed insouth facing windows at Branch Health Clinic Puget SoundNaval Shipyard.

Kim Arias of NHB’s Laboratory preparing to take blood froma patient. “I shut off the lights, use the motion sensor lightsat work, open up the blinds at home to bring in naturallight, and during the colder season I use sweaters instead ofusing the heat to stay warm,” said Arias. MC1 Gretchen Albrecht

Logistic Specialist 1st Class Samuel Kenyenso of NHB’s Material Managementdepartment studies some paperwork at his workstation. “Conserving energy iscritical and we all have to do our part. What we do on a daily basis is ensure that all lights are off before closing down for the day, turn off all equipment that is not in use, and keep track of the equipment that is left on for operational use,” he said. MC2 Zulema Sotelo

The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Environmental andEnergy & Water awards return to the Currents calendarstage for 2015-2016. Continuing with our 18-month format,we present the winners of each of the SECNAV awards andkeep you covered through June 2016. Each month alsoincludes an interesting tidbit related to an award winner.

Here are a few of the items you can expect to see:

May 2015: A rare sea turtle nests in a rare location atOceana Dam Neck Annex and Mrs. Michael Wrightknows what to do to protect the nest.

October 2015: Marine Corps Air Station Miramaremploys the landfill to generate power and reducegreenhouse gas emissions.

March 2016: Naval Air Station Cecil Field restorationteam’s fast-track cleanup gets 99 percent of the propertyinto recreational, educational and commercial use.

April 2016: USS Peleliu (LHA 5) saves 37,231 barrels offuel, which translates to more than eight million poundsof reduced carbon emission.

June 2016: The F/A-18 program office (PMA265) wraps upthe calendar with significant noise reduction techniques.

As the Navy’s official energy andenvironmental magazine, Currentshas the privilege to share the manyways the Navy’s energy and envi-ronmental personnel and Sailorswork to find and implement thebest techniques to achieve theirgoals. Currents provides a forumin which all of you can shareyour knowledge and successeswith your colleagues.

If you subscribe to Currents, you should be receiving your2015–16 calendar very shortly. If you don’t receive yourcalendar in the new fewweeks, contact Lorraine Wass,our distribution manager, at [email protected] or 207-384-5249 to request a copy.And don’t forget to check us outonline at http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/currents-magazine.

Highlights Environment & Energy Savers

facebook.com/navycurrents

twitter.com/navycurrents

flickr.com/photos/navycurrents

Thanks for all of your great workand we look forward to seeing morefrom you in the pages of Currents!


SERDP & ESTCP Announce 2014Projects of the Year

Awards Showcase Program Successes

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE Strategic Environ-mental Research and Development Program (SERDP)and Environmental Security Technology CertificationProgram (ESTCP) Projects of the Year, recognized forresearch and technology developments with signifi-cant benefits to the Department of Defense (DoD).These outstanding efforts are helping DoD enhance itsmission capabilities, improve its environmental andenergy performance, and reduce costs. Details abouttheir award-winning projects are available on theSERDP and ESTCP website at www.serdp-estcp.org/News-and-Events/News-Announcements/Program-News/SERDP-and-ESTCP-announce-2014-Projects-of-the-Year.

Recipients of this prestigious honor are as follows.

SERDP Projects of the Year

Environmental Restoration

Basic Research Addressing Contaminants in Low Perme-ability Zones (ER-1740)

Dr. Tom Sale, Colorado State University

Munitions Response

Decision Support Tools for Munitions Response Perfor-mance Prediction and Risk Assessment (MR-2226)

Dr. Laurens Beran, Black Tusk Geophysics

Resource Conservation & Climate Change

Shoreline Evolution and Coastal Resiliency at Two Mili-tary Installations: Investigating the Potential for andImpacts of Loss of Protecting Barriers (RC-1702)

Dr. Rob L. Evans, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Weapons Systems & Platforms

Design-of-Experiment Approach to Hydrogen Re-Embrit-tlement Evaluation (WP-2152)

Mr. Scott M. Grendahl, U.S. Army Research Laboratory

ESTCP Projects of the Year

Energy and Water

Rapid Building Assessment (EW-201261)

Mr. Swapnil Shah, FirstFuel Software

Environmental Restoration

Use of On-Site Gas Chromatograph/Mass SpectrometerAnalysis to Distinguish Between Vapor Intrusion and IndoorSources of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) (ER-201119)

Use of Compound-Specific Stable Isotope Analysis to Distin-guish Between Vapor Intrusion and Indoor Sources of VOCs(ER-201025)

Dr. Thomas McHugh, GSI Environmental Inc.

Munitions Response

Hand-Held Electromagnetic Induction Sensor for CuedUnexploded Ordnance (UXO) Discrimination (MR-200807)

Man-Portable Electromagnetic Induction Array for UXODetection and Discrimination (MR-200909)

Dr. Dan Steinhurst, Nova Research, Inc.,Dr. Tom Bell, LeidosMr. Glenn Harbaugh, Nova Research, Inc.

Weapons Systems & Platforms

Electrodeposition of Nanocrystalline Cobalt-PhosphorusCoatings as a Hard Chrome Alternative (WP-200936)

Mr. Ruben A. Prado and Mr. Jack Benfer, Fleet ReadinessCenter Southeast

Visit the SERDP and ESTCP blog at https://serdp-estcp.org/News-and-Events/Blog to read the blog entries about each ofthese award-winning projects.

SERDP is DoD’s environmental science and technologyprogram, planned and executed in partnership with theDepartment of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protec-tion Agency, with participation by numerous other Federaland non-Federal organizations. The Program focuses oncross-service requirements and pursues solutions to theDepartment’s environmental challenges while enhancingand sustaining military readiness.

ESTCP is DoD’s environmental technology demonstration andvalidation program. Projects conduct formal demonstrations atDoD facilities and sites in operational settings to document andvalidate improved performance and cost savings. Demonstra-tion results are subject to rigorous technical reviews to ensurethat the conclusions are accurate and well supported by data.

For more information, please visit www.serdp-estcp.org. �

CONTACT

Lucia ValentinoSERDP and ESTCP Support [email protected]

trendsof the environment

2014 Navy Community ServiceEnvironmental Stewardship FlagshipAward Winners Announced

Navy Commands Engage in Exemplary Voluntary Community Service that PromotesEnvironmental Stewardship

THE NAVY ANNOUNCED the winners and honor-able mentions in the 2014 Navy Community ServiceEnvironmental Stewardship Flagship Awards onNovember 18, 2014.

Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Fleet Readiness andLogistics (N4) Vice Admiral Philip H. Cullom released anaval message listing the awardees. In the naval message,Cullom saluted the awardees.

“Your outstanding actions embody the Navy’s commit-ment to protecting the environment and enhancing ourrelations with our neighbors and local communities,” saidCullom. “Please accept my personal bravo zulu and thanksfor your continued support of our Navy’s communityservice program.”

The 2014 winners by category are as follows:

Shore command category:

� Small (under 200 personnel): Navy Environmental andPreventative Medicine Unit 2, Norfolk, Virginia

� Large (500 or more personnel): Naval Base Coronado,California

Sea command category:

� Small: Fleet Ballistic Missile Operational Test SupportUnit 2, Cape Canaveral, Florida

� Medium (200 to 499 personnel): Helicopter SeaCombat Squadron 23, San Diego, California

� Large: USS America (LHA 6)

Overseas command category:

� Large: Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti.

Commands receiving honorable mentions include:

� Small shore command: Naval Aviation SchoolsCommand, Pensacola, Florida

� Large shore command: Naval Air Station WhidbeyIsland, Washington

� Small sea command: 21st Dental Company, MarineCorps Base Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii

Examples of winning initiatives include organizingeducational community outreach events, recycling andparticipating in environmental conservation andenhancement projects, such as environmental clean-ups,shoreline restoration, tree and shrub plantings and inva-sive species removal.

Award winners will receive commemorative plaques, andhonorable mentions will receive signed certificates from N4.

The Environmental Stewardship Flagship, which is spon-sored by N4, is one of five flagships in the Navy Commu-nity Service program. The other four flagships are:

1. Personal Excellence Partnership

2. Project Good Neighbor

3. Campaign Drug Free

4. Health, Safety and Fitness

For additional information about the Navy’s energy, environment, and climate change initiatives, visithttp://greenfleet.dodlive.mil. �

CONTACT

Ashley TolbertChief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division703-695-5115DSN: [email protected]



USS America (LHA 6) won the 2014 Navy Community Service EnvironmentalStewardship Flagship Award in the sea command, large ship category.



Nominations Sought for CNO Environmental Awards

Submissions Were Due January 9, 2015

REAR ADMIRAL KEVIN SLATES, director of Navy’sEnergy and Environmental Readiness Division (OPNAVN45), issued a formal call for nominations to Echelon IIcommands on September 10, 2014 to solicit nominationsfor the fiscal year (FY) 2014 Chief of Naval Operations(CNO) Environmental Awards competition.

Each year the CNO honorsNavy ships, installations,teams, and individuals foroutstanding work in Navy envi-ronmental programs. Awardscategories alternate annuallybased on a two-year cycle(between odd and even fiscalyears). The achievementperiod for the FY 2014 compe-tition is October 1, 2012through September 30, 2014.

Award nominations must besent via command channels/Echelon II commands toOPNAV N45. The deadline tosubmit nominations is 11:59p.m. Eastern Standard TimeJanuary 9, 2015.

Echelon II commands maysubmit nominations for eachof the following 11 award categories:

1. Natural Resources, Large Installation

2. Environmental Quality, Industrial Installation

3. Environmental Quality, Overseas Installation

4. Sustainability, Non-industrial Installation

5. Sustainability, Individual/Team

6. Environmental Restoration, Installation

7. Cultural Resources Management, Small Installation

8. Cultural Resources Management, Individual/Team

9. Environmental Excellence in Weapon System Acquisi-tion, Small Program, Individual/Team

10. Environmental Planning, Team

11. Afloat (includes five competitive sub-categories)

Environmental experts from the government and privatesector will evaluate nominations and determine winners atthe CNO level of competition. CNO winners will advanceto the Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) EnvironmentalAwards competition. Likewise, with the exception ofwinners in the Environmental Afloat and EnvironmentalPlanning categories-which are unique to the CNO and

SECNAV levels of competition-eligible SECNAV winners willadvance to the Secretary of Defense EnvironmentalAwards competition.

For more information about the CNO EnvironmentalAwards program and a list of past winners, visithttp://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/environment/awards. �

CONTACT

Ashley TolbertChief of Naval Operations

Energy and Environmental Readiness Division703-695-5116DSN: [email protected]

Previous CNO Ennironmental Award winner (Sustainability, Non-industrial Installation) Naval Base San Diego funded and executed photovoltaic projects to reduce energy use.

Adrianna delos Santos



NAVSUP Launches ChemicalCompatibility Program

New Program Ensures Compatibility of HazardousMaterial Product Storage

PERSONNEL FROM THE Naval Supply SystemsCommand (NAVSUP) are launching the Chemical Compat-ibility Program (CCP) to help Sailors safely storehazardous materials. The ships use numerous chemicalsthat can react with each other and cause fires if they arestored improperly.

Hazardous Material Control and Management (HMC&M)is one of the most critical and diverse Product andService (P&S) lines provided to the Fleet by GlobalLogistic Services (GLS) and all the Fleet Logistic Centers(FLC) worldwide. Products containing hazardousmaterials are used every day throughout the Navyduring the maintenance, preservation, cleaningand upkeep of Navy assets. As a result, Sailorsmust determine how to safely store hazardousmaterials.

With help from the Naval Sea Systems Command,Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV), theNavy Safety Center, NAVSUP Headquarters,NAVSUP Weapon Systems Support, and the TypeCommanders, NAVSUP GLS personnel developedthe CCP to help those Sailors make the properstorage determinations.

Due to the corrosive, reactive, and flammable“hazardous” nature of many products, special care isrequired by all hands. It is each Sailor’s responsibilityto determine which materials may be storedtogether and which materials should be segregated

to minimize the risk of an unfavorable reaction. This is amanual and time consuming process that, by its verynature, is subject to human error.

To reduce the potential for that error and minimize therisks associated with other storage issues, the CCP wasdeveloped and has been incorporated into theHazardous Inventory Control System (HICSWIN) soft-ware (version 3.0). When a National Item IdentificationNumber (NIIN) is entered into HICSWIN, it assigns aHazardous Characteristic Code (HCC) to that item. TheHCC is the key element to determine where an itemshould be stored so that it will be stored in a locationthat is compatible with other items stored in the samearea. Using the assigned HCC, the HICSWIN softwareassigns a color to that NIIN. It is this color code that theuser will use to ensure that the item is stored withcompatible items.

It is each Sailor’s responsibility to determine which materials may be stored together and which materials should be

segregated to minimize the risk of an unfavorable reaction.



The CCP assigns color codes to National Stock Numbers(NSN) by Hazardous Characteristic Code (HCC) groupingsthat have been determined compatible for storage. Theprogram is user friendly even taking into account colorblind personnel. (To accommodate color blind personnel,a description of the color (e.g., red, light blue) also appearsalong with the color assigned to a NIIN.) Storage locationsare color coded during the implementation process andNSNs with the same color codes are placed within thecorresponding locations.

HICSWIN 3.0 takes the CCP one step further by generatinga chemical compatibility report to be run at the durationsdefined by the Hazardous Material Officer or supervisor. Awarning is generated at the receipt or transfer of materialif locations and materials are incompatible.

Every ship has a Consolidated Hazardous Material Reutilization and Inventory Management Program(CHRIMP) technician who will be spearheading thisinitiative and implementing these two critical systems

(HICSWIN 3.0 and the actual process to implement CCP)across all Navy ship classes in all homeports. The CCPwas incorporated into the hazardous materials manage-ment procedures aboard all ships and upgraded toHICSWIN 3.0 from a previous version of HICSWIN.

Questions about the CCP or HICSWIN upgrades should bedirected to the appropriate ship CHRIMP technician, theNAVSUP GLS hazardous materials lead or Jehdia Bottinelliat the information provided. �

CONTACTS

Michelle DangNaval Supply Systems Command717-605-1822DSN: [email protected]

Jehdia BottinelliNaval Supply Systems [email protected]

Products containing hazardous materials are used throughout the Navyduring the maintenance, preservation, cleaning and upkeep of Navy assets. As a result, Sailors must determine how to safely store hazardous materials.MC2 James R. Evans

Ground Source Heat PumpsImprove Energy Efficiency in the Northwest

Naval Base Kitsap Finds Success with RenewableEnergy System

A NEW GROUND source heat pump system came on-line in the fall of 2014 at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton,Bachelor Enlisted Quarters (Building 1001) using theNavy’s Energy Conservation Investment Program fundingto cover the costs of installation.

Ground source heat pump technology uses the relativelyconstant temperature of the Earth to provide buildingheating and cooling via a heat exchange system. The effi-ciency of ground source systems is considerably higherthan that of traditional air source systems, and groundsource heat pump systems are considered a renewableenergy technology.

The first system installed under the same project cameon-line in the fall of 2013 at Building 1044, and is oper-ating effectively and efficiently through its first heatingand cooling seasons. Ground source heat pumpsprovided approximately 80 percent of the building’s heatrequirement and base steam provided the remaining 20percent when outside temperatures were the coldest.Such hybrid systems are often the best option for theNorthwest’s climate. The hybrid configuration allows theheat exchange piping to be sized to cover the load mostof the time, rather than all of the time. It significantlyreduces the installation cost while still providing most ofthe efficiency benefit. Building 1044’s ground sourceheat pump system provides both heating and cooling forthe facility.

Ground source heat pump systems require drilling wells orexcavating the grounds surrounding the building to installheat exchange piping, which makes the first cost consider-ably higher than for other heating and cooling options.Buildings without sufficient land adjacent for the heatexchange piping are not candidates for the technology.

According to the Department of Energy, ground sourceheat pump systems use 25 to 50 percent less electricitythan conventional heating or cooling systems, andcompared to air source heat pumps, they are quieter,



Ground Source Heat Pump Cost & Savings

Initiative/Project Cost Annual Annual Energy Annual Water Simple Payback Cost Savings MBTU Savings KGAL Savings (Years)

Install Ground Source $3,577,015 $301,345 22,853 1,635 11.9Heat Pumps atBachelor Quarters(Buildings 1001 and 1044)

MBTU = million British thermal units, KGAL = thousand gallons

Naval Base Kitsap Installation Energy Manager Paul Songe-Moller and Resource Efficiency Manager Brian Dimak check readings

at the source, in the Building 1044 mechanical room, in preparation for the measurement and verification

phase of the ground source heat pump system project.

last longer, need little maintenance, and do not depend onthe temperature of the outside air.

Naval Base Kitsap has had previous success with this basictechnology. Systems installed under the Fiscal Year 2010Energy Savings Performance contract for six buildings atNaval Base Kitsap’s Keyport site have shown reduced main-tenance and improved comfort over the previous systems.

Additionally, a system that exchanges heat directly withthe Hood Canal, a large and deep body of salt water adja-cent to Naval Base Kitsap’s Bangor site, has been in opera-tion for ten years. Other attempts to install systems thatexchange heat directly in salt water have not proven viablein the Northwest. The main reasons have been the greaterexpense of heat exchangers that can withstand the corro-sive nature of salt water, and environmental concerns overpotentially changing the temperature of specific areas inthe waters of Puget Sound where systems were consid-ered. Bremerton and Keyport sites are located on thePuget Sound rather than the Hood Canal. One unusualfactor that made the Bangor salt water system economi-

cally viable was that it was not practical to extend naturalgas to the location, and the facility was previously heatedwith expensive electric resistance heat.

Ground source heat pumps are classified as a renewableenergy technology, which could help the Navy meet Exec-utive Ordered renewable energy goals. Since most renew-able energy technologies have relatively long paybacks,ground source heat pump systems may compete well iffunding becomes available specifically for renewableenergy projects.

When the facility is a good candidate for the technology,ground source heat pumps are one of the most economi-cally viable renewable energy options for the Northwest. �

CONTACT

Leslie Yuenger Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest360-396-6387DSN: [email protected]

fall 2014 Currents 31


Do you have a good story to tell about your energy or environ -mental accomplishments and want to share it with others?Currents, the Navy’s official energy and environmental magazine,has won first place in the Navy’s Chief of Information Merit awardscompetition three times. So it’s a great place to tell your story.

If you have a story that you’d like us to consider for our summer2015 issue, you need to submit your article and images by Friday,April 17, 2015. Any submissions received after this date will beconsidered for our fall 2015 issue.

You can get a copy of the Currents article template by sending an email to Bruce McCaffrey, our Managing Editor, [email protected]. And if writing isn’t one of yourstrengths, don’t worry about it. Bruce and his team will handle allof the editing necessary to get your story into publishable form.

Bruce is also available at 773-376-6200 if you have any questionsor would like to discuss your story ideas.

As a reminder, your Public Affairs Officer must approve your articlebefore Currents can consider it for inclusion in the magazine.

Don’t forget to “like” Currents on Facebook at www.facebook/navycurrents. Currents’ Facebook page helps expand the reach ofthe magazine and spread the news about all the great work you’redoing as the Navy’s energy and environmental guardians.

Your experiences take on new meaning when you share themwith Currents readers and on Facebook.

Currents DeadlinesSummer 2015 Issue: Friday, April 17, 2015Fall 2015 Issue: Friday, July 17, 2015Winter 2016 Issue: Friday, October 16, 2015Spring 2016 Issue: Friday, January 15, 2016

You can also refer to your Currents calendar for remindersabout these deadlines.

Tell Your Story in Currents • Due Date for Summer 2015 Issue Submissions is April 17, 2015



The series is currently scheduledthrough May 2015. Initial webinarstopics have included vapor intrusionassessments at contaminated sites,new tools for advancing the under-standing of marine mammal behavioral ecology, waste toenergy technologies, energy audits and the management ofcontaminated sediment sites. Following the completion ofeach live webinar, archives of the presentation and audio willbe available online. Future planned webinar topics includedense non-aqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) source zonemanagement, acoustic methods for underwater munitions,solar technologies, lead free electronics and many others.

To view the complete schedule of upcoming webinars and access archived files of past webinars, visitwww.serdp-estcp.org/Tools-and-Training/Webinar-Series.

SERDP is the Department of Defense’s (DoD) environmentalscience and technology program, planned and executed inpartnership with the Department of Energy and the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency, with participation by

Join SERDP and ESTCP for anUpcoming Webinar

Promoting the Transfer of Innovative, Cost Effective &Sustainable Solutions

THE STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL Research andDevelopment Program (SERDP) and the EnvironmentalSecurity Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) havelaunched a webinar series to promote the transfer of inno-vative, cost effective and sustainable solutions developedby SERDP and ESTCP. The series targets the end users,including practitioners, the regulatory community andresearchers. The primary objective of the series is toprovide the end users with cutting-edge and practicalinformation from sponsored research and technologydemonstrations in an easily accessible format at no cost tothe participant.

The webinars are held approximately every two weeks onThursdays from 12:00 to 1:30 PM Eastern time. Eachwebinar features distinguished speakers from one ofSERDP and ESTCP’s five program areas:

1. Energy and Water

2. Environmental Restoration

3. Munitions Response

4. Resource Conservation and Climate Change

5. Weapons Systems and Platforms

Future planned webinar topics include acoustic methods for

underwater munitions, solar technologies, lead freeelectronics and many others.

WEBINAR SERIES SCHEDULE FEBRUARY–MAY 2015

Date Webinars Presenters

February 5, 2015 Acoustic Methods for Underwater Munitions Dr. Joseph Bucaro (Naval Research Laboratory)Dr. Kevin Williams (APL University of Washington)

February 19, 2015 Solar TechnologiesMarch 5, 2015 Lead Free Electronics Dr. Peter Borgesen (Binghamton University, The State University of New York)

Dr. Stephan Meschter (BAE Systems)March 19, 2015 Bioremediation Approaches at Chlorinated Ms. Carmen Lebrón (Private Consultant)

Solvent Sites Dr. John Wilson (Scissortail Environmental Solutions, LLC)Dr. Robert Hinchee (Integrated Science and Technology, Inc.)

March 26, 2015 Resource Conservation and Climate ChangeApril 16, 2015 Blast Noise Measurements and Community Mr. Jeffrey Allanach (Applied Physical Sciences Corp.)

Response Dr. Edward Nykaza (U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center)May 7, 2015 Munitions MobilityMay 28, 2015 Managing Munition Constituents on Training Dr. Paul Hatzinger (CB&I Federal Services)

Ranges Dr. Thomas Jenkins (Thomas Jenkins Environmental Consulting)

numerous other Federal and non-Federal organizations. Theprogram focuses on cross-service requirements and pursuessolutions to the Department’s environmental challengeswhile enhancing and sustaining military readiness.

ESTCP is DoD’s environmental technology demonstrationand validation program. Projects conduct formal demon-strations at DoD facilities and sites in operational settingsto document and validate improved performance and costsavings. Demonstration results are subject to rigorous tech-

nical reviews to ensure that the conclusions are accurateand well supported by data.

For more information, visit www.serdp-estcp.org. �

CONTACT

Lucia ValentinoSERDP and ESTCP Support [email protected]



Navy Launches “Energy Warrior”Campaign

New App Showcases Sailors, Projects That Can Disruptthe Future of Energy

IN SEPTEMBER 2014, the Navy released a new digitalpublication (app) called “Energy Warrior” that highlightsthe efforts of Sailors and other naval personnel who aretaking innovative steps to conserve energy, lead behavioralchange, and get the maximum warfighting punch out ofevery gallon. The current app can be downloaded andinstalled for free for use on Mac and Android tablets.

Related videos are posted on an Energy Warrior playlist onthe U.S. Navy YouTube channel. Short summary videosare being provided to Armed Forces Radio and TelevisionService (AFRTS) channels and can be viewed aboard shipsvia Direct-to-Sailor (DTS) beginning this month.

Videos in this version of the app include profiles of FireControlman Chief Petty Officer Christopher Roberts, whostarted a competition aboard USS Benfold (DDG 65) that isoptimizing shipboard energy use; retired Marine Corpsinfantry officer Eric McElvenny, who helps retired militarypersonnel transition to energy-related careers through theTroops to Engineers/Energy Systems Technology Evalua-tion (ESTEP) Program; and Matt Schreck, energy programmanager for Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, who isseeking ways to reduce energy waste to better support thewarfighter on the front lines.

The app also provides facts about worldwide energy use,U.S. oil production, and Navy’s ongoing energy projectsthat are supportive of the Secretary of the Navy and Chiefof Naval Operations energy goals.

“Energy isn’t somethingmost of us walk aroundthinking about every day—we just power up our equip-ment and get to work,” saidRear Admiral Kevin Slates,director of the Chief of Naval Operations Energy andEnvironmental Readiness Division. “This app and relatedvideos can help our Sailors and civilians understand howtruly critical energy is, both to our daily jobs and toenable combat capability through greater distance,increased time on station, and the ability to carry moreand new payloads.”

Plans are underway for additional video profile interviewsfor a future version of the app. Commands with innovativeenergy projects, people, and ideas are encouraged to contactthe Navy’s energy team at [email protected].

For additional information, visit the Energy Warrior pageat http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/energy/energywarrior. �

CONTACT

Kenneth HessChief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division703-695-5077DSN: [email protected]

This app and related videos can helpour Sailors and civilians understand

how truly critical energy is.—Rear Admiral Kevin Slates

ALMOST FROM THE moment thefirst coconut rhinoceros beetles (CRB)were found on a Joint Base PearlHarbor-Hickam (JBPHH) golf course atthe end of 2013, a team of local,state, and federal agencies has beenworking to remove the invasiveinsect, which feeds on palm trees.The Navy and Air Force play a majorpart in this work, particularly as thebeetle’s breeding grounds have beenfound predominantly on JBPHH.

Cooperation between the militaryand other government bodies is keyto limiting the spread of the CRB aswell designing innovative ways toeliminate it entirely. While it is diffi-cult to say how successful this effortwill be, there is no question thatcollaboration has helped so far tocheck yet another invasive speciesin Hawaii.

“The state of Hawaii and the Navy areapproaching this challenge as ateam,” said Rear Admiral RickWilliams, Commander Navy RegionHawaii and Naval Surface GroupMiddle Pacific. “We realized thepotential effects this pest can have onour installations and on Oahu. So wejoined forces quickly and took action

immediately with state and otherfederal agencies. We are providingmanpower, resources, expertise andpublic awareness to stop the spread ofthe CRB on Oahu.”

The ecology of Hawaii is fragile andthe introduction of invasive species,whether accidental or otherwise, hasbeen a major problem throughout itshistory. Many native organisms,having evolved in isolation from therest of the world, cannot competewith or survive invasive species.Therefore, the state of Hawaii has had

to be vigilant in preventing newanimals and plants from settling inand around the Islands. Some exam-ples of other invasive species thatHawaii has struggled to stop are thecoqui tree frog, the little fire ant, andthe Australian tree fern. In manyinstances the introduced organismshave been destructive to local popula-tions of native organisms, hazards topeople, and nuisances in other ways.Ironically, the mongoose, introducedmore than a century ago to controlrats, is suspected of eating the CRB,


JBPHH Joins the Team to Fight CoconutRhinoceros BeetleInvasive Insect Poses Real Threat to Hawaii’s Palm Trees

The coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros). Hawaii Department of Agriculture


as remains of beetle shells have been found near nestswith mongoose-size tooth marks in them.

The beetle has been found in various locations onJBPHH, which is adjacent to Honolulu InternationalAirport, and in several places off-base since the initialdiscovery, but so far the nests have only been found onfederal property.

The CRB (Oryctes rhinoceros) also known as the Asiaticrhinoceros beetle, is a member of the scarab family andoriginally comes from Southeast Asia. The beetle has ahard black shell with a horn on its head. Males havelarger horns. Adult beetles are nocturnal and can grow tomore than two inches long. The CRB feeds on coconutpalm trees as well as oil palms and other palm species.The CRB can often kill a palm tree when feeding on it,which makes it verydestructive for Pacificisland ecosystems.

Guam has experienced aparticularly extensive infes-tation of the CRB that haskilled off about half of thatisland’s coconut palm trees.In the case of Hawaii, theloss of coconut palm treescould affect tourism, whichis Hawaii’s primaryindustry. The iconic tree iswidely recognized as asymbol for the state. Thecoconut itself is not a signif-icant resource for the localeconomy, but its destruc-tion would affect smallbusinesses that sell locallyharvested coconuts.

The adult CRB will dig holes into the base of palm tree branches to eat.Too much of this damage can kill the tree. Hawaii Department of Agriculture

Feeding damage in V-shaped pattern left on leaves by the CRB.

We realized the potential effects this pest can have on our installations

and on Oahu. So we joined forcesquickly and took action immediately

with state and other federal agencies.—Rear Admiral Rick Williams

The coconut rhinoceros beetle wasfirst discovered in a trap on JBPHHon December 23, 2013. In January2014, CRB eggs, larvae, and adultswere confirmed to be present in alarge mulch pile on the Morale,Welfare and Recreation (MWR)Mamala Bay Golf Course on base.The first beetles were identified by aCooperative Agricultural Pest Surveyby the U.S. Department of Agriculture(USDA) Plant Protection and Quaran-tine (PPQ) program and University ofHawaii (UH). Shortly thereafter, inci-dent responders met with militaryfacility personnel from JBPHH and aunified command was formed by theHawaii Department of Agriculture(HDOA) with PPQ to work on eradi-cating the beetle infestation. NavyRegion Hawaii, which includesJBPHH, joined a coordinated effort to combat the CRB aspart of a team, along with experts from USDA, FederalFire Department Hawaii, and the Hawaii Department ofLand and Natural Resources. The team from JBPHHincludes military and civilian personnel from both theNavy and the Air Force.

This team has been working to prevent the spread of theCRB and eventually remove it from the island of Oahucompletely. Rob Curtiss, HDOA acting Plant Pest Branchcontrol manager, says the work is being shared by allagencies involved. “HDOA and USDA are operating in aunified command structure, with HDOA as the leadagency. The other agencies are serving a variety of func-tions (DLNR is acting as project liaison. UH is provideresearch support. OISC is providing survey support whileJBPHH are playing many differentroles.),” Curtiss explains.He continues, “This level of collaboration is unique, butnot unprecedented. This is the first time that I am awareof that HDOA, JBPHH, and USDA have worked so closelyto combat an invasive species problem, though there havebeen tabletop exercises preparing everyone for this exactthing. HDOA also has a multi-agency response to the littlefire ant on Oahu and on Maui.”

Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), Hawaiiexperts have been assisting the rest of the team to removethe CRB by constructing traps to place in areas where the


Boring holes made by the CRB on the trunk of a coconut tree.

More than 1,300 panel traps have been placed around the island of Oahu to catch adult CRB. Hawaii Department of Agriculture


CRB has been observed. There aretwo main types of traps being used—panel traps and barrel traps. Thepanel traps, by far the more commontype, were purchased and puttogether by USDA and the Animal andPlant Health Inspection Service(APHIS) and can be seen hangingfrom large tree limbs. Many of thebarrel traps were constructed bySeabees from the ConstructionBattalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU)303 Detachment at JBPHH. Barreltraps are larger than the panel trapsand placed on military or state land toavoid theft.

Dr. Cory Campora, a natural resourcesspecialist at NAVFAC Hawaii, has beena part of this team from the start.

“The panel traps are basically a designthat USDA APHIS uses for agriculturalpest surveys, with the addition of anaggregating pheromone and ultraviolet(UV) light,” Campora said.

The barrel traps were designed byCRB researchers on Guam.

“The barrel traps actually havedecaying green waste in the bottomto help attract adult beetles, in addi-tion to the UV light and thepheromone lure. The UV lights aresolar powered and help to draw thebeetles into the trap similar to howmoths are drawn to lights at night,”said Campola.

Campora added, “NAVFAC iscommitted to continue assisting theCRB effort. We are working onprocuring air curtain burners to miti-

Nests containing CRB larvae havebeen discovered in a variety of mulchpiles composed of materials such astree trimmings, grass cuttings, andwood chippings. An initial measurethat was devised to limit the growthof the CRB population was to grindthe mulch being used as nestingmaterial in a tub grinder. While thiswould not be an efficient means ofdestroying the eggs, it would kill alllarvae and a significant number ofadults—essentially buying time forthe team, as CRB can spend severalmonths in these early life stages. Notall adults are killed in this process, asthe disturbance of the nest causessome adult beetles to fly away fromthe mulch pile and return aftergrinding is complete. Once the mulch

gate solid green waste such as palmand other tree logs, palm fronds,branches and other green waste thathas not yet been mulched or chipped.NAVFAC is also working oncontracting additional labor to assistwith trap monitoring and mainte-nance, and is working on methods toaddress all potential CRB breedingareas on JBPHH.”

Several ideas were first considered tomitigate the problem of the CRBinfestation. Some insecticides weretested, including Talstar, cypermethrin,and bromomethane. However, whenthese were used on the CRB adultsand larvae they were all found to beineffective, so treatment of nests withthe insecticides was halted.

We are optimistic that we can eradicate coconut rhinoceros beetles from Hawaii, but it will require all of our effort and expertise.

—Rob Curtiss

Utilitiesman 2nd Class (SCW) Justin McNairn from Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 303 Detachment at JBPHH builds a CRB barrel trap. Denise Emsley

is ground twice, it is covered with atarp to guard against beetles reestab-lishing a nest. When new CRB nestsare discovered on base, they arequickly ground twice and covered toawait further treatment.

As a substitute for burning the groundmulch, NAVFAC Hawaii proposed theidea of using composting to extermi-nate all life stages of the CRB. Two 40-cubic-yard roll-off containers weresimply configured as in-vesselcomposting reactors. This includedusing 4-inch perforated pipe attachedto electrical fans which provideatmospheric air during thecomposting process. As the materialis loaded into the container, it issprayed with a nitrogen rich fertilizerto promote rapid thermophilicbacteria growth. The temperatureswithin the container reach as high as170 degrees Farenheit (°F) within 70to 80 hours. Laboratory research indi-cated that at a temperature of 140°Ffor one hour, a mortality rate of 100percent was achieved for both larvaland adult CRB. Live CRB larvae andadults were placed on top of themulch in an active in-vessel reactorand all were found dead within two

hours. Composting of infested mulchis presently continuing and is beingused as the treatment for greenwaste. Burning of larger green wastesuch palm tree fronds and trunksusing an air-curtain burner is beingpursued. Different methods ofburning the mulch will be explored tosupplement the current in-vesselcomposting program.

The Navy and Air Force continue toprovide support to the CRB project invarious ways.

Campora said, “The NAVFAC Environ-mental Services Pest Control Shop,Naval Environmental and PreventiveMedicine Unit 6 (NEPMU-6), andMWR staff at Mamala Bay Golf Courseare working closely with HDOA toassume the responsibility of checkingand maintaining all CRB traps onJBPHH. The NAVFAC Hawaii Environ-mental Department provides technicalexpertise in various areas, includingsolid waste disposal (green wastemanagement), air (burning permits),


Mulch containing CRB larvae is ground twice in a tub grinder to kill later life stages of the beetle. CAPT Mike Williams

Mulch is covered after it has been ground twice to prevent beetles from re-establishing a nest. Hawaii Department of Agriculture


and natural resources (invasive species response). NAVFACHawaii also works closely with landscaping contractors toensure that necessary contract modifications arecompleted for changes in green waste handling anddisposal practices and provides oversight to confirm thatproper green waste procedures are being followed.”

On April 4, 2014, the USDA devoted $2.4 million from theAgricultural Act of 2014 for the CRB program in Hawaii.The Hawaii Invasive Species Council received $500,000for Fiscal Year 2015 to support the program. Additionally,

the Navy has contributed $190,000 for monitoring theCRB. In May 2014, the Navy approved a two million dollarsupplement for the CRB program.

The organizations working together have apparentlymanaged to prevent the beetle from nesting beyond theborders of federal property. The Navy and Air Force havebeen major players on the CRB team and their contribu-tion has facilitated the state and federal agencies toperform their pest management work, in addition to themanpower and resources the military has provided.

The Navy, Air Force and the state of Hawaii have beenworking to raise public awareness of the CRB issue since itfirst arose. New nests are frequently discovered on militaryland, but the people of Hawaii are encouraged to checktheir own properties for potential nesting sites.

“We are still in the discovery phase, so it is too early tomeasure true success,” Curtiss said. “We have placed1,358 traps, and surveyed 66,311 palm trees. We need tocontinue to survey and destroy breeding sites, and weneed everyone’s help. A breeding site could be as simpleas someone’s backyard compost pile with grass clippingsand other decaying organic material.”

While the effort is ongoing to prevent the CRB from estab-lishing a permanent presence in Hawaii, the outlook ispositive. “We are optimistic that we can eradicate CRBfrom Hawaii, but it will require all of our effort and exper-tise,” said Curtiss.

New ideas to remove the infestation are being proposedand tested, while those in place have been effective inclearing nests of the later life stages of the beetle.

An invasive species is nothing new to the islands ofHawaii, but it is hopeful that the work of the CRB teamwill result in the complete eradication of the latest pest onthe island. �

CONTACTS

Tom ClementsNavy Region Hawaii808-473-0662DSN: [email protected]

LTJG Eric GalassiNavy Region Hawaii808-473-0660DSN: [email protected]

For More Information

FOR MORE INFORMATION about the CRB, visit the State ofHawaii’s Plant Industry Division web site at http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/pi/main/crb. Weekly updates on activities to eradicate the CRB onOahu are posted by the Hawaii Invasive Species Council can alsobe found on this site.

Mulch is covered after it has been ground twice to prevent beetles from re-establishing a nest. Hawaii Department of Agriculture

ENERGY SECURITY ENHANCES COMBAT CAPABILITY

Do you think culture change, in regards to energy conservation, is important for our Navy?A culture is merely a collection of habits, a way of doing things. It’s important that energy conservation practices become

habits—part of the planning and execution of our daily operations. This will allow us to introduce savings with minimalimpact to our operations. By changing our habits and behaviors we can help decrease our energy expenditures

and increase our cost savings which in turn will increase our operational effectiveness.

How did I save energy for the Navy?

I continually encourage junior personnel to take the initiative to conserve energy in theship’s planning process. This consists of asking the Officers of the Deck to monitor theship’s speed, route, and departure times in hopes of achieving a more economical fuelrate. Initiatives such as these have greatly reduced USS Peleliu’s fuel consumption rate.In fact in 2013, we burned 24 percent less fuel than the class average for LHA/LHDs and used 11 percent less energy than other LHA/LHDs on the waterfront.

Name: Commander Jamie Burts

Age: 39

Hometown: Montrose, PA

Job: Operations Officer

Command: USS Peleliu (LHA 5)

DID YOU KNOW?

http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/energy

@NavalEnergy

facebook.com/NavalEnergy

Did you know that in 2013, USS Peleliu burned 24 percent lessfuel than the class average for LHA/LHDs and used 11 percentless energy than other LHA/LHDs on the waterfront?

As we saw in Iraq and Afghanistan, a greatamount of lives were lost during convoy operations related to refueling and providing energy tothe warfighter. As the Operations Officer aboardUSS Peleliu, my goal is to help change the behaviors and mindsets of the men and women onboard—to encourage them to not only conserveenergy during their daily operations but understand the role energy plays in supporting thewarfighter and the Navy as a whole.

Most importantly, when it comes to energy conservation, we encourage everyone to worktogether as a team. Teamwork is crucial when itcomes to conserving energy aboard USS Peleliu—there is no way any one of us could do it alone.Our engineers, for instance, play a crucial role inhelping our ship reduce its energy consumption.We strongly encourage each and every one of

them to take the initiative to develop economical energyconfigurations, such as coming down on the amount ofburner barrels, securing standby equipment, and identifyingand correcting steam and water leaks. These initiatives notonly help us meet the requirements of the mission but alsohelp to reduce our overall energy consumption.

It’s important that we start building the right energy conservation habits now and that we ingrain these habits into ourplanning considerations. Conserving energy will not onlyhelp us save money—which can then be used by our seniorleaders to invest in other critical programs—but it will alsoallow us to spend valuable time and savings on more important combat capabilities, such as supporting the warfighter.

The USS Peleliu was the proud recipient of the 2013Secretary of the Navy Energy Conservation Award—anaward that recognizes Navy and Marine Corps activities foroutstanding accomplishments in energy management.

THE USE OF spray aeration tech-nology has proven effective atreducing concentrations oftrihalomethanes (THM) in thedrinking water system at the U.S.Naval Auxiliary Landing Field, SanClemente Island (SCI), California.

SCI water program managers havebeen struggling since October 2005 tocontrol high concentrations of THMsin the island’s drinking water system,especially during the hot summermonths when THM concentrationshave been detected above the SafeDrinking Water Act, Maximum Conta-minant Level (MCL) of 80 parts perbillion (ppb).

For the small water system at SCI,treatment options are limited sinceeverything (including drinking water)has to be barged to the island at highcost. (Costs for everything on theisland is triple that of the Californiamainland.) A simple, but experi-mental technology, spray aeration, isnow keeping THMs under control,below the THM MCL. This tech-nology has an added bonus ofimproving disinfectant stability in theSCI water system through betterwater mixing.

San Clemente Island: A Remote Desert Island SCI is the southernmost island of theChannel Islands off the coast ofSouthern California. This desert islandis approximately 21 miles long andfour miles wide (at its widest point)and has no local on-island sources ofdrinking water, so water must be

barged to the island. An offshorebombing range, the island is ownedand operated entirely by the US Navy.

The drinking water system at SCI is aconsecutive water system—a drinkingwater system that already receivestreated water or “finished” water(potable water) that is ready forhuman consumption. The SCI barge


Spray Aeration Improves San Clemente IslandDrinking WaterInexpensive, Simple Technology Reduces Trihalomethane Concentrations

San Clemente Island. Lencer


is filled with potable finished waterfrom either the City of San Diego orthe Sweetwater Authority (SWA), thesame water at all the San Diego areaNavy bases. The source water has lowconcentrations of THMs. Unfortu-nately, THMs form after the potablewater arrives at SCI.

Trihalomethanes Occur in AlmostAll Drinking Water SystemsTo protect people from disease-causing organisms, or pathogens indrinking water, water suppliers often

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) guidance on suitable andeconomically feasible Best AvailableTechnologies (BAT) for drinking watertreatment of THMs in consecutivesystems is limited and doesn’t includeexpensive treatment options availableto primary water purveyors such asgranular activated carbon (GAC). TheEPA recognized that consecutivesystems are not “primary” watersuppliers or purveyors, should bereceiving water ready for consump-tion, and should not be expected to

add a disinfectant, such as chlorine,to drinking water. These disinfectantskeep the water bacteriologically safeand potable. However, disinfectantscan also react with low concentra-tions of naturally-occurring organicsubstances in the water to formbyproducts such as THMs, whichmay pose health risks. At SCI, longwater age (resident time in storagetanks or reservoirs) create moreopportunity for THMs to form andhave resulted in THM concentrationsover 200 ppb.

For the small water system at SCI, treatment options are limited since everything (including drinking water) has to be barged to the island at high cost.

San Clemente Island Monthly and Annual Running Averages of Trihalomethane Concentrations

significantly treat the supplied water. (Note: “Finished”water is ready for human consumption and may onlyrequire disinfectant boosting in some cases.)

Techniques to control THMs in consecutive systemsinclude management of hydraulic flow, includinglooping water distribution lines to eliminate dead-ends.Looping can be accomplished for some water systemsto reduce water age within the distribution system, butmay not be accomplished in others with long pipelines.Looping some water lines would cost millions of dollars.

Other solutions, such as flushing of water distributionpiping is very effective for removing sediment andbiofilms in the distribution piping which can contributeto THM formation, but improving the water qualityfeeding the distribution system from the water tanks iskey to maintaining long term compliance with the THMMCLs for consecutive systems.

THM Treatment Alternatives Can Be Complex,Costly & Time ConsumingAfter receiving the first violation in August 2006 fromthe California Department of Public Health (CDPH),followed by an EPA Administrative Order (AO) againstthe Navy in 2007 for exceeding the THM MCL, the Navywanted to use GAC—the best technology available toreduce THMs at SCI. Unfortunately, the estimated coststo install GAC at SCI were over three million dollars andno space was available at San Diego bases for a GACtreatment system. Producing drinking water from theocean surrounding SCI using desalination technologiessuch as reverse osmosis were also cost prohibitive atapproximately 21 million dollars. These technologieswould also require five to six years (best case) toconstruct, and would involve complex and expensiveenvironmental permitting for the brine ocean dischargeand biological entrainment and entrapment issues withthe ocean intake.

In December 2008, the EPA consecutive system BAT wasimplemented at SCI and the Navy switched from thepredominately surface water source from the City of SanDiego to the mixed water source (surface, groundwater,and desalinated water) from the SWA. Water storage at SCIwas also reduced resulting in an average water age ofapproximately 20 days from an average of 34 days priorto reduction activities.

In 2009 and throughout 2010 and 2011, the drinkingwater system at SCI was back in compliance with theTHM MCL. It appeared as though the consecutivesystem BAT was working. Early in this process, the Navyrealized that the consecutive BAT may not be the long

Formation of THMs in SCI Drinking Water

THMS ARE PRESENT in the source water for the SCI barge(SWA and San Diego water) at levels far below the regulatorylimit of 80 ppb. When the water reaches SCI, it is placed in thedistribution system where it is re-chlorinated, stored, then distrib-uted. The Navy maintains a free chlorine residual throughout thedistribution system by recirculation as well as the injection ofsodium hypochlorite solution at storage reservoirs on the island.With a long water residence time and a free chlorine residual,THMs continue to form as the chlorine reacts with low concen-trations of preexisting precursors (natural organic matter (NOM))present in the water. THM concentrations also increase withwarmer temperatures. All drinking water has some concentrationof NOMs. NOMs, measured as total organic carbon (TOC), aver-aged at a low concentration of two parts per million (ppm) formost of 2008 to 2011.

Because water must be barged to SCI, a reserve of water mustbe stored for contingencies such as fires or problems with bargedeliveries. The water age at various points throughout SCI variesfrom about three days to approximately two months. Water this“old” must be re-chlorinated multiple times to maintain aminimum safe disinfection level. Most water from a tap shouldbe no older than 3 days from the nearest water tank. THMs arenot destroyed by the addition of chlorine, but THMs increasedue to chlorination. Multiple chlorination events combined witha long residence time form high concentrations of THM.

Although spray aeration is considered experimental at this point in time, it is slowly gaining acceptance

from the regulatory community.



term alternative to always maintainthe THM concentrations below theMCL at SCI since source waterquality can change based ondrought conditions and other factorsbeyond the Navy’s control. Andfuture operational needs mayincrease water age.

In 2012, a THM “perfect storm” hitthe SCI water system. The barge wasscheduled for regular maintenanceand, in anticipation, SCI took onadditional water for the time that thebarge was expected to be out ofservice. As a result, the averagewater age increased. At the sametime, SWA provided source waterwhich contained a higher blend ofsurface water with higher concentra-tions of NOM. By April 2012, THMconcentrations soared and the SCIdrinking water system was onceagain out of compliance with theTHM MCL. High concentrations of

Primary Water SuppliersEPA is proposing that the BAT for the THM and Haloacetic Acids(HAA5) Locational Running Annual Average (LRAA) MCLs(0.080 mg/L and 0.060 mg/L, respectively) be one of the threefollowing technologies (for primary systems):

1. GAC adsorbers with at least 10 minutes of empty bedcontact time and an annual average reactivation/replace-ment frequency no greater than 120 days, plus enhancedcoagulation or enhanced softening.

2. GAC adsorbers with at least 20 minutes of empty bedcontact time and an annual average reactivation/replace-ment frequency no greater than 240 days.

3. Nanofiltration using a membrane with a molecular weight of1,000 Daltons or less (or demonstrated to reject at least 80percent of the influent TOC concentration under typicaloperating conditions).

Small Consecutive Water SystemsEPA is proposing a different BAT for consecutive systems thanfor wholesale systems to meet the THM and HAA5 LRAA MCLs.The proposed consecutive system BAT is chloramination withmanagement of hydraulic flow and storage to minimize resi-dence time in the distribution system. This BAT stems from therecognition that treatment to remove already-formed disinfec-tion byproducts (DBP) (like THMs) or minimize further forma-tion is different from treatment to prevent or reduce theirformation.

EPA believes that the BATs proposed for wholesale systems arenot appropriate for consecutive systems because their efficacy incontrolling DBPs is based on precursor removal and each ofthese BATs, when applied to water with DBPs, raises otherconcerns. GAC is not cost-effective for removing DBPs. There-fore, GAC and nanofiltration are not appropriate BATs forconsecutive systems.

Spray nozzle.BETE

Best Available Technology (BAT) for THM/HAA5 Treatment

THMs occurred in the SCI watersystem until October 2013.

Spray Aeration: Simple &Workable with Existing TankRecirculation SystemsSpray aeration entails spraying waterinto the headspace of a water tankto strip volatile THMs from thewater. A positive pressure blowerwith an air filter is used to pushfresh air into the tank headspace toremove the stripped THM gases outthe tank air vents. At SCI, theexisting tank water recirculationsystems were modified for sprayaeration by adding additional pipingand spray nozzles. The design isbased on non-clogging (large diam-eter particle pass-through) spraynozzles (a glorified showerhead)selected for producing the smallestwater droplet size (based on waterflow rate and pressure) and spray

electrical rated for an air flow 30 times of the water flow(30:1 air-to-water ratio) was installed to exchange air inthe tank headspace. An existing water sampling port onthe recirculation line was utilized for water quality moni-toring and flows, chlorine concentrations and dosing,

Rectangular tanks spray aeration configuration.

Barge Source Water

THE SOURCE WATER for the SCI barge varies in the level ofTHM precursors present. These precursors are NOM, sometimesmeasured as TOC, which reacts with chlorine to form THMs.Barge water had been supplied by the City of San Diego. TheCity’s three treatment plants all treat local and imported surfacewater with no groundwater sources. The surface water sourceshave higher NOMs than groundwater or desalination plantsources. The SWA has multiple water sources/treatment plants:

1. The Robert A. Purdue Water Treatment Plant (which treatsimported raw and local surface water)

2. The Richard A. Reynolds Groundwater Desalination Facility

3. The National City wells.

The groundwater sources have very low levels of precursors,while the surface water sources are higher. The predominantwater blend of water from SWA received at Naval Base SanDiego (the location of the SCI barge) is from SWA’s groundwaterwells and brackish water treated by reverse osmosis.


angle (based on tank configuration) to achieve thelongest droplet travel distance. This differs from bubbleaeration where air is bubbled into the bottom of thewater tank and rising bubbles strip THMs from thewater. Bubble aeration needs a large blower to over-come the water pressure in the tank.

Although spray aeration is considered experimental atthis point in time, it is slowly gaining acceptance fromthe regulatory community. The CDPH is overseeingmany spray aeration system pilot tests throughout Cali-fornia. A peer-reviewed article only first appeared in thejournal of the American Water Works Association(AWWA) in 2011 (Brooke, E, Collins, MR. Post-treatmentaeration to reduce THMs. Journal—American WaterWorks Association). The CDPH and EPA allowed theNavy to conduct its own spray aeration pilot scale test inOctober 2013.

Initial Spray Aeration Test at SCIAn initial spray aeration pilot test was conducted inOctober 2013 on a small 10,000-gallon tank at a remotelocation at SCI (also known as the “P-site”) with a longwater age and a site subject to high concentrations ofTHMs. This initial pilot test was installed at minimal cost(less than $5,000 in materials). Water system operatorsfrom the Naval Facilities Engineering Commandinstalled a spray nozzle that was rated for 20 gallons perminute (gpm) on the existing water recirculation andbooster chlorination system. A blower with piping and

Rectangular Tank Aeration Plan (Plan View)


proposed upgrading the P-site aera-tion system and expanding thespray aeration system to all tanksystems at SCI. The CDPH and EPAimmediately accepted the proposedsystem upgrades and expansion.The upgrades and additional tankaeration systems were installed andoperational throughout the first andsecond quarters of 2014. Total mate-rial and installation costs for thespray aeration system for the entireSCI water system were below$75,000.

Spray Aeration Results: SCI Back in ComplianceUntreated inlet water to the P-sitetank was over 80 micrograms perliter (µg/l) throughout the early part of2014. Fortunately, during this time,spray aeration removed an average of76 percent of the THMs. This resulted

chlorine concentrations in the tankwere more stable, indicating bettermixing and less chlorine demand inthe tank water.

Expansion of Spray AerationSystem at SCIThis initial success was reported tothe CDPH and EPA in January 2014.Immediately after, the Navy

and THM concentrations wereassessed as part of this initial test.Initial pilot test results were verypromising. Over ten days, approxi-mately 90 percent of the THM wereremoved from the tank water. Chlo-rine usage by the chlorine injectionsystem did not increase, indicatingthat the chlorine in the water wasnot being stripped by the spray aera-tion system. In fact, it appeared that

Aeration piping on a 40,000-gallon tank.Outside pipe is water heading up for sprayingand inside pipe is the injected air pipe. Thomas Niday

P-Site Tank: Percent THM Removed

P-Site Tank Aeration Pilot Scale Test Results: Total Trihalomethanes (ppb)

chlorine disinfectant was going to bestripped from the water. To keep thewater safe, chlorine must be main-tained in the water. In reviewing chlo-rine dosing data from before andduring aeration, it appears that chlo-rine is not stripped, and in fact, chlo-rine dosing rates are lower. Chlorinedosing rates are half that of non-aera-tion rates. It appears that spray aera-tion enhances the mixing of chlorinein the water tanks. Since chlorine inwater doesn’t exist as a gas but asaqueous hypochlorous acid (HClO),the chlorine will not be air-strippedfrom the water.

Overall THMs were reduced in thewater reservoirs and at the compli-ance monitoring points at SCI due toa combination of:

1. Source water with low TOCconcentrations from SWA.

2. Relatively low water age (currently26.9 days).

3. Better water mixing in tanks (fromboth mixers and aeration).

4. Stripping of THMs using sprayaeration.

Based upon these results, both theEPA and CDPH are inclined to closethe EPA AO in the fall of 2014.

Recommendations for NavyWater SystemsEPA BATs for consecutive systemsmay work in some water systemswith short average water ages, but asthe SCI example shows, for watersystems with long water ages, theseBATS may only work in the short


in THM concentrations being main-tained below 80 µg/l in the down-stream compliance monitoringlocation. It is estimated that sprayaeration removed from 56 percent to86 percent of the THMs in theRectangular Tank water (from the

dual set of SCI water tanks), aver-aging 67 percent removal efficiencyoverall. SCI is now back in compli-ance with the THM MCL.

One of the main concerns expressedabout spray aeration was that the

San Clemente Island is now back in compliance with the trihalomethanes Maximum Contaminant Level.

Rectangular Tanks Aeration Pilot Scale Test Results:Total Trihalomethanes (ppb)

Rectangular Tanks: Percent THM Removed


term. Hydrauliccontrol measuressuch as looping waterdistribution lines canreduce water age andassociated THMswithin the distribu-tion system, but maynot be feasible inwater systems withlong pipelines due tohigh costs.

Unidirectional flushing of waterdistribution piping is very effectivefor reducing chlorine demand andTHM formation within the distribu-tion system, but improving thewater quality feeding the distributionsystem from the water tanks is keyto maintaining long term compli-ance with the THM MCL. A combi-nation of internal tank mixerscombined with spray aerationworked where the source waterquality can change and water age islong. In some cases, a small tankwith a spray aeration system and achlorine booster may reduce THMssignificantly for dead-end and/orremote areas at the end of longpipelines of a distribution system.Spray aeration also stabilizes chlo-rine levels in the tanks and distribu-tion system, reducing the amount ofchlorine dosed in the system. �

CONTACTS

Len SinfieldNaval Facilities Engineering Command

Southwest619-532-2273DSN: [email protected]

Thomas NidayNaval Facilities Engineering Command

Southwest619-524-9125DSN: [email protected]

Water spray in a 40,000-gallontank. Water is dropping eight feet. Thomas Niday

Weekly Chlorine Dose in Rectangular Tanks

Weekly Chlorine Dose in P-Site Tank

THE NAVAL STATION Everettenergy team is using data from itsadvanced meters to validate energyprojects at two buildings on the base.

Advanced utility meters, capable ofshowing how much energy is used ina building at specific times of the dayand night, have been widely installedacross government facilities. Such

“smart” meters are a relatively recentrequirement of the Energy Indepen-dence and Security Act of 2007.Although the meters themselves do notsave energy, they can lead to increasedvisibility of energy use. Energymanagers use meter data to uncoverexcess energy consumption and toverify that measures undertaken tosave energy have met their goal.

Most recently, the Naval StationEverett energy team used advancedmeter data to help quantify andverify the cost savings from a retro-commissioning project at NavalStation Everett’s administrationbuilding (Building 2000). Retro-commissioning is a process of testingand correcting a building’s heating,air conditioning and fresh air distrib-ution systems to ensure that indi-vidual components are working asdesigned, and that the system as awhole is working efficiently.

Retro-commissioning was completedon the south side of Building 2000during August 2014, while the northside is scheduled to be completed ata later date. This allowed forcomparison of meter data betweenthe south and north side of thebuilding as a control for interpretingthe savings. The retro-commis-sioning process revealed that fanspeeds should be reduced at manyof the variable-air-volume air distrib-ution terminals in rooms throughoutthe south side. This action savedenergy and also improved occupantcomfort. The process also revealednon-functioning dampers that havesince been repaired. General testing


Naval Station Everett Uses Advanced Meteringto Validate Energy ProjectsRetro-Commissioning Projects Reduce Energy Use Up to 15 Percent

Naval Station Everett Resource Efficiency Manager John Paynewith one of the installation’s new “smart” meters.

Doug LaPlante


and balancing of the air systems helped to even outtemperatures throughout the facility. To date, electricitysavings at Building 2000 is approximately 12 percent.

Another retro-commissioningproject was conducted at theNaval Station Everett Child Devel-opment Center in the fall of2013. The process revealedcontrol problems that allowedheating and cooling systems torun at the same time, and identi-fied faulty dampers. Damperswere repaired and temperaturesensors relocated to restore effi-cient operations. An in-depthanalysis of electrical and naturalgas advanced meter data wasadjusted for weather data andshowed an energy reduction of15 percent for that projectthrough the first heating season.

The retro-commissioning effortsat Naval Station Everett haveimproved working conditions fora number of people:

� The projects benefit thebuilding occupants who nowwork in a more comfortableand predictable climatethroughout the day.

� Facility managers and mainte-nance personnel benefitbecause they can expectfewer temperature-relatedcomplaints from occupants.

� The energy team, thecommand, and taxpayersoverall benefit because ofreduced energy consumption.

With the help of building-level advanced meter data, theenergy team can show more definitively that a retro-commissioning project in a particular building canreduce energy use.

With the help of building-level advanced meter data, the energy team can show more definitively that a retro-commissioning

project in a particular building can reduce energy use.

Naval Station Everett Child Development Center (Building 1980). John Payne

Naval Station Everett Administration Building (Building 2000). John Payne

The graphs above show the averageelectricity consumed at Building 2000during different time intervals, Junethrough September. The repair andtune-up phase of the retro-commis-sioning process began in late Augustand continued into early September.The north side of the building is some-what smaller but very similar to thesouth side. The north side’s graph

shows that energy use in June and July,prior to retro-commissioning, follows apattern similar to the south side.August and September energy use rela-tive to June and July energy use arelower on the south side than on thenorth side, showing that the energyreduction is not simply a result oflower outside temperatures. Thesavings are most noticeable during


afternoons in September when thesouth side energy use dips significantlyrelative to the north side energy use. �

CONTACT

Leslie Yuenger Naval Facilities Engineering Command

Northwest360-396-6387DSN: [email protected]

B2000N Average Daily Electricity Consumption

B2000S Average Daily Electricity Consumption

AM 1

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Submit your own Best Shot to Bruce McCaffrey � Currents’ Managing Editor � [email protected]

O N EO FM Y Best Sh ts

Bob Schallmann � Conservation Program ManagerNaval Weapons Station Seal Beach � [email protected]

I captured this image of a juvenile burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) at Naval

Weapons Station (NWS) Seal Beach, California. It is resting in its “burrow”—in this

case the drain pipe of a missile magazine. NWS Seal Beach is the only known coastal

breeding location in Orange and Los Angeles counties. I used a Canon Rebel T2i, focal

length 300 mm, ISO-100 at f/8.

RESULTS OF A two year project ledby personnel from the Naval FacilitiesEngineering and Expeditionary WarfareCenter (NAVFAC EXWC) and funded bythe Environmental Security TechnologyCertification Program (ESTCP) assessthe potential of use of iodine-lacedbubbles to reduce the rate of foulingwithin Department of Defense (DoD)shipboard heat exchangers.

Shipboard seawater-cooled heatexchangers are installed throughoutships to cool hydraulic, lubricating,and other system fluids, fresh water,

microorganisms attract and stick tothe heat exchanger tubes. Theseorganisms can be anything frombacteria to slimes and algae. Theyattach to the heat exchanger wall andform bio-film slimes. Macrobialfouling occurs when larger macroorganisms attach to the bio-film ratherthan directly on to the metal.

A Challenging Problem Fouling of DoD shipboard heatexchangers is a chronic and costlyoperating problem that requires signif-icant maintenance expenditures. Typi-cally, fouling of heat exchange devicesis addressed in one of three ways:

1. Take no action.

2. Use acid or mechanical cleaningmethods.

3. Use electro-chlorination devices tominimize foul formation.

Each of these methods negativelyimpacts ship’s operating costs,mission readiness, energy use, andthe environment. Of particular envi-ronmental concern are acid cleaningand electro-chlorination.


ESTCP Explores Innovations to MaintainShipboard Heat ExchangersInitial Study Focuses on the Use of Iodine Bubbles to Reduce the Rate of Fouling

Air conditioning plantcondenser tube sheet from an

air conditioning plant on boardUSS Anchorage (LPD 23).

or air. Specific applications includeproviding cooling for engines, air condi-tioning systems, as well as low and highpressure air systems. Heat exchangerstransfer heat generated by a ship’ssystem using either metal tubes orplates to seawater that is discharged tothe ocean. Bio-fouling occurs when bothnon-organic and organic contaminantscollect on the surfaces of the tubes orplates in contact with the seawaterand a layer forms which reduceswater flow and reduces heat transfer.

Bio-fouling can significantly impactthe functionality of DoD ships in anumber of ways including foulingshipboard heat exchangers and shiphulls. Of particular concern are saltwater environments. The existence ofbarnacles and other marine foulingspecies greatly increases the foul raterelative to other environments.Fouling of ship’s surfaces can result indecreased heat transfer, increaseddrag, corrosion of ship’s materials,increased fuel consumption, and thegeneration of greenhouse gases.

Seawater bio-fouling occurs by eitheror both microbial and macrobialfouling. Microbial fouling occurs when


During an ESTCP research project (no.WP-201219) spearheaded by NAVFACEXWC personnel, investigators foundthat the liquid waste from acidcleaning had a concentration of 2,000parts per million (ppm) of copper, 800ppm of nickel, and 100 ppm of zinc.This waste also had a pH of less thanone. Depending on the size of theheat exchangers, these types of clean-ings can result in the generation ofthousands of gallons of hazardousliquid waste that is regulated by the

that it can affect photosynthesis ofmarine organisms. At present, theClean Water Act limits chlorine releasewithin 200 nautical miles of shore tobetween 7.5 and 13 parts per billion(ppb). Proposed standards as part ofthe Uniform National Discharge Stan-dards may further limit release within12 nautical miles of the United Statesshoreline. The current standard chlo-rine dosing level for Navy ships is 200ppb for two hours a day as aminimum to control bio-fouling.

Resource Conservation and RecoveryAct (RCRA). Disposal of this wastenormally costs from $2 to $12 pergallon, thus the total cost for a heatexchanger cleaning can easily exceed$100,000. In addition, the aciddissolves ship’s materials potentiallyreducing the system’s service life.

On a few DoD vessels, electro-chlori-nation is used to retard fouling. Use ofthe technology results in free chlorinerelease into the ocean. Free chlorine,a halogen, may present a problem in

Bio-fouling can significantly impact the functionality of DoD ships in a number of ways including fouling shipboard heat exchangers and ship hulls.

The Basics About ESTCP

THE ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY Tech-nology Certification Program is DoD’s envi-ronmental technology demonstration andvalidation program. The program wasestablished in 1995 to promote the transferof innovative technologies that havesuccessfully established proof of concept tofield or production use. ESTCP demonstra-tions collect cost and performance data toovercome the barriers to employ an innov-ative technology because of concernsregarding technical or programmatic risk.

The program’s goal is to identify anddemonstrate the most promising innova-tive and cost-effective technologies andmethods that address DoD’s high-priorityenvironmental requirements. Projectsconduct formal demonstrations at DoDfacilities and sites in operational settings todocument and validate improved perfor-mance and cost savings. To ensure thedemonstrated technologies have a realimpact, ESTCP collaborates with end usersand regulators throughout the develop-

ment and execution of each demonstra-tion. Transition challenges are overcomewith rigorous and well-documenteddemonstrations that provide the informa-tion needed by all stakeholders for accep-tance of the technology.

ESTCP issues an annual solicitation forproposals from the Federal government,academia, and industry and employs acompetitive selection process to ensure thatESTCP funds high-quality demonstrations.ESTCP requires each project to develop aformal test and evaluation plan. Demon-stration results are subject to rigorous tech-nical reviews to ensure that the conclusionsare accurate and well supported by data.

ESTCP is managed by a Director andDeputy Director, five Program Managers,and a Financial Officer. The ESTCP office isco-located with the Strategic EnvironmentalResearch and Development Program(SERDP) in Alexandria, Virginia. In this jointprogram structure, the management staffhas insight into the entire range of scien-tific and technical issues associated with an

environmental problem, from basicresearch questions through implementa-tion. ESTCP relies on the technical skillsoffered by the participating Servicesserving on its technical committees toassist in the technical aspects of programdevelopment, project selection, programmonitoring, and technology transfer.

ESTCP projects are managed within thefollowing five program areas:

1. Energy and Water

2. Environmental Restoration

3. Munitions Response

4. Resource Conservation and ClimateChange

5. Weapons Systems and Platforms

For more information, visit the program’sweb site at www.serdp-estcp.org.

A Different Halogen & MethodTo extend the periods in between cleanings, while main-taining optimal functionality and thus improving theelemental and functional impact of fouling heatexchangers, a recent NAVFAC EXWC project sponsored byESTCP and the Navy Environmental Sustainability Devel-opment to Integration (NESDI) program demonstrated thesuitability of iodine bubble infusion technology. This tech-nology, a proprietary product of I2 Air Fluid Innovation,Inc., utilizes a low volume of elemental iodine (I2) vaporeluted from iodine coated resin beads in an air streamand delivers that vapor via bubbles to the heat transfersurfaces on the seawater side of shipboard heatexchangers. This technology uses microbial interactions toprovide a targeted disinfection without the need fortreating the entire water volume. The iodine inactivatesthe fouling microorganisms and thus helps to prevent boththe formation of a bio-film and subsequent macro fouling.Through the infusion of air containing elemental iodinevapor into the heat exchanger, this demonstration hasshown that the formation of biological foul can be reducedand the period between physical cleanings extended whilemaintaining acceptable system parameters.

Elemental iodine is a halogen that acts similar to chlorinein its ability to inactivate fouling microbes but with lessenvironmental impact. When iodine is found in both theocean water and sea life and when newly introduced,rapidly degrades into already present compounds. Themethod of introduction, as a vapor filled bubble, can offeradditional safety, environmental, effectiveness andeconomic benefits as well.

Effectiveness of the Iodine Bubble Infusion Technology

The ESTCP-sponsored demonstration showed that the I2bubble infusion technology can increase the period


For More Insights

FOR MORE INSIGHTS into the reducing the environmentalimpact of has been a priority of Navy’s afloat environmentalprogram for decades. In recent months, the Navy and theU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have made greatstrides toward implementing new nationwide standards forliquid discharges from Navy ships, read our article “UniformNational Discharge Standards Underway: Navy & EPA MakeProgress Toward Final Rules” in the summer 2014 issue ofCurrents. You can browse the Currents archives at the Depart-ment of the Navy’s Energy, Environment and Climate Changeweb site at http://greenfleet.dodlive.mil/currents-magazine.

between cleanings while maintaining system efficiencies.Additionally, the project showed that infused iodinebubbles as part of an in situ cleaning method, reducescleaning time, the generation of acidic liquid waste, andheat exchanger maintenance costs. The I2 bubble infu-sion technology has also undergone proof of conceptlaboratory testing against microbial challenges in otherstudies. In a Cornell University study sponsored by theUnited States Department of Agriculture, it has beenshown to reduce microbe concentration levels by sevenorders of magnitude within 90 seconds in fluids. Studiesat Washington State University have shown the tech-nology to be effective in reducing microbes in turbidwater and beneath bio-films.

In 2007, the I2 bubble infusion technology had its firstcommercial implementation. It was used on a fouledindustrial geothermal heat exchanger at StandardMicrosystems, an electronics technology manufacturingfacility located in Hauppauge, New York. Between 2009and 2010, several other commercial implementations

Pier-side sewer connectionat NAVSTA Mayport.


were completed including the first salt water applicationfor a site in Bermuda. In all instances, I2 infusion was ableto retard the formation of foul within previously rapidlyfouling heat exchangers.

A Logical Approach

Regardless of the existence of shipboard electro-chlorina-tion systems, heat exchangers are periodically taken out ofservice and cleaned by an expensive mechanical or chem-ical cleaning method. This work is almost alwaysperformed while the ship is in port. The period betweencleanings depends on the ship’s operating tempo and areaof operation. Those ships operating in warm water requiremore frequent cleaning. The overall goal of this demon-stration project was the rehabilitation of an already fouledexchanger and a reduction in foul progression undernormal operating conditions.

For the technology to be considered useful, and para-mount to the success of this study, the project team deter-mined that four important criteria needed to be met:

1. System safety

2. Ease of use and integration

3. Environmental safety

4. Effectiveness in retarding the progression of bio-fouling

To address these criteria, the project was completed inthree phases:

1. Laboratory testing

2. Field testing

3. Shipboard demonstration

Phase 1: Laboratory TestingIn the first phase, the team verified that the non-metallicand metallic materials commonly used within shipboardheat exchangers were compatible with the chemicals usedduring the I2 protocols. These laboratory tests also verifiedthat the iodinated bubbles did not increase the erosionrate on heat exchanger materials.

Phase 2: Field TestingField testing was performed at the National EnergyLaboratory of Hawaii Authority’s (NELHA) facility inKona, HI to determine foul retardation and metalerosion rates for five common heat exchanger metals

using warm Pacific Ocean seawater. Testing wasperformed both in unlit conditions, emulating the heatexchanger interior, and sunlight conditions fostering thegrowth of algae. Testing showed that the I2 infusionprocess was not inhibitory to algae growth. Althoughinitial qualitative indications showed a reduction theformation of fouling (see Figures 1 & 2 below),numerous performance problems prevented thecompletion of this testing.

FIGURE 1: Bio-fouling in un-infused tube. Makai Engineering

FIGURE 2: Bio-fouling in infused tube. Makai Engineering

Phase 3: Shipboard DemonstrationOnboard the Self Defense Test Ship (SDTS), homeportedin Port Hueneme, California, two identical Low PressureAir Compressor (LPAC) heat exchangers (numbers 1 and2), were used for the demonstration. At the start of thedemonstration, both exchangers were chemically cleanedusing the I2 protocol to establish an identical baseline.

LPAC No. 1 was designated to receive the infusionprotocol. The I2 infusion equipment was installed in a

small box mounted above the heatexchanger. The demonstration wasperformed over a period exceedingnine months, with resin cartridgeschanged approximately monthly. Noequipment maintenance wasrequired during the demonstrationperiod. Daily measurements of the

Although the project team hadwanted each exchanger to be used 50percent of the time, in actuality, LPACNo. 1 was in use approximately 85percent of the time. As expressed bythe crew, typically this exchangerwould have been cleaned every threeto six months.

At the end of the demonstration, thetemperature and pressure parameterswere still within the acceptable range.Water sampling indicated low metaland iodine levels within the effluent.LPAC No. 1 metal ion elution did notvary greatly whether the system wasinfusing or not. At the end of thedemonstration period, the LPAC unitswere disassembled and viewed forfoul progression. The inspectionshowed that the tubes were relativelyclear of solidified foul.

Unfortunately, this project did notresult in a definitive and clear indica-tion of success. The fact that the LPACNo. 1 exchanger was used 85 percentof the time meant the control heatexchanger (LPAC No. 2) saw very little


The number 1 LPAC heat exchanger onboard the SDTS. Bruce Holden

The I2 bubble infusion device. Bruce Holden

inlet and outlet temperatures andinlet pressure readings wererecorded on calibrated ship’s gauges.These measurements were used todetermine the degree of bio-foiling.Periodic water samples wereobtained to measure metallurgicalelution (dissolved metal content) and

sublimation of iodine(in gaseous form).Measuring the amountof metallurgical elutionwas used to confirmthat the protocol did not excessively stripmetallic ions from theheat exchanger surfaceswhich could reduce itsservice life. Sublimationof iodine measurementsserved to confirm thatiodine discharges wouldbe minimal and giveniodine’s presence inseawater and marineplant life, present aninsignificant ecologi-cal risk.

This photo of the internal heat exchanger tubing in LPAC No. 1 was taken at the conclusion of the demonstration of theI2 bubble technology, shows dirty, but not bio-fouled tubing.

Bruce Holden


growth cycle of some fouling species and on the surfacebonding capabilities of barnacles. Water samplinganalysis indicated no change in sea water iodine levelsduring full iodine infusion compared to ambient seawater. Complete demonstration results should be avail-able in the near future.

The technology is also the subject of investigationthrough the NESDI program. TheNESDI program has just launched aproject (Bio-fouling Reduction of ShipCooling Water Systems (project no.502)) to study the retardation offouling within a support system heatexchanger used to replace a subma-rine’s heat exchanger while thesubmarine is undergoing mainte-nance in a dry dock.

Although not approved at this time,the project team’s is working to getthe technology demonstrated on aNavy combat ship with the demon-stration period long enough to deter-mine how long the I2 technology canextend the period between heatexchanger cleanings. �

CONTACT

Bruce HoldenNaval Facilities Engineering and

Expeditionary Warfare Center805-982-6050DSN: [email protected]

use. Ideally, the demonstration would have beencontinued until such time that the ship needed to performa heat exchanger cleaning. Since the ship normally cleansthe exchangers every three to six months, investigatorswere, however, able to demonstrate that the I2 bubbleinfusion technology achieved the project’s most importantgoal—extending the period between cleanings by 50percent. For additional project results, see ESTCP FinalReport TR-NAVFAC-EXWC-EV-1404 posted on the ESTCPweb site at www.serdp-estcp.org/Program-Areas/Weapons-Systems-and-Platforms/Waste-Reduction-and-Treatment-in-DoD-Operations/WP-201219/WP-201219/(language)/eng-US.

Ongoing Research

Even with the limited indication of success, two follow-onNavy demonstrations of this technology have been initi-ated. The technology underwent further study at theUndersea Naval Warfare Center in Newport, RhodeIsland as a hull foul retardant in conjunction with airbubble curtains between the spring and fall of 2014.Early observations indicated an inhibitory effect on the

The Basics About the NESDI Program

THE NESDI PROGRAM seeks to provide solutions by demonstrating, validating andintegrating innovative technologies, processes, materials, and filling knowledge gaps tominimize operational environmental risks, constraints and costs while ensuring Fleetreadiness. The program accomplishes this mission through the evaluation of cost-effec-tive technologies, processes, materials and knowledge that enhance environmentalreadiness of naval shore activities and ensure they can be integrated into weaponssystem acquisition programs.

The NESDI program is the Navy’s environmental shoreside (6.4) Research, Develop-ment, Test and Evaluation program. The program is sponsored by the Chief of NavalOperations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division and managed by the NavalFacilities Engineering Command out of the Naval Facilities Engineering and Expedi-tionary Warfare Center in Port Hueneme, California. The program is the Navy’s comple-ment to the Department of Defense’s Environmental Security Technology CertificationProgram which conducts demonstration and validation of technolo-gies important to the tri-Services, U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency and Department of Energy.

For more information, visit the NESDI program web site atwww.nesdi.navy.mil or contact Ken Kaempffe, the NESDIProgram Manager at 805-982-4893, DSN: 551-4893 [email protected].

PERSONNEL FROM VARIOUScommands within Navy Region Hawaiiare training to become aerial observersduring major oil spill responses.

Recent catastrophic oil spills, such asthose in San Francisco Bay and theGulf of Mexico, demonstrated seriousand long-lasting impacts that a spillcan impose on the environment andthe community. Dead fish, oiled

plans have already identified theirresponse organizations, equipment,oil recovery tactics and disposal facili-ties. During an actual response, thespill management team can use oilspill trajectory models to predictwhere the oil might go, enablingresponders to preposition crews andequipment to clean up the oil.However, knowing exactly where theoil is located can be challenging.

Standing on the beach can only tellyou so much. Even if you sendsomeone up in a helicopter, he or shecan easily mistake cloud cover, chan-nels through the reefs, or schools offish for an oil slick.

Hawaii’s sensitive marine environ-ment and an economy dependenton the preservation of that environ-ment could be threatened by anuncontrolled oil spill. To addressthese risks, Navy Region Hawaiirecognized the need to develop itsown cadre of trained aerial observersto engage during a spill response drill

or in the event of an actual spill. Thisneed was driven in part by the pres-ence of the Navy’s defense fuelsupport point at Naval SupplySystems Command Fleet LogisticsCenter Pearl Harbor (NAVSUP FLCPearl Harbor). This facility is thelargest bulk fuel storage and handlingfacility in the central Pacific Oceanand manages millions of gallons offuel. Fueling operations for vessels at

Pearl Harbor and aircraft at HickamField happen almost daily. Althoughlarge spills rarely occur, preparednessand compliance with regulations isextremely important.

To close this critical data gap, federalregulations (specifically “Responseplan development and evaluationcriteria for facilities that handle,store, or transport Group I throughGroup IV petroleum oils” (33 CFR154.1045(j))) were revised in 2011 toaddress the need for aerial observers.(Note: See our sidebar “Basic StockCategories” for more insights into the


Hawaii Takes to the Air for Oil Spill ResponsePartnering with the Local Community Increases the Navy’s Oil Spill Response Capabilities

birds and injured marine mammalsare just some of the potentialimpacts of a large oil spill. Peoplewho live, work or play near a spillsite can also experience hazardousexposures to petroleum vapors.Economic impacts can devastate thelocal community when touristscancel their reservations or loss ofimportant fishing areas results inhigh unemployment.

Because of these impacts, it is impera-tive that any response to a spill be aseffective and efficient as possible.Navy facilities with oil spill response

Although large spills rarely occur, preparedness and compliance with regulations is extremely important.

groupings of petroleum oils.) These regulationsrequire facilities handling, storing, or transportingGroup I through Group IV petroleum oils that they“must identify in the response plan, and ensure theavailability through contract or other approvedmeans, of response resources necessary to provideaerial oil tracking to support oil spill assessment andcleanup activities.” The regulation further describesthe minimum training that these aerial observersmust receive.

Navy Region Hawaii has a memorandum of agree-ment for training with the Clean Islands Council—alocal oil spill response cooperative. (For more informa-tion about the Clean Islands Council, visithttp://cleanislands.com.) The aerial observer programis just one of many programs which the Council’sgeneral manager Kim Beasley developed to supportthe many member companies and agencies that makeup the council. And, according to Mr. Beasley, eventhough the aerial observer program has been on thebooks for a few years, many locales are just beginningto train their aerial observer teams. In addition to orga-nizing classroom and flight training, Beasley developeda process for observers to record their flight—from theactual flight path tracing to linking photographs takenfrom the air to that flight path track.

TO IMPROVE THE science of determining oil spill trajectories inHawaii and elsewhere, Pei-fang Wang of the Space and NavalWarfare Systems Command, Systems Center Pacific hascombined two predictive models under an effort sponsored bythe Navy Environmental Sustainability Development to Integra-tion (NESDI) program.

Up until recently, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin-istration’s (NOAA) model, known as GNOME (General NOAAOperational Modeling Environment) has been the standardmodel for use as a first response to an oil spill event. However,GNOME is a transport model and not a hydrodynamic model,meaning that GNOME does not compute currents but relies ondata from an external source. To address this deficit, this projectteam combined the GNOME model with the Navy’s CurvilinearHydrodynamics in 3-dimensions (CH3D).

The linked model uses the best parts of each model, includingthe oil properties and transport prediction in GNOME and theaccurate hydrodynamic calculations, including currents andwater mass movement in fine resolu-tions from CH3D. The linked modelhas been demonstrated toimprove the predictive accuracyof oil spill trajectories for PearlHarbor and San Diego Bay.

For more information about theNESDI program, visit the program’sweb site at www.nesdi.navy.mil orcontact Ken Kaempffe, the NESDI ProgramManager at 805-982-4893, DSN: 551-4893 [email protected].

The Navy Region Hawaii aerial observer team stands in front of the helicopter that will take them on their training flight. FROM LEFT: Steve Butler, Estra Higa and Cynthia Pang.Kirk Tomita


A Better Oil Spill Trajectory Model

In 2011, Navy Region Hawaii desig-nated three Navy civilians to begintraining to become qualified aerialobservers. Cynthia Pang (Navy RegionHawaii), Steve Butler (NAVSUP FLCPearl Harbor), and Estra Higa (NavalFacilities Engineering CommandHawaii) underwent initial training in a

commercial helicopter. This wasfollowed by training on using oil spilltracking software to record theirflights on maps. Following this initialtraining, the trio also participated in ajoint Navy and private industry worst-case-discharge scenario oil spill exer-cise. This exercise involved an

off-shore oil spill scenario and wasused as a practical training exercisefor the aerial observers. The teamflew in a chartered helicopter over theexercise site and along the shoreline.

Each aerial observer is expected tospot oil, clean areas and endangeredwildlife. They also learn how to workin the command post interpreting dataand preparing presentation materials.

Aboard the helicopter, the Navyobservers use a laptop computerconnected to a global positioningsystem device to record the completeflight path and perform other tasks,such as charting the exact location ofthe spill and its boundaries. Hardwareaboard the helicopter transmits theinformation immediately to the inci-dent command post. Once the dataare received, another qualifiedobserver estimates the area of the oilslick using software in the commandpost and quickly prepares briefingmaterial using the overflight track andphotos taken during the aerial surveil-lance. This provides the UnifiedCommand as well as the spill


Aerial observers might need to fly close to the shoreline to check for signs of oil. Observers also look for sea turtles, seals and other wildlife

along the shore that could be potentially impacted by the oil. Cynthia Pang

During an actual oil spill incident off of Oahu’s southern shoreline, aerial observers flew towards the

Oil Spill Response Vessel Hawaii Responder as it skimmed the oil slick. Clean Islands Council

management team with valuableinformation that can be used toproject movement of the oil, developcleanup plans, send people out torescue animals, and take other neces-sary actions.

In the “old days”, the helicopter hadto land first and someone had to driveto the command post with the data.Using the new process and equip-ment, Unified Command memberscan have immediate access to thedata and a clear understanding of thesituation as soon as changes occur.

With new technology, the programwas updated and training wascompleted in September 2014. At thattime, the trio was able to completetheir observer training with classroominstruction on the science of oil spills,physical properties of petroleum,aerial oil slick pattern recognition,conversion of raw data into visualpresentation materials and other rele-vant topics. The team also flew in ahelicopter as a refresher and tocomplete that phase of their trainingwhile learning additional skills on aniPAD and global positioning software.

As a final part of its training, the Navyobserver team participated in a majorlocal industry-led oil spill exercise.They took turns with other observersfrom industry at the command postand in the air. Using their observa-tions about the oil spill, its location,endangered species in the area andother valuable information, theUnified Command and the spill

an oily-water mixture. However, itposed a potential threat to marinelife. Pang was able to put her traininginto actual practice when she part-nered with the Clean Islands Councilin the response. She was assisted atthe command post while other aerialobservers from local industry flewover the site. She converted their rawdata and overflight photographs intopresentation materials for the UnifiedCommand. This helped greatly to

management team developed tacticsto efficiently remove the oil andprevent environmental damage.Without aerial observers, only verylimited visual observation from theshore would be available.

In October 2014, an actual oil spilloccurred south of Barbers Point onthe island of Oahu. This was a rela-tively small spill from a local industryand was less than 2,000 gallons of

The data obtained by the aerial observers provide much needed information to the Unified Command,

enabling them to make the right decisions.—Cynthia Pang

Basic Stock Categories

A BASE STOCK is a lubricant component that is produced by a single manufacturer tothe same specifications (independent of feed source or manufacturer’s location); thatmeets the same manufacturer’s specification; and that is identified by a unique formula,product identification number, or both.

All base stocks are divided into five general categories:

� Group I base stocks contain less than 90 percent saturates and/or greater than 0.03percent sulfur and have a viscosity index greater than or equal to 80 and less than120 using specified test methods.

� Group II base stocks contain greater than or equal to 90 percent saturates and lessthan or equal to 0.03 percent sulfur and have a viscosity index greater than or equalto 80 and less than 120 using specified test methods.

� Group III base stocks contain greater than or equal to 90 percent saturates and lessthan or equal to 0.03 percent sulfur and have a viscosity index greater than or equalto 120 using specified test methods.

� Group IV base stocks are polyalphaolefins (PAO). PAOs can be interchanged withoutadditional qualification testing as long as the interchange PAO meets the original PAOmanufacturer’s specifications in physical and chemical properties.

� Group V base stocks include all other base stocks not included in Group I, II, III, or IV.

Source: The American Petroleum Institute (www.api.org)


understand the scope andmovement of the oil slick.Through this experience, Pangput her “lessons learned”regarding creating situationmaps and other data into anaerial observer job aid to assistthe others on the Navy teamshould they be mobilized foran oil spill.

“This has been a great experi-ence,” said Pang. “The dataobtained by the aerialobservers provide muchneeded information to theUnified Command, enablingthem to make the right deci-sions. The technologyimprovements allow them andthe rest of the spill manage-ment team to see what ishappening immediately.Without a strong aerial obser-vation team, we would be essentially guessing where theoil is and where the slick is heading.”

Butler said, “In addition to knowing where the oil is, it’salso very important to know where it isn’t. There may befolks who may later claim that they were impacted by theoil. So these overflights are essential for documenting theboundaries of the spill.”

Higa added, “The information being gathered is crucialand very important for an efficient response. We need toknow where the oil is, how much is out there and whereit’s going. I look forward to additional training to becomeeven more proficient.”

Due to its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean andthe large quantity of oil stored and handled, oil spillprevention and response preparedness are high prioritiesfor Navy Region Hawaii. The Region’s spill management

team often attends incident command system trainingand participates in various exercises. This allows the teammembers to meet, work and partner with members fromthe private sector and government officials from federal,state and county level.

To meet the requirement for aerial observers, Navy RegionHawaii was able to draw upon its tenant commands toform its own team. By training with other governmentsand private industry, Navy Region Hawaii and its partnersin the local community ensures that the response istimely, effective and well-coordinated. �

CONTACT

Cynthia PangNavy Region Hawaii808-473-4689DSN: [email protected]


In this documentation from an actual oil spill, the yellow line represents the oil slick outline during the 7 a.m. overflight. The red line represents the 9 a.m. overflight. The change in shape

is very apparent. The white area shows the oil estimated to be 2.9 square miles in size. Clean Islands Council

Due to its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and the large quantity of oil stored and handled, oil spill prevention and

response preparedness are high priorities for Navy Region Hawaii.

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