The collaboration according to Josiah Myer, Electrical Engineer at Serco Inc.
Josiah Myer, an Electrical Engineer at Serco Inc., demonstrates insight and precision in designing advanced electrical power systems, notably for projects like NOMARS. In a recent interview, Josiah shared his perspective on overcoming challenges and leveraging innovative solutions.
When asked about the complexities of designing the electrical power system for NOMARS, Josiah highlighted the critical hurdles faced. Particularly in sourcing equipment that aligns with stringent specifications while ensuring seamless integration into the ship’s infrastructure.
“The largest hurdle for the DC-BUS tie was finding equipment that not only met our specification but also was reasonably sized for integration into the ship.”
Choosing the solid-state DC breaker
Josiah’s selection of Astrol DC breakers for the project demonstrates his technical understanding. He emphasized the direct match and availability of the DC breaker, coupled with its exceptional power density and compact design which is a vital consideration for integrating equipment into NOMARS.
More about our solid-state DC breaker
Learn more about how our solid-state DC breakers offer optimal protection for your DC grid. View all our available solid-state DC breakers in our product catalog.
Working with Astrol and Astrolkwx
Reflecting on his collaboration experience with Astrol and Astrolkwx, Josiah praised the partnership, describing it as “fantastic” from the early design stages through to execution and delivery.
Looking ahead
Josiah envisions a promising future collaboration with Astrol and Astrolkwx. As industries increasingly adopt DC power grids, he views Astrolkwx as a vital resource, offering a diverse range of products that align with evolving project needs.
Serco, Astrol & Astrolkwx
FAT (factory acceptance test) at Astrol’s high voltage test lab
On April 4, 2024, a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) took place at Astrol’s high voltage/high current test lab in Othmarsingen, Switzerland. The proceedings were overseen by Randal Day, an Electrical Engineer Level 1 at Serco.
High voltage testing
Astrol’s test lab boasts capabilities of up to 10 kV DC and sustained currents of up to 5 kA. Each product undergoes rigorous testing prior to deployment to ensure optimal performance for customers. The lab is equipped with an array of capacitors, collectively possessing a capacity of 1 megajoule, facilitating essential short circuit and GCT/thyristor switch testing.
High current testing
Central to Astrol’s testing regimen is a DC current source capable of delivering up to 5,000 A continuously and simulating up to 30,000 A for short-circuit scenarios. This robust setup is essential for validating the performance and resilience of the solid-state DC breakers, ensuring reliability under demanding conditions.
Testing the solid-state DC breaker
Further insights into NOMARS
DARPA’s progression into Phase 2 of the NOMARS program focuses on developing a Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) capable of executing missions reliably with significant payloads. Serco Inc.’s design was selected to advance after a successful Phase 1.
NOMARS represents a pioneering approach to ship design. Aiming to operate entirely without human presence during sea missions, including complex operations like underway replenishment (UNREP). By removing human-related limitations, NOMARS enables innovative ship configurations and capabilities not feasible with crewed vessels.
The NOMARS program is leading advancements in ship reliability. Without onboard crew for maintenance, NOMARS requires innovative solutions for power generation, propulsion, machinery alignment and control systems to ensure continuous operation under various environmental conditions.
DARPA’s program manager, emphasizes NOMARS’ role in introducing new operational concepts. The objective is to deploy and maintain extensive fleets of unmanned surface vessels globally, serving as crucial allies to larger crewed U.S. Navy ships. This initiative represents transformative approaches to deploying and managing unmanned fleets in strategic naval operations.
Specialist in maritime DC solutions
Astrolkwx specializes in advising and supplying power electronics components and assemblies for DC systems on board ships.
In addition to the revolutionary solid-state DC breaker technology, we also supply a variety of products like (super) capacitors, isolated rectifiers, fuses, heatsinks, resistors and blocking diodes.
Schedule a short Technical Online Meeting
Elevate your power management systems with Astrolkwx’s latest innovations. Whether it’s the silent strength of our supercapacitors, the robust safety of our DC breakers, or the cooling efficiency of our rectifiers, Astrolkwx has the solution to power your projects.
Discover how our technologies and solutions can transform your operations. Schedule a short technical meeting with our specialists for more details. Let’s redefine power together!
