March 23, 2005
NAVY’S SUBMARINE PROGRAM GETS A BOOST FROM LINK TOOLS

In an effort to maximize the use of older model submarines, several OHIO Class TRIDENT submarines are being retrofitted as SSGN class Tomahawk missile carrying submarines. An All-Up-Round Simulator is being delivered to test SSGN Tomahawk capability, prior to the missile load out.

One of the logistical challenges to the retrofitting process was finding a speeder wrench set that could be used to work on an installed simulator without the danger of Foreign Object Damage (FOD) from detaching sockets and socket extensions in the missile tube. Socket drops can easily happen working in the small, very cramped, dark regions of a sub with disastrous results such as an engine malfunction or total work stoppage.

LINK’s patented QUICK-LOCK^® technology was found to be an effective system designed to deter dropped sockets and tool separations. The QUICK-LOCK LINK design stays locked from ‘hand-to-work’, functioning as a one piece tool. LINK Tools also quick release at any connection with one hand. Logistic specialists working with the Navy believe that there are several more military applications where QUICK-LOCK technology could be applied.

LINK Tools provide users with another bonus. They have been certified by TUV, a global leader in independent testing and assessment services. According to TUV, on the job test results indicate that the use of LINK Tools resulted in significantly increased worker productivity and significantly reduced chronic stress injury. These key features tend to reduce medical fees and prolong the life of skilled workers, just as they result in better worker output and greater safety for workers.

LINK Tools have been used by NASA, Ramstein Air Force base, major airlines, Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman, the U.S. Army Tank, Automotive and Armaments Command and the U.S. Nuclear submarine fleet. They have also been evaluated and strongly recommended by the Aviation Technical Council, Professional Tool & Equipment magazine and several marine and automotive equipment publications. More recently the tools have been adopted by several nuclear power installations where safety concerns regarding installations where safety concerns regarding Foreign Materials Exclusion (FME) are always a high priority.

For more information and a full range of LINK tool options, go to http://www.link-tools.com. For a complete catalogue, call 1-888-727-5465 or write to LINK Tools International, PO Box 14609, Chicago, Il 60614.

LINK^® and QUICK-LOCK^® are registered trademarks of LINK Tools International (U.S.A.), Inc.