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New NASA Project with Sunbelt Rentals & GME Trench Shields is Out of this World

NASA knows no limits. By way of GME trench shields during the initial installation process, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration will supply water needed to test the core stage of its new Space Launch System (SLS) at Stennis Space Center using newly installed pipe that will flow 335,000 gallons of water per minute.

Compare that pipe to the pipe that hooks up to your household, which only flows about two gallons of water per minute. You really can get a sense of the enormous scale it takes to be involved with launching something into space.

Installation of New Water System

Installation of the new pipe is a replacement and upgrade of the 50-year-old

high-pressure industrial water system. The 3,000 feet of carbon steel piping included inner and outer lining to minimize effects from corroding elements.

With the testing of new Space Launch System, the 335,000 gallons of water per minute will be cooling the exhaust from four RS-25 engines, which produce more than 2 million pounds of thrust. The fire and exhaust will be redirected out of the stand by a large flame trench. The water going through this length of piping is critical for the testing of the SLS, for functionality and power purposes, as well as safety.

Its features provide crucial savings. All spreader and corner connections feature the GME unique keyed locking pins, which require no keepers, saving both time and money during installation and removal.

The project, which is being managed by NASA engineer Karma Snyder will not only replace the piping, but also several large gate valves and a pump that will increase water flow. The SLS is part of a development that will carry humans and other payloads deeper into space than ever. Eventually, these vehicles will replace the Space Shuttle.

Worker Safety with GME Trench Shields

Alongside Sunbelt Rentals, GME’s trench shields ensure safety for all workers involved in the installation. The trench shields will be installed alongside the pipe and will allow access for welding and inspection, without any further or repetitive digging.

From big projects to small construction, safety is always important, so check out how we can help your project. Contact us today about our offering of aluminum trench shields as well as steel trench shields.