The T1-MK1 target is currently in the hot cell for repair of a leak at position 1. See E-Log #129 for details on previous work.
- Pos'n 1 right nut removed (a little stiff, but no excessive force required)
- Exterior threads cleaned w/ Scotchbrite disc on Dremel tool
- Inside sealing face inspected w/ Nikon level. Possible brownish material on sealing face at 10 o'clock and 12/1 o'clock positions
- Threads inspected w/ Nikon level: small dent at 1st thread 2 o'clock position as seen before and small amount of material build-up or galling at 1st & 2nd thread 4 o'clock position. Otherwise threads looked clean and straight
- Constructed Dremel attachment using ~1/2" thick, ~4" long piece of Scotchbrite folded over a 1/16" diameter steel rod, secured with zap-straps and shaped w/ scissors to fit inside the ladder port (see photo)
- Cleaned and polished the sealing surface w/ new Scotchbrite Dremel tool
- Inspected inside sealing surface: brown coloured material no longer visible. A clear scratch/dent is visible at 10 o'clock position.
- Blew out hole and new nut with compressed air
- Installed nut (went on much easier than before which indicates that the Scotchbrite disc thread cleaning method is effective)
- Leak check performed: pumped down to ~70mTorr on Hastings gauge w/ throttle valve fully open and roughing valve closed
- Sizeable leak at Pos'n 1 right side nut, as before. No improvement with tightening
The next step will be to perform a static water test on the cooling lines to see if the plug is water leak tight. If it is, no further action is necessary. If not, either the ladder must be replaced, or other methods to achieve a seal investigated.
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