NZDF Innovation of the Year
Developing a new process to maintain a de-icing system on NH90 helicopters, set to save hundreds of thousands of dollars per year, has earned Corporal (CPL) Jennifer Harmon the award for NZDF Innovation of the Year.
CPL Jennifer Harmon found that NH90 main rotor de-icing wiring harnesses were being discarded if a fault was identified, even if they could be successfully repaired.
The harnesses were routinely inspected in the Rotary Bay in Maintenance Support Squadron at Ohakea. They were deemed a “non-repairable” item and if any faults were identified, the assembly was disposed of.
Replacement parts could take months to arrive and with limited stock levels there was a potential to affect aircraft availability and capability.
CPL Harmon concluded there must be a better way for the Air Force to carry out this maintenance activity, which was causing regular rejection and disposal of this assembly.
After dissembling one of the units, she discovered individual parts inside the harness were readily available for replacement. CPL Harmon then drafted a method to repair the unit showing it could be done while maintaining airworthiness considerations and requirements.
The innovation and proactive approach already by CPL Harmon in developing the NH90 Main Rotor De-Icing Harness repair has significant benefit for the Air Force. Over the in-service life of the aircraft this repair will provide considerable financial savings which is expected to be up to $400,000 annually.
Officer in charge of Maintenance Support Squadron at Base Ohakea Squadron Leader Charanjit Singh said CPL Harmon was a forward-thinking individual who identified a better way to manage NH90 De-icing harness rejections and disposals.
“Her pragmatic work approach resulted in a solution, which not only provided cost savings but also increased the availability of the part. CPL Harmon is very thorough and diligent in all aspects of her work and consistently seeks ways to improve.
“Her outstanding technical merit and her dedication to maintain high technical standards makes her a model Aircraft Technician and a model airman.”
