Structural Integrity Field System

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The mechanical integrity of the physical spaceframe of a starship is augmented by the structural integrity field (SIF) system. This system provides a network of forcefield segments that compensate for propulsive and other structural load factors that otherwise exceed the design limits of the spaceframe. The SIF applies forcefield energy directly to field conductive elements within the spaceframe and increases the load-bearing capacity of the structure.

Field generation for the SIF is provided by a number of field generators. A Galaxy-class vessel has five generators, three on Deck 11 of the Primary Hull, and two on Deck 32 in the Secondary Hull. Each generator consists of a cluster of twenty 12 MW graviton polarity sources feeding a pair of 250 millicochrane subspace field distortion amplifiers. Heat dissipation on each unit is provided by a pair of 300,000 megajoules per hour (MJ/hr) continuous-duty liquid helium coolant loops. (Two backup generators are located on each Hull of the Galaxy-class, providing up to twelve hours of service at 55% of maximum rated power). Normal duty cycle on generators is thirty-six hours online, with nominal twenty-four hours degauss and scheduled maintenance time. Graviton polarity sources are rated for 1,500 operating hours between routine servicing of supercondictive elements.