Challenger Memo #2

URGENT - IMMEDIATE PROTOCOL PROCEDURE CHANGE

TO: DISTRIBUTION

FROM: SHARON BRAINARD, ENGINEER

RE: O RING FAILURE
____________________________________________________________

In light of a series of reports administration has instituted the following protocol procedure change, effective immediately.

Reports have indicated the O Ring seal is inadequate and the O Rings show signs of distress at lower temperatures. After reviewing the findings of Precision Rubber Products, Corp., it has been determined that the O Ring sealing ability is unable to reseal after reaching certain degrees or other environmental factors, which would cause complete malfunction of the Challenger Shuttle. Preventing O Ring erosion, culminating in the possibility of a flight failure and the catastrophe of loss of human life, is our top priority.

Given the unknown and unstable materials evidently used in the putty to seal the O Rings, and the potential for additional erosion and re-sealing problems, more investigation is required. Precision Rubber Products, Corp., is required to re-evaluate their products and determine the cause of the problem with re-sealing. Adjustments will be implemented.

Until further notice, missions will be temporarily aborted if the temperature has dropped below 61 degrees fahrenheit or until a re-designed putty has been identified.

NOTES: Selzner discusses how the social context determines the broad procedures writers follow as they write and shape the arguments offered; because of this truth, Kathy and I have chosen to focus on the immediate danger of the O Rings, the putty used for the O Rings, and to define clarifications on temperature variations, not the cycling of the memos from one company to the next or to their management, and not to criticize the leadership and management of the companies involved. The point of this memo is to address the distress of the O Rings and the danger it presents. We have kept the same audience to keep all who have been involved a chance to read and understand the importance of this O Ring finding. The purpose of this memo is to align us all in the right direction which regarding safety of the astronauts aboard the Challenger.