Surge Pressure Testing of Flight-Like Components

Abstract

This project studies the transient surge pressure effects (such as those observed during propulsion system priming) on flight components. A water flow setup was used to impart transient surge pressures on flight-like components. The project compared the point of component failure for transient surge pressures versus static proof pressures. Results showed that designing to keep surge pressures below component proof pressures is overly conservative, because the components can handle higher transient pressures. The tests performed on burst discs showed that the rupture pressure under a transient surge pressure was at least 20% above the static rupture pressure. A tested pressure transducer remained fully functional and accurate after surge pressures 60% above its specified proof pressure. A thruster valve was exposed to transient surge pressures four times its specified proof pressure and showed no indications of damage.