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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 181 records · Page 10

Laser holographic nondestructive testing of the NASA X-248 rocket motor

A program to apply holography for nondestructive testing of the X-248 rocket motor was undertaken. The objective was to establish the capability of holography in detecting known unbonding between liner and propellant. Holography was performed employing stressing techniques: (1) acoustical, (2) thermal, (3) radiative, and (4) static loading. Radiative stressing was successful in locating a large area of liner/propellant unbond. The results were correlated with destructive testing. Theoretical analysis provided an understanding of motor case holography in conjunction with radiative stressing.

Harris, W. J.↗

Testing methods and techniques: Quality control and nondestructive testing: A complication

A variety of devices and techniques useful in nondestructive testing is described. Ranging in complexity from an automated ultrasonic testing system designed for complex laminated honeycomb structures, to a flexible leak detector probe, the items represent either potential savings in cost and time, or improvement in inspection quality over past techniques. Data cover weld and braze inspection, leak detection, and inspection of composite materials.

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Nondestructive evaluation technique guide

A total of 70 individual nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques are described. Information is presented that permits ease of comparison of the merits and limitations of each technique with respect to various NDE problems. An NDE technique classification system is presented. It is based on the system that was adopted by the National Materials Advisory Board (NMAB). The classification system presented follows the NMAB system closely with the exception of additional categories that have been added to cover more advanced techniques presently in use. The rationale of the technique is explained. The format provides for a concise description of each technique, the physical principles involved, objectives of interrogation, example applications, limitations of each technique, a schematic illustration, and key reference material. Cross-index tabulations are also provided so that particular NDE problems can be referred to appropriate techniques.

Vary, A.↗

Nondestructive determination of radionuclides in lunar samples using a large low-background gamma-ray spectrometer and a novel application of least-squares fitting

Dual-parameter gamma ray spectrometer systems with large volume Nal (Tl) crystals and low backgrounds were used for nondestructive determination of K, Th, U and cosmic ray produced radionuclides in 60 lunar samples. The total weight of samples measured with this system is 28 kg, and the individual sample weights varied from 2 to 2300 g. Samples from Apollo 11, 12, 14, 15 and 16 were measured. Operation of the spectrometers in the coincidence mode and analyzing single coincidence spectra permits the simultaneous determination of 8-10 radionuclides in each lunar sample.

Eldridge, J. S.↗

The detection of fatigue cracks by nondestructive testing methods

X-radiographic penetrant, ultrasonic, eddy current, holographic, and acoustic emission techniques were optimized and applied to the evaluation of 2219-T87 aluminum alloy test specimens. One hundred eighteen specimens containing a total of 328 fatigue cracks were evaluated. The cracks ranged in length from 0.500 inch (1.27 cm) to 0.007 inch (0.018 cm) and in depth from 0.178 inch (0.451 cm) and 0.001 inch (0.003 cm). Specimen thicknesses were nominally 0.060 inch (0.152 cm) and 0.210 inch (0.532 cm) and surface finishes were nominally 32 and 125 rms and 64 and 200 rms respectively. Specimens were evaluated in the as-milled surface condition, in the chemically milled surface condition and, after proof loading, in a randomized inspection sequence. Results of the nondestructive test (NDT) evaluations were compared with actual crack size obtained by measurement of the fractured specimens. Inspection data was then analyzed to provide a statistical basis for determinating the threshold crack detection sensitivity (the largest crack size that would be missed) for each of the inspection techniques at a 95% probability and 95% confidence level.

Rummel, W. D.↗

Holographic nondestructive tests performed on composite samples of ceramic-epoxy-fiberglass sandwich structure

When a hologram storing more than one wave is illuminated with coherent light, the reconstructed wave fronts interfere with each other or with any other phase-related wave front derived from the illuminating source. This multiple wave front comparison is called holographic interferometry, and its application is called holographic nondestructive testing (HNDT). The theoretical aspects of HNDT techniques and the sensitivity of the holographic system to the geometrical placement of the optical components are briefly discussed. A unique HNDT system which is mobile and possesses variable sensitivity to stress amplitude is discribed, the experimental evidence of the application of this system to the testing of the hidden debonds in a ceramic-epoxy-fiberglass structure used for sample testing of the radome of the Pershing missile system is presented.

Kurtz, R. L.↗

Proceedings of the workshop on structural composites and nondestructive evaluation

The problems and opportunities in the nondestructive evaluation of composites are covered in formal papers and a summary of the discussion which took place at a Workshop held in Dayton on February 13-14, 1974. The recommendations arrived at by an NMAB Committee, on flaw detection, composite strength, standardization and design information, and research on composite degradation are stated.

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Summary of the nondestructive evaluation session

Advanced material systems and designs require improved nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques for quality control, failure analysis and properties monitoring. Some advanced NDE techniques such as infrared scanning systems, laser holographic applications and the use of the Mossbauer effect are outlined. Applications of these techniques are discussed for evaluating the new space shuttle external insulation materials, aircraft structures and engine components, and precursors to crack initiation and growth.

Stinebring, R. C.↗

NASA CR-2120 - Summary of nondestructive testing theory and practice

This is a familiarization report of nondestructive testing (ndt) prepared by staff of the Battelle Columbus Laboratories on a NASA contract. There is a short introduction, a chapter on applicability of ndt which is illustrated with examples of typical defects and includes tables comparing the characteristics, interrelationships, and costs of the different techniques. There are chapters dealing with penetrants, magnetic particle radiography, ultrasonics, and eddy currents. New techniques are described.

Meister, R. P.↗

Nondestructive measurement of capillary tube internal diameter

Technique provides nondestructive method of making quick, accurate determination by measuring electrical resistance of capillary tube when it is filled with electrolyte of known conductivity. Apparatus consists of conductivity cell and equipment for measuring resistance and for monitoring and controlling temperature.

Ho, W. W.↗

Preliminary nondestructive evaluation manual for the space shuttle

Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) requirements are presented for some 134 potential fracture-critical structural areas identified, for the entire space shuttle vehicle system, as those possibly needing inspection during refurbishment/turnaround and prelaunch operations. The requirements include critical area and defect descriptions, access factors, recommended NDE techniques, and descriptive artwork. Requirements discussed include: Orbiter structure, external tank, solid rocket booster, and thermal protection system (development area).

Pless, W. M.↗

The fabrication, testing and delivery of boron/epoxy and graphite/epoxy nondestructive test standards

A description is given of the boron/epoxy and graphite/epoxy nondestructive test standards which were fabricated, tested and delivered to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Detailed design drawings of the standards are included to show the general structures and the types and location of simulated defects built into the panels. The panels were laminates with plies laid up in the 0 deg, + or - 45 deg, and 90 deg orientations and containing either titanium substrates or interlayered titanium perforated shims. Panel thickness was incrementally stepped from 2.36 mm (0.093 in.) to 12.7 mm (0.500 in.) for the graphite/epoxy standards, and from 2.36 mm (0.093 in.) to 6.35 mm (0.25 in.) for the boron/epoxy standards except for the panels with interlayered shims which were 2.9 mm (0.113 in.) maximum thickness. The panel internal conditions included defect free regions, resin variations, density/porosity variations, cure variations, delaminations/disbonds at substrate bondlines and between layers, inclusions, and interlayered shims. Ultrasonic pulse echo C-scan and low-kilovoltage X-ray techniques were used to evaluate and verify the internal conditions of the panels.

Pless, W. M.↗

Holographic system for nondestructive testing

A description is given of a holographic system for nondestructive testing. The system is comprised of a mirror which illuminates the test object surface; the mirror is positionable to direct illumination on an object at varying angles with respect to a line normal to the surface of the object. In this manner holograms may be produced with varying degrees of sensitivity enabling optimum observation of dimensions of deformation of an object occurring between test exposures.

Kurtz, R. L.↗

The detection of fatigue cracks by nondestructive test methods

X-radiographic, penetrant, ultrasonic, and eddy current techniques were optimized and applied to the evaluation of 2219-T87 aluminum alloy test specimens. One hundred eighteen specimens containing a total of 328 fatigue cracks were evaluated. The cracks ranged in length from 1.27 to 0.018 cm and in depth from 0.451 to 0.003 cm. Specimen thicknesses were nominally 0.152 and 0.532 cm. Specimens were evaluated in the 'as-milled' surface condition, in the etched surface condition, and, after proof loading, in a randomized inspection sequence. Results of the nondestructive test evaluations were compared with actual crack size obtained by analysis of the fractured specimens. Inspection data were then analyzed to provide a statistical basis for determining the threshold crack detection sensitivity for each of the inspection techniques at a 95% probability and 95% confidence level.

Rummel, W. D.↗

Nondestructive evaluation of electroformed outer shells for regeneratively cooled thrust chambers

Electroforming is presently a prime technique for producing the outer jackets of regeneratively cooled thrust chambers for rocket engines. Good bond integrity of the electroformed joints adjacent to the coolant passages is important to the useful service life of these aerospace systems. This investigation demonstrated that nondestructive evaluation techniques such as ultrasonic 'C' scan, holography, and acoustic emission are capable of detecting low integrity bonds which could lead to premature failures in the subject hardware.

Malone, G. A.↗

Nondestructive interior examination of moving parts

Microphone and amplified audio system are used in conjunction with X-ray nondestructive testing to detect foreign particles inside moving hardware when particles cannot be located by X-ray alone.

Baker, F. A.↗

Evaluation of a composite mobile holographic nondestructive test system

A simplified theoretical model for the interpretation of the double-exposure holographic interference fringe loci due to the general three-dimensional displacements was derived for the specific composite mobile holographic nondestructive test system. The model, representing a good approximation to a more tedious theoretical result, predicts that a combination of in-plane and out-of-plane displacements of the surface will produce concentric circular-shaped fringe patterns with locations of their center affected by the displacements. Appropriate experiments were designed and carried out for the test of the validity of the theory. These experiments include the taking of double-exposure holograms of in-plane translations and combined in-plane and out-of-plane translations. The simplified model agreed quite well with the experimental results. Experimentally observed effects due to the curvature of the test plate and the variations of the angles of incidence of the laser light suggest that in order for the simplified model to be able to predict the test results more accurately, incidence and reflection of the laser light should be chosen as nearly perpendicular to the surface of the tested object as possible.

Liu, H. K.↗