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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 217 records · Page 12
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1981

Flow quality measurements in transonic wind tunnels and planned calibration of the National Transonic Facility

The need for mean flow and dynamic flow quality measurements for the National Transonic Facility (NTF) was considered. Past experience in making flow quality measurements in transonic flows and at cryogenic temperatures was used to guide the selection of methods to be used in the NTF. It appears that suitable instrumentation will be available and adequate experience has been obtained to insure that the proper calibration of the NTF can be made.

Stainback, P. C.↗
NASA NTRS2007

Density and Cavitating Flow Results from a Full-Scale Optical Multiphase Cryogenic Flowmeter

Liquid propulsion systems are hampered by poor flow measurements. The measurement of flow directly impacts safe motor operations, performance parameters as well as providing feedback from ground testing and developmental work. NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, in an effort to improve propulsion sensor technology, has developed an all optical flow meter that directly measures the density of the fluid. The full-scale sensor was tested in a transient, multiphase liquid nitrogen fluid environment. Comparison with traditional density models shows excellent agreement with fluid density with an error of approximately 0.8%. Further evaluation shows the sensor is able to detect cavitation or bubbles in the flow stream and separate out their resulting effects in fluid density.

Korman, Valentin↗
NASA NTRS1986

Vortex shedding flow meter performance at high flow velocities

In some of the ducts of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME), the maximum liquid oxygen flow velocities approach 10 times those at which liquid flow measurements are normally made. The hydrogen gas flow velocities in other ducts exceed the maximum for gas flow measurement by more than a factor of 3. The results presented here show from water flow tests that vortex shedding flow meters of the appropriate design can measure water flow to velocities in excess of 55 m/s, which is a Reynolds number of about 2 million. Air flow tests have shown that the same meter can measure flow to a Reynolds number of at least 22 million. Vortex shedding meters were installed in two of the SSME ducts and tested with water flow. Narrow spectrum lines were obtained and the meter output frequencies were proportional to flow to + or - 0.5% or better over the test range with no flow conditioning, even though the ducts had multiple bends preceeding the meter location. Meters with the shedding elements only partially spanning the pipe and some meters with ring shaped shedding elements were also tested.

Siegwarth, J. D.↗
NASA NTRS1974

An experimental and analytical study of slip and catalytic boundary conditions applied to spheres in low Reynolds number arc jet flows

Measurements of low-density dissociated arc-heated flows around low and high surface catalycity spheres are compared with numerical solutions to the full Navier-Stokes equations for reacting gas flow fields, taking into account slip and finite surface catalytic boundary conditions. A time-dependent finite difference solution technique developed by Li (1973, 1974) is used in the investigation and a simple transport model is employed for the flows considered. The correctness of the solution approach is demonstrated by the very good agreement obtained between experimental and computational data.

Scott, C. D.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Turbulent multiphase flows

Measurements and predictions of the structure of several multiphase flows are considered. The properties of dense sprays near the exits of pressure-atomizing injectors and of noncombusting and combusting dilute dispersed flows in round-jet configurations are addressed. It is found that the properties of dense sprays exhibit structure and mixing properties similar to variable-density single-phase flows at high Reynolds numbers within the atomization regime. The degree of development and turbulence levels at the injector exit have a surprisingly large effect on the structure and mixing properties of pressure-atomized sprays, particularly when the phase densities are large. Contemporary stochastic analysis of dilute multiphase flows provides encouraging predictions of turbulent dispersion for a wide variety of jetlike flows, particle-laden jets in gases and liquids, noncondensing and condensing bubbly jets, and nonevaporating, evaporating, and combusting sprays.

Faeth, G. M.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Flow direction measurement criteria and techniques planned for the 40- by 80-/80- x 120-foot wind tunnel integrated systems tests

A study was performed in order to develop the criteria for the selection of flow direction indicators for use in the Integrated Systems Tests (ISTs) of the 40 by 80/80 by 120 Foot Wind Tunnel System. The problems, requirements, and limitations of flow direction measurement in the wind tunnel were investigated. The locations and types of flow direction measurements planned in the facility were discussed. A review of current methods of flow direction measurement was made and the most suitable technique for each location was chosen. A flow direction vane for each location was chosen. A flow direction vane that employs a Hall Effect Transducer was then developed and evaluated for application during the ISTs.

Zell, P. T.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Three dimensional flow field measurements of a 4:1 aspect ratio subsonic jet

Flow field measurements for a subsonic rectangular cold air jet with an aspect ratio of 4:1 (12.7 x 50.8 mm) at a Mach number of 0.09 and Re of 100,000 have been carried out using a three-dimensional laser Doppler anemometer system. Mean velocity measurements show that the jet width spreads more rapidly along the minor axis than along the major axis. The outward velocities, however, are not significantly different for the two axes, indicating the presence of enhanced mixing along the minor axis. The jet slowly changes from a rectangular jet to a circular jet as the flow progresses downstream.

Morrison, G. L.↗
NASA NTRS1977

Velocity sensor for slow flows

Inexpensive, easily-constructed device measures flows from 0.2 to 20 feet per second. Instrument is capable of measuring flow velocity and direction in cases where either velocity or density is so low that dynamic pressure is below measurable range. It can be made into hand held instrument for measuring ventilation and air conditioning flow.

Simon, W. E.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Effects of Passive Porosity on Interacting Vortex Flows at Supersonic Speeds

A wind tunnel experiment was conducted in the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPW7) to determine the effects of passive surface porosity on vortex flow interactions about a general research fighter configuration at supersonic speeds. Optical flow measurement and flow visualization techniques were used and included pressure-sensitive paint (PSP), schlieren, and laser vapor screen (LVS). These techniques were combined with force and moment and conventional electronically-scanned pressure (ESP) measurements to quantify and to visualize the effects flow-through porosity applied to a wing leading-edge extension (LEX) mounted to a 65 deg cropped delta wing model.

Erickson, Gary E.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Investigation of a laser Doppler velocimeter system to measure the flow field of a large scale V/STOL aircraft in ground effect

An experimental research program for measuring the flow field around a 70 percent scale V/STOL aircraft model in ground effect is described. The velocity measurements were conducted with a ground-based laser Doppler velocimeter at an outdoor test pad. The remote sensing instrumentation, experimental tests, and results of the velocity surveys are discussed. The distribution of vertical velocity in the fan jet and fountain, the radial velocity in the wall jet and the horizontal velocity along the aircraft underside are presented for different engine rpms and aircraft heights above ground. The study shows that it is feasible to use a mobile laser Doppler velocimeter to measure the flow field generated by a large scale V/STOL aircraft operating in ground effect.

Zalay, A. D.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Effects of Passive Porosity on Interacting Vortex Flows At Supersonic Speeds

A wind tunnel experiment was conducted in the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) to determine the effects of passive surface porosity on vortex flow interaction about a general research fighter configuration at supersonic speeds. Optical flow measurement and flow visualization techniques were used and included pressure-sensitive paint (PSP), schlieren, and laser vapor screen (LVS) These techniques were combined with force and moment and conventional electronically-scanned pressure (ESP) measurements to quantify and to visualize the effects of flow-through porosity applied to a wing leading-edge extension (LEX) mounted to a 65 deg cropped delta wing model.

Erickson, Gary E.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Surface and flow field measurements in a symmetric crossing shock wave/turbulent boundary-layer interaction

Results of an experimental investigation of a symmetric crossing shock/turbulent boundary layer interaction are presented for a Mach number of 3.44 and deflection angles of 2, 6, 8, and 9 degrees. The interaction strengths vary from weak to strong enough to cause a large region of separated flow. Measured quantities include surface static pressure (both steady and unsteady) and flowfield Pitot pressures. Pitot profiles in the plane of symmetry through the interaction region are shown for various deflection angles. Oil flow visualization and the results of a trace gas streamline tracking technique are also presented.

Davis, D. O.↗
NASA NTRS2007

Wind Tunnel Investigation of the Effects of Surface Porosity and Vertical Tail Placement on Slender Wing Vortex Flow Aerodynamics at Supersonic Speeds

A wind tunnel experiment was conducted in the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) to determine the effects of passive surface porosity and vertical tail placement on vortex flow development and interactions about a general research fighter configuration at supersonic speeds. Optical flow measurement and flow visualization techniques were used that featured pressure sensitive paint (PSP), laser vapor screen (LVS), and schlieren, These techniques were combined with conventional electronically-scanned pressure (ESP) and six-component force and moment measurements to quantify and to visualize the effects of flow-through porosity applied to a wing leading edge extension (LEX) and the placement of centerline and twin vertical tails on the vortex-dominated flow field of a 65 cropped delta wing model. Test results were obtained at free-stream Mach numbers of 1.6, 1.8, and 2.1 and a Reynolds number per foot of 2.0 million. LEX porosity promoted a wing vortex-dominated flow field as a result of a diffusion and weakening of the LEX vortex. The redistribution of the vortex-induced suction pressures contributed to large nose-down pitching moment increments but did not significantly affect the vortex-induced lift. The trends associated with LEX porosity were unaffected by vertical tail placement. The centerline tail configuration generally provided more stable rolling moments and yawing moments compared to the twin wing-mounted vertical tails. The strength of a complex system of shock waves between the twin tails was reduced by LEX porosity.

Erickson, Gary E.↗
NASA NTRS1971

Flow field measurements for cylindrical configurations in a hypersonic wind tunnel: Windward and leeward flow fields

Windward and leeward measurements were made for a variety of simulated infinite cylinders exposed to hypersonic streams over an angle of attack from 30 deg to 90 deg. For the range of conditions included in the study, the following conclusions are made: (1) Swept cylinder theory provides a reasonable correlation of the measured laminar heat transfer rates from the plane of symmetry. (2) The boundary layer transition criteria in the plane of symmetry are a function of the transverse curvature. (3) Relaminarization of the circumferential boundary layer for a right circular cylinder was observed at the highest Reynolds number tested. (4) The effect of leeside geometry on the average heat transfer rate can be correlated with a single geometric parameter which is dependent on the location of separation. (5) The relationship of leeward heating to angle of attack is virtually linear for each cross section. (6) No systematic effect of free stream Reynolds number was observed.

Bertin, J. J.↗
NASA NTRS1997

Retrofitting Laboratory Fume Hoods With Face Velocity Monitors at NASA Lewis Research Center

Extensive use and reliance on laboratory fume hoods exist at LeRC for the control of chemical hazards (nearly 175 fume hoods). Flow-measuring devices are necessary to continually monitor hood performance. The flow-measuring device should he tied into an energy management control system to detect problems at a central location without relying on the users to convey information of a problem. Compatibility concerns and limitations should always be considered when choosing the most effective flow-measuring device for a particular situation. Good practice on initial hood design and placement will provide a system for which a flow-measuring device may be used to its full potential and effectiveness.

Wagner, Ingrid E.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Microphone Corrections for Accurate In-Flow Acoustic Measurements at High Frequency

Acoustic analysis of aircraft components through small-scale experiments in wind tunnels requires in-flow acoustic measurements at high frequencies. This high frequency information is shifted to lower frequencies during the geometric scaling process. As a result, models of scale one tenth and smaller require frequency information of up to at least 100 kHz to resolve the midpoint of the full-scale equivalent audible range. Farfield acoustic measurements of frequencies higher than 100 kHz are prohibitively difficult to make due to the physical limitations of atmospheric propagation over large distances and the delicacy of the required instruments. Even measurements up to 100 kHz require special corrections and calibration procedures to maintain sufficient accuracy. In-flow microphone measurements at high frequencies require additional consideration due to the presence of the aerodynamic microphone forebody which protects the microphone diaphragm from flow impingement. The screen located at the forebody surface attenuates the high frequency acoustic waves and must be accounted for. The purpose of this paper is to present procedures for calibrating and correcting high frequency acoustic measurements to retain high accuracy. Specifically, this paper gives calibration procedures and examples of typical data for calibrating or correcting for five physical effects. These effects include the frequency response of the entire acoustic data acquisition system, intrusion of the microphone into the acoustic field, forebody screen attenuation, directionality of microphone forebody response and atmospheric absorption.

Allen, Christopher S.↗
NASA NTRS2003

Flow Field Measurement of Mixing Driven by Buoyancy

Mixing driven by buoyancy-induced flows inside a cavity consists of stretching and folding of an interface. Measurement of the flow field using particle imaging velocimetry shows that during stretching the flow field has a single elliptic point, thus dominated by a single vortex. However, global bifurcation that results in folding introduces a hyperbolic point whereby the flow field degenerates to multiple vortex interactions. The short-lived coherent structure observed during mixing which results in the Rayleigh- Taylor morphology is attributed to vortex interactions. The mixing characteristics of non-homogeneous fluids driven by buoyancy are important towards understanding transport phenomenon in a microgravity environment. Mixing consists of stretching and folding of an interface due to a flow field whose intensity depends on the body force. For miscible liquids, the characteristic of the flow field determines whether mass transport is governed by diffusion or bulk stirring which induces mixing. For technologically important processes, transport of mass is governed by the coupling of the body force to scalar gradients such as concentration and or temperature' 2 3 . In order to lend insight into these classes of problems we consider a model experimental system to study mixing driven by buoyancy-induced flows. The characteristics of mixing is addressed from detail measurements of the flow field using particle imaging velocimetry (PIV), and its corresponding interface dynamics using image processing techniques.

Batur, C.↗