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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

Radial and circumferential flow surveys at the inlet and exit of the Space Shuttle Main Engine High Pressure Fuel Turbine Model

The main objective of this test was to obtain detailed radial and circumferential flow surveys at the inlet and exit of the SSME High Pressure Fuel Turbine model using three-hole cobra probes, hot-film probes, and a laser velocimeter. The test was designed to meet several objectives. First, the techniques for making laser velocimeter, hot-film probe, and cobra probe measurements in turbine flows were developed and demonstrated. The ability to use the cobra probes to obtain static pressure and, therefore, velocity had to be verified; insertion techniques had to be established for the fragile hot-film probes; and a seeding method had to be established for the laser velocimetry. Once the measurement techniques were established, turbine inlet and exit velocity profiles, temperature profiles, pressure profiles, turbulence intensities, and boundary layer thicknesses were measured at the turbine design point. The blockage effect due to the model inlet and exit total pressure and total temperature rakes on the turbine performance was also studied. A small range of off-design points were run to obtain the profiles and to verify the rake blockage effects off-design. Finally, a range of different Reynolds numbers were run to study the effect of Reynolds number on the various measurements.

Hudson, S. T.↗

Composition Effects on Kilonova Spectra and Light Curves. I

The merger of neutron star binaries is believed to eject a wide range of heavy elements into the universe. By observing the emission from this ejecta, scientists can probe the ejecta properties (mass, velocity, and composition distributions). The emission (a.k.a. kilonova) is powered by the radioactive decay of the heavy isotopes produced in the merger and this emission is reprocessed by atomic opacities to optical and infrared wavelengths. Understanding the ejecta properties requires calculating the dependence of this emission on these opacities. The strong lines in the optical and infrared in lanthanide opacities have been shown to significantly alter the light curves and spectra in these wavelength bands, arguing that the emission in these wavelengths can probe the composition of this ejecta. In this work, we study variations in the kilonova emission by varying individual lanthanide (and the actinide uranium) concentrations in the ejecta. The broad forest of lanthanide lines makes it difficult to determine the exact fraction of individual lanthanides. Nd is an exception. Its opacities above 1 μm are higher than other lanthanides and observations of kilonovae can potentially probe increased abundances of Nd. Similarly, at early times when the ejecta is still hot (first day), the U opacity is strong in the 0.2–1 μm wavelength range and kilonova observations may also be able to constrain these abundances.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Flap survey test of a combined surface blowing model: Flow measurements at static flow conditions

The Combined Surface Blowing (CSB) V/STOL lift/propulsion system consists of a blown flap system which deflects the exhaust from a turbojet engine over a system of flaps deployed at the trailing edge of the wing. Flow measurements consisting of velocity measurements using split film probes and total measure surveys using a miniature Kiel probe were made at control stations along the flap systems at two spanwise stations, the centerline of the nozzle and 60 percent of the nozzle span outboard of the centerline. Surface pressure measurements were made in the wing cove and the upper surface of the first flap element. The test showed a significant flow separation in the wing cove. The extent of the separation is so large that the flow into the first flap takes place only at the leading edge of the flap. The velocity profile measurements indicate that large spanwise (3 dimensional) flow may exist.

Fukushima, T.↗

Hypersonic Boundary Layer Measurements with Variable Blowing Rates Using Molecular Tagging Velocimetry

Measurements of mean and instantaneous streamwise velocity profiles in a hypersonic boundary layer with variable rates of mass injection (blowing) of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were obtained over a 10-degree half-angle wedge model. The NO2 was seeded into the flow from a slot located 29.4 mm downstream of the sharp leading edge. The top surface of the wedge was oriented at a 20 degree angle in the Mach 10 flow, yielding an edge Mach number of approximately 4.2. The streamwise velocity profiles and streamwise fluctuating velocity component profiles were obtained using a three-laser NO2->NO photolysis molecular tagging velocimetry method. Observed trends in the mean streamwise velocity profiles and profiles of the fluctuating component of streamwise velocity as functions of the blowing rate are described. An effort is made to distinguish between the effect of blowing rate and wall temperature on the measured profiles. An analysis of the mean velocity profiles for a constant blowing rate is presented to determine the uncertainty in the measurement for different probe laser delay settings. Measurements of streamwise velocity were made to within approximately 120 gm of the model surface. The streamwise spatial resolution in this experiment ranged from 0.6 mm to 2.6 mm. An improvement in the spatial precision of the measurement technique has been made, with spatial uncertainties reduced by about a factor of 2 compared to previous measurements. For the quiescent flow calibration measurements presented, uncertainties as low as 2 m/s are obtained at 95% confidence for long delay times (25 gs). For the velocity measurements obtained with the wind tunnel operating, average single-shot uncertainties of less than 44 m/s are obtained at 95% confidence with a probe laser delay setting of 1 gs. The measurements were performed in the 31-inch Mach 10 Air Tunnel at the NASA Langley Research Center.

Bathel, Brett F.↗

Performance of entry heat shields on Pioneer Venus probes

The Pioneer Venus probes approached Venus with high relative velocity. As they entered the atmosphere, they were rapidly decelerated by aerodynamic drag, and a great deal of heat was generated. To protect the probe structure and the scientific instruments, a carbon phenolic heat shield was placed on the front of the probes. Because the design of heat shields for planetary entry is a developing technology, thermocouples were placed in the heat shields so that actual and predicted heat shield performance could be compared. The function of the heat shield is discussed, the probe environments during entry into the Venusian atmosphere are described, and some results from the heat shield experiment are presented. It was found that for the most part, the heat shields performed better than expected.

Pitts, W. C.↗

Model independent approach for calculating galaxy rotation curves for low S/N MaNGA galaxies

Internal kinematics of galaxies, traced through the stellar rotation curve or two dimensional velocity map, carry important information on galactic structure and dark matter. With upcoming surveys, the velocity map may play a key role in the development of kinematic lensing as an astrophysical probe. Here, we improve techniques for extracting velocity information from integral field spectroscopy at low signal-to-noise (S/N), without a template, and demonstrate substantial advantages over the standard Penalized PiXel-Fitting method (pPXF) approach. Robust rotation curves can be derived down to S/N ≈ 2 using our method.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Three-dimensional flow field in a turbine nozzle passage

Detailed measurements were taken in the nozzle of a low speed single stage axial flow turbine at two axial planes inside the nozzle and on the nozzle and endwall surfaces. Velocity, turbulence and angle measurements were taken at midchord with an LDV while a five hole probe was used to measure the pressure, velocities and angles just upstream of the trailing edge. Nozzle surface and endwall static pressures were also measured. These measurements were compared to measurements previously completed at two axial planes downstream of the nozzle. The results show that at midchord, the secondary flow seems to be weak and it is in the early stages of development. Just upstream of the trailing edge, the secondary flow is clearly visible. The radially inward flow near the suction surface augments the casing passage vortex, while counteracting the hub passage vortex. Traveling downstream, the casing passage vortex remains strong while at the hub, the radially inward flow of the suction surface boundary layer has reversed direction due to the rotating hub. The blade static pressures and the passage averaged velocities compare well with Katsanis' quasi-three-dimensional code. These and other data are presented, interpreted and synthesized to understand the nozzle flow field.

Zaccaria, M.↗

Flow structure generated by perpendicular blade-vortex interaction and implications for helicopter noise prediction. Volume 1: Measurements

The perpendicular interaction of a streamwise vortex with an infinite span helicopter blade was modeled experimentally in incompressible flow. Three-component velocity and turbulence measurements were made using a sub-miniature four sensor hot-wire probe. Vortex core parameters (radius, peak tangential velocity, circulation, and centerline axial velocity deficit) were determined as functions of blade-vortex separation, streamwise position, blade angle of attack, vortex strength, and vortex size. The downstream development of the flow shows that the interaction of the vortex with the blade wake is the primary cause of the changes in the core parameters. The blade sheds negative vorticity into its wake as a result of the induced angle of attack generated by the passing vortex. Instability in the vortex core due to its interaction with this negative vorticity region appears to be the catalyst for the magnification of the size and intensity of the turbulent flowfield downstream of the interaction. In general, the core radius increases while peak tangential velocity decreases with the effect being greater for smaller separations. These effects are largely independent of blade angle of attack; and if these parameters are normalized on their undisturbed values, then the effects of the vortex strength appear much weaker. Two theoretical models were developed to aid in extending the results to other flow conditions. An empirical model was developed for core parameter prediction which has some rudimentary physical basis, implying usefulness beyond a simple curve fit. An inviscid flow model was also created to estimate the vorticity shed by the interaction blade, and to predict the early stages of its incorporation into the interacting vortex.

Wittmer, Kenneth S.↗

Magnetic Flux Compression Experiments Using Plasma Armatures

Magnetic flux compression reaction chambers offer considerable promise for controlling the plasma flow associated with various micronuclear/chemical pulse propulsion and power schemes, primarily because they avoid thermalization with wall structures and permit multicycle operation modes. The major physical effects of concern are the diffusion of magnetic flux into the rapidly expanding plasma cloud and the development of Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities at the plasma surface, both of which can severely degrade reactor efficiency and lead to plasma-wall impact. A physical parameter of critical importance to these underlying magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) processes is the magnetic Reynolds number (R(sub m), the value of which depends upon the product of plasma electrical conductivity and velocity. Efficient flux compression requires R(sub m) less than 1, and a thorough understanding of MHD phenomena at high magnetic Reynolds numbers is essential to the reliable design and operation of practical reactors. As a means of improving this understanding, a simplified laboratory experiment has been constructed in which the plasma jet ejected from an ablative pulse plasma gun is used to investigate plasma armature interaction with magnetic fields. As a prelude to intensive study, exploratory experiments were carried out to quantify the magnetic Reynolds number characteristics of the plasma jet source. Jet velocity was deduced from time-of-flight measurements using optical probes, and electrical conductivity was measured using an inductive probing technique. Using air at 27-inHg vacuum, measured velocities approached 4.5 km/s and measured conductivities were in the range of 30 to 40 kS/m.

Turner, M. W.↗

Theoretical derivation and calibration technique of a hemispherical-tipped, five-hole probe

A technique is presented for the calibration of a hemispherical tipped 0.125 inch diameter 5-hole probe. The derivation of equations from the potential flow over a sphere relating the flow angle and velocity to pressure differentials measured by the probe is presented. The technique for acquiring the calibration data and the technique used to calculate the calibration coefficients are presented. The accuracy of the probe in both the uniform calibration flow field and the nonuniform flow field over a 75 degree swept delta wing is discussed.

Kjelgaard, Scott O.↗

Wedge and Conical Probes for the Instantaneous Measurement of Free-Stream Flow Quantities at Supersonic Speeds

Wedge and conical shaped probes for the measurement of free-stream flow quantities at supersonic speeds have been tested in both wind tunnel and flight. These probes have improved capabilities over similar ones used in the past. Through the use of miniature pressure sensors, that are located inside the probes, they are able to provide instantaneous measurements of a time-varying environment. Detailed herein are the results of the tests in NASA Langley Researcher Center s Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) at Mach numbers of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0, as well as flight tests carried out at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC) on its F-15 aircraft up to Mach numbers of 1.9. In the flight tests the probes were attached to a fixture on the underside of the F-15 fuselage. Problems controlling the velocity of the flow through the conical probe, required for accurate temperature measurements, are noted, as well as some calibration problems of the miniature pressure sensors that impact the accuracy of the measurements.

Bobbitt, Percy J.↗

Analysis of Trajectory Parameters for Probe and Round-Trip Missions to Venus

For one-way transfers between Earth and Venus, charts are obtained that show velocity, time, and angle parameters as functions of the eccentricity and semilatus rectum of the Sun-focused vehicle conic. From these curves, others are obtained that are useful in planning one-way and round-trip missions to Venus. The analysis is characterized by circular coplanar planetary orbits, successive two-body approximations, impulsive velocity changes, and circular parking orbits at 1.1 planet radii. For round trips the mission time considered ranges from 65 to 788 days, while wait time spent in the parking orbit at Venus ranges from 0 to 467 days. Individual velocity increments, one-way travel times, and departure dates are presented for round trips requiring the minimum total velocity increment. For both single-pass and orbiting Venusian probes, the time span available for launch becomes appreciable with only a small increase in velocity-increment capability above the minimum requirement. Velocity-increment increases are much more effective in reducing travel time for single-pass probes than they are for orbiting probes. Round trips composed of a direct route along an ellipse tangent to Earth's orbit and an aphelion route result in the minimum total velocity increment for wait times less than 100 days and mission times ranging from 145 to 612 days. Minimum-total-velocity-increment trips may be taken along perihelion-perihelion routes for wait times ranging from 300 to 467 days. These wait times occur during missions lasting from 640 to 759 days.

Dugan, James F., Jr.↗

Electric Field Double Probe Measurements on Satellites with Very Low Perigees

Measurements of DC and AC electric Fields at low altitudes (less than 150 km) in the Earth's ionosphere address a wide array of important scientific questions including Joule Heating, the closure of field aligned currents, and the deviation of E x B electron velocities from ion velocity vectors influenced by collisions. Double probes represent a well-proven technique for gathering high quality DC and AC electric field measurements for which the design of the boom system is of critical importance for the success of the experiment. In general, ionospheric DC electric field instruments that achieve accuracies of 0.1 mV/m or better, place sensors at large distances from the spacecraft body in order to extend well beyond the spacecraft wake and sheath and to achieve the large signal-to-noise ratios for DC and long wavelength measurements. Additional sets of sensors inboard of the primary, outermost sensors provide useful additional information, both for diagnostics of the plasma contact potentials, which particularly enhance the DC electric field measurements on non-spinning spacecraft, and for wavelength and phase velocity measurements that use the spaced receiver or "Interferometer" technique. Accurate attitude knowledge enables V x B contributions to be subtracted from the measured potentials, and permits the measured components to be rotated into meaningful geophysical reference frames. This presentation discusses the expected performance of electric field double probe experiments and their boom mechanisms on both spinning and non-spinning satellite platforms with very low perigees. Careful selection of probe surface materials, such as titanium nitride, for the low perigee environment, as well as thermal considerations are also discussed.

Pfaff, R. F., Jr.↗

Excited-state dynamics of CH 2 I 2 and CH 2 IBr studied with UV-pump VUV-probe momentum-resolved photoion spectroscopy

We perform time-resolved ionization spectroscopy measurements of the excited state dynamics of CH 2 I 2 and CH 2 IBr following photoexcitation in the deep UV. The fragment ions produced by ionization with a vacuum-ultraviolet probe pulse are measured with velocity map imaging, and the momentum resolved yields are compared with trajectory surface hopping calculations of the measurement observable. Together with recent time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy measurements of the same dynamics, these results provide a detailed picture of the coupled electronic and nuclear dynamics involved. Overall, our measurements highlight the non-adiabatic coupling between electronic states, which leads to notable differences in the dissociation dynamics for the two molecules.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗

Counterflow Virtual Impactor (CVI) Inlet Aboard Aircraft (INLETCVI-AIR) Instrument Handbook

The counterflow virtual impactor (CVI) inlet separates out and samples cloud elements via inertial impaction. Warm, dry, particle-free carrier gas of known composition is pumped to the tip of the inlet in the direction opposite of the flow of air. The flow lines of the incoming free stream air are split. Larger droplets and ice crystals suspended in the sample air have enough inertia to penetrate the counterflow and enter the sample flow, while smaller, unactivated particles follow the streamlines of the air flowing around the inlet’s tip (Noone et al. 1988). The instrument is capable of sampling cloud elements as a function of cut size by changing the velocity of counterflow at the probe tip. The CVI cut size is usually defined as a diameter of a smallest particle for which penetration rate is 50%. For the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) user facilityGulfstream-159 aircraft’s CVI inlet, that value is usually around 13 microns. The dry heated air, normally used as the carrier gas, also serves to evaporate water from the hydrometeor, leaving the residuals to be sampled by in-cabin aerosol instrumentation. The number concentration of the droplet residue in the CVI sample line is usually increased with respect to corresponding cloud element number concentration. The CVI performance as a concentrator is usually described via CVI enhancement factor, which is a conversion factor between ambient volumetric concentration (not adjusted to standard temperature and pressure) and volumetric concentration in the CVI sample line.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗