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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 253 records · Page 14

Velocity, Temperature and Density Measurements in Supersonic Jets

Prediction of the flow field properties in supersonic jets using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) codes is challenging when there is a significant temperature difference between the jet core and the ambient air and/or compressibility effects are substantial. A benchmark set of flow field property data were obtained to assess current CFD capabilities and develop better modeling approaches for these turbulent flow fields where accurate calculation of turbulent heat flux is important. Three different convergent-divergent nozzles were investigated with exit Mach numbers of: 1.36, 1.63 and 2.0 at their perfectly expanded conditions. The conditions of the jet were set to obtain a temperature difference of zero between the jet core and the ambient air, and then the temperature difference was progressively increased, at the same jet Mach number. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), spontaneous rotational Raman scattering spectroscopy (SRS), Background Oriented Schlieren (BOS) and probe-based measurements were used to acquire high quality, spatially-resolved measurements of the mean and root mean square (rms) velocities as well as the mean and rms gas temperatures and densities in both hot and cold supersonic jet flows. The non-intrusive flow measurements are compared both against probe measurements and against standard Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) predictions of the supersonic jet flow properties.

Raman Spectroscopy↗

Three-Dimensional Structure and Modeling of a Normal Bifurcated Shock Train from Experimental Measurements

An asymmetric, bifurcated normal shock train in a Mach 2 constant area, rectangular duct is investigated in the University of Michigan Direct Connect Isolator facility. High-speed schlieren imaging, wall static pressure measurements, surface oil flow visualization, and particle image velocimetry of a shock train are synthesized into a three-dimensional representation of shock train structure. This visualization is then used to inform the underlying flow physics of the distributed fluid dynamical processes along the structure. The detailed, three-dimensional morphology of the flow profile entering the shock train is shown to have a significant impact on the separated flow morphology of the shock train. This results in skewed supersonic core flow with alternating separation bubbles in the surrounding boundary layers. Finally, the efficacy of the prevailing pseudo-shock models in the literature is analyzed with the support of the available flow measurements. None are found to simultaneously model both the pressure and streamwise Mach number profile of the UMDCI pseudo-shock.

Hypersonics↗

Assessment of Pseudoshock Models Against Experiment in a Low-Aspect-Ratio Isolator

A highly confined shock train is investigated in a direct-connect isolator facility with a Mach 2 inflow and a constant-area low-aspect-ratio rectangular test section. High-speed schlieren imaging, wall static pressure measurements, surface oil-flow visualization, and particle image velocimetry from this isolator are synthesized into a three-dimensional schematic of the shock train structure. Against this, the prevailing pseudoshock models in the literature are assessed to evaluate the validity of their underlying assumptions. None of the prevailing pseudoshock models are found to simultaneously model the pressure and Mach number profiles, indicating a gap in the model formation and underlying assumptions when applied to the experimental isolator of interest. The presence of distortion in the isolator flowfield, such as a wall-bounded vortex, is found to skew the structure of the shock train, altering the strength and distribution of the compressive pressure gradient. It is further observed that the separated flow morphology surrounding the shock train is not monolithic, as is typically assumed, adjusting the balance of compressive forces within the shock cells. These findings lead to the conclusion that existing flux-conserved modeling approaches require modification to be effective in distorted and highly confined cases, including closure models that capture the three-dimensional distorted structure of the approach flow and its evolution along the shock train.

Shock Train↗

Simplified Free-Flight Testing in a Conventional Wind Tunnel

In order to incorporate the advantages of ballistic range testing with the convenience of wind tunnel testing, simplified techniques have been developed at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) for free-flight testing of models in a conventional wind tunnel. So far, only a small number of the many possibilities have been investigated, but the preliminary results indicate that such techniques are both practical and useful. The model to be investigated is suspended on a single traverse wire at the upstream end of the test section window, then is released from this position by causing the wire to break within the model. High speed motion pictures taken of the model oscillating during its travel across the viewing area make it possible to determine various aerodynamic parameters such as drag, lift, pitching moment, and pitch damping in much the same manner as is done in ballistic range testing. Also, a spark schlieren photograph can be taken of the model in flight in order to observe details of an undisturbed (from support interference) wake.

FREE FLIGHT↗

Investigation of Control Effectiveness and Stability Characteristics of a Model of a Low-Wing Missile with Interdigitated Tail Surfaces at Mach Numbers of 2.29, 2.97, and 3.51

A brief investigation of the longitudinal stability and control effectiveness at supersonic speeds of a model of a low-wing missile with interdigitated tail surfaces was made in the Langley Unitary Plan wind tunnel. The data were obtained at Mach numbers M of 2.29, 2.97, and 3.51 for Reynolds number (based on the mean geometric chord of the wing) of 1.15 x 10(exp 6), 1.14 x 10(exp 6), and 1.11 x 10(exp 6), respectively. Data were obtained for three settings of the longitudinal control surfaces: with deflection of all surfaces, with deflection of the lower surfaces only, and with all surfaces undeflected. Directional stability data were obtained at M=3.51 for angles of attack of approximately 0 deg and 10 deg. These data, with summary data and typical schlieren photographs, are presented with only a brief analysis. The data indicate that the controls are effective throughout the Mach number range and lift-coefficient range (CL = -0.15 to 0.7, approximately) of the tests. There is a severe break in the pitching-moment curve at M=2.29 which might result in a pitch-up condition in flight, and also a large forward movement of the aerodynamic center with increasing Mach number that produces neutral longitudinal stability at M=3.51 for the moment center used in this investigation. The model was directionally unstable at M=3.51; however, the level of directional stability was about the same for 0 deg and 10 deg angles of attack.

STABILITY AND CONTROL↗

Low density visualization

Comparison of schlieren and phase contrast methods for visualization of aerodynamic flow at hypersonic velocities

Veret, C.↗

Optical probing of supersonic aerodynamic turbulence

Laser quasi-schlieren system and laser shadow-correlation system retrieve flow-related signals sufficient for computing accurate, reproducible correlation peaks. Statistical method for obtaining one-shot measurements of the decay history of turbulent structures in a stationary frame of reference is discussed.

Cikanek, H. A., Jr.↗

Optics at Langley Research Center

Optical tools in aeronautical and space research at Langley Research Center, discussing schlieren photography of aeronautical and space models in wind tunnels

Crumbly, K. H.↗