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At least 271 records · Page 15

Space station propulsion technology: Space station propulsion system test bed test plan

Testing of the hydrogen/oxygen Space Station Propulsion System will demonstrate the technology readiness for the IOC application. To facilitate early demonstration of this technology and to allow demonstration of maturing technology, this testing will be performed with the components installed on a test bed which simulated the Space Station Structure. The test plan contains a description of the test bed, test objective, instrumentation plan, and controls plan. Each of these is discussed in detail.

Briley, G. L.↗

Configuration Effects on Acoustic Performance of a Duct Liner

Continued success in aircraft engine noise reduction necessitates ever more complete understanding of the effect that flow path geometry has on sound propagation in the engine. The Curved Duct Test Rig (CDTR) has been developed at NASA Langley Research Center to investigate sound propagation through a duct of comparable size (approximately the gap of GE90) and physical characteristics to the aft bypass duct of typical aircraft engines. The liner test section is designed to mimic the outer/inner walls of an engine exhaust bypass duct that has been unrolled circumferentially. Experiments to investigate the effect of curvature along the flow path on the acoustic performance of a test liner are performed in the CDTR and reported in this paper. Flow paths investigated include both straight and curved with offsets from the inlet to the discharge plane of and 1 duct width, respectively. The test liners are installed on the side walls of the liner test section. The liner samples are perforate over honeycomb core, which design is typical of liners installed in aircraft nacelles. In addition to fully treated side walls, combinations of treated and acoustically rigid walls are investigated. While curvature in the hard wall duct is found not to reduce the incident sound significantly, it does cause mode scattering. It is found that asymmetry of liner treatment causes scattering of the incident mode into less attenuated modes, which degrades the overall liner attenuation. It is also found that symmetry of liner treatment enhances liner performance by eliminating scattering into less attenuated modes. Comparisons of measured liner attenuation with numerical results predicted by an analytic model based on the parabolic approximation (CDUCT-LaRC) have also been made and are reported in this paper. The effect of curvature in the rigid wall configuration estimated by CDUCT-LaRC is similar to the observed results, and the mode scattering seen in the measurements also occurs in the analytic model results. The analytic model and experiment show similar differences of overall attenuation between one wall treated and both walls treated.

Gerhold, Carl H.↗

Effect of crossflow velocity on VTOL lift fan blade passing frequency noise generation

Analysis of noise measurements taken during tests of a remote lift fan wing installation, a V/STOL model transport with both lift and lift/cruise fans, and XV5B research aircraft flight tests has indicated a definite increase in pure tone sound pressure level due to crossflow over the face of the life fans. The fan-in-wing and V/STOL model transport tests were conducted in the NASA Ames 40 ft. by 80 ft. wing tunnel and the XV5B flight tests at Moffett Field. Increases up to 10 db were observed for the lift fan installation tested at crossflow to fan tip velocity ratios up to 0.25. Cruise fan noise levels were found to be unaffected by the external flow. The noise level increase was shown to be related to an increase in fan distortion levels.

Stimpert, D. L.↗

Flight test results of an active flutter suppression system installed on a remotely piloted research vehicle

Flight flutter test results of the first aeroelastic research wing of NASA's Drones for Aerodynamic and Structural Testing (DAST) program are presented. The implementation of the flutter suppression system and the flight test operation are described. The conduct of the flutter testing and the near-real time damping estimation algorithm are also described in detail. Flight data was obtained at Mach numbers up to 0.91 and was of high quality. Response to fast frequency sweep excitation provided reliable damping estimates and the open-loop flutter boundary was well defined. Evidence of angle-of-attack effects upon damping at high transonic Mach numbers is also presented. While the flutter suppression system provided augmented damping at speeds below the flutter boundary, an error in the implementation of the system gain caused the system to be less stable than predicted and the vehicle encountered system-on flutter on the third flight.

Edwards, J. W.↗

Data Acquisition and Control Systems Laboratory

The Data Acquisition and Control Systems (DACS) Laboratory is a facility at Stennis Space Center that provides an off test-stand capability to develop data-acquisition and control systems for rocket-engine test stands. It is also used to train new employees in state-of-the-art systems, and provides a controlled environment for troubleshooting existing systems, as well as the ability to evaluate the application of new technologies and process improvements. With the SSC propulsion testing schedules, without the DACS Laboratory, it would have been necessary to perform most of the development work on actual test systems, thereby subjecting both the rocket-engine testing and development programs to substantial interference in the form of delays, restrictions on modifications of equipment, and potentially compromising software configuration control. The DACS Laboratory contains a versatile assortment of computer hardware and software, digital and analog electronic control and data-acquisition equipment, and standard electronic bench test equipment and tools. Recently completed Control System development and software verification projects include support to the joint NASA/Air Force Integrated Powerhead Demonstration (IPD) LOX & LH2 PreBurner and Turbopump ground testing programs. In other recent activities, the DACS Laboratory equipment and expertise have supported the off-stand operation of high-pressure control valves to correct valve leak problems prior to installation on the test stand. Future plans include expanding the Laboratory's capabilities to provide cryogenic control valve characterization prior to installation, thereby reducing test stand activation time.

Holland, Randy↗

Hardware and operating features of the adaptive wall test section for the 0.3-meter transonic cryogenic tunnel

A 13- by 13-inch adaptive wall test section was installed in the Langley 0.3-Meter Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel circuit. This test section has four solid walls and is configured for two-dimensional airfoil testing. The top and bottom walls are flexible and movable, whereas the sidwalls are rigid and fixed. The test section has a turntable to support airfoil models, a survey mechanism to probe the model wake, and provisions for a sidewall boundary-layer-control system. Details of the adaptive wall test section, the tunnel circuit modifications, the supporting instrumentation, the monitoring and control hardware, and the wall adaptation strategy are discussed. Sample results of shakedown tests with the test section empty and with an airfoil installed are also included.

Mineck, Raymond E.↗

Faired instrumentation for aerodynamic tests

Streamlined package is installed and removed without altering aerodynamic properties of structure being tested. Method uses lightweight materials so that blade balance is maintained.

Long, W. C.↗

Analysis of results from wind tunnel tests of inlets for an advanced turboprop nacelle installation

Inlets for tractor installations of advanced turboprop propulsion systems were tested in three phases, covering a period from November, 1982 to January, 1984. Nacelle inlet configuration types included single scoop, twin scoop, and annular arrangements. Tests were performed with and without boundary layer diverters and several different diverter heights were tested for the single scoop inlet. This same inlet was also tested at two different axial positions. Test Mach numbers ranged from Mach 0.20 to 0.80. Types of data taken were: (1) internal and external pressures, including inlet throat recoveries; (2) balance forces, including thrust-minus-drag; and (3) propellar blade stresses.

Hancock, J. P.↗

Free-Spinning-Tunnel Investigation of a 1/28-Scale Model of the North American FJ-4 Airplane with External Fuel Tanks, TED No. NACA AD 3112

A supplementary investigation to determine the effect of external fuel tanks on the spin and recovery characteristics of a l/28-scale model of the North American FJ-4 airplane has been conducted in the Langley 20-foot free-spinning tunnel. The model had been extensively tested previously (NACA Research Memorandum SL38A29) and therefore only brief tests were made to evaluate the effect of tank installation. Erect spin tests of the model indicate that flat-type spins-are more prevalent with 200-gallon external fuel tanks than with tanks not installed. The recovery technique determined for spins without tanks, rudder reversal to full against the spin accompanied by simultaneous movement of ailerons to full with the spin, is recommended for spins encountered with external tanks installed. If inverted spins are encountered with external tanks installed, the tanks should be jettisoned and recovery attempted by rudder reversal to full against the spin with ailerons maintained at neutral.

Healy, Frederick M.↗

NASA refan program status

The objective of the refan program is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of substantially reducing the noise levels of existing JT8D powered aircraft. The program consists of the design, manufacturing and testing of the refan engines and modified nacelles and airplanes. Experimental testing was completed for the refan engine both at sea level and at altitude conditions. Ground testing for the B727 side- and center-engine installations and flight testing of the DC-9 with refan engines and acoustic nacelles were performed. Preliminary results presented show that substantial noise reductions were achieved.

Abdalla, K. L.↗

NASA refan program status

The objective of the refan program is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of substantially reducing the noise levels of existing JT8D powered aircraft. The program consists of the design, manufacturing and testing of the refan engines and modified nacelles and airplanes. Experimental testing has been completed for the refan engine both at sea level and at altitude conditions. Ground testing for the B727 side- and center-engine installations and flight testing of the DC-9 with refan engines and acoustic nacelles have been performed. Analyses of the test results are in progress. Preliminary results presented in this paper show that substantial noise reductions were achieved.

Abdalla, K. L.↗

Fiber optic sensors for measuring angular position and rotational speed

Two optical sensors, a 360 deg rotary encoder and a tachometer, were built for operation with the light source and detectors located remotely from the sensors. The source and detectors were coupled to the passive sensing heads through 3.65 meter fiber optic cables. The rotary encoder and tachometer were subjected to limited environmental testing. They were installed on an air breathing engine during recent altitude tests. Over 100 hours of engine operation were accumulated without any failure of either device.

Baumbick, R. J.↗

Installation and checkout of the DOE/NASA Mod-1 2000-kW wind turbine generator

The paper describes the DOE/NASA Mod-1 wind turbine generator, its assembly and testing, and its installation at Boone, North Carolina. The paper concludes with performance data taken during the initial tests conducted on the machine. The successful installation and initial operation of the Mod-1 wind turbine generator has had the following results: (1) megawatt-size wind turbines can be operated satisfactorily on utility grids; (2) the structural loads can be predicted by existing codes; (3) assembly of the machine on top of the tower presents no major problem; (4) large blades 100 ft long can be transported long distances and over mountain roads; and (5) operating experience and performance data will contribute substantially to the design of future low-cost wind turbines.

Puthoff, R. L.↗

Aerodynamic Tests of a Full-scale TBF-1 Aileron Installation in the Langley 16-foot High-Speed Tunnel

The failure of wing panels on a number of TBF-1 and TBM-1 airplanes in flight has prompted several investigations of the possible causes of failure. This report describes tests in the Langley 16-foot high-speed tunnel to determine whether these failures could be attributed to changes in the aerodynamic characteristics of the ailerons at high speeds. The tests were made of a 12-foot-span section including the tip and aileron of the right wing of a TBF-1 airplane. Hinge moments, control-link stresses due to aerodynamic buffeting, and fabric-deflection photographs were obtained at true airspeeds ranging from 110 to 365 miles per hour. The aileron hinge-moment coefficients were found to vary only slightly with airspeed in spite of the large fabric deflections that developed as the speed was increased. An analysis of these results indicated that the resultant hinge moment of the ailerons as installed in the airplane would tend to restore the ailerons to their neutral position for all the high-speed flight conditions covered in the tests. Serious aerodynamic buffeting occurred at up aileron angles of -10 degrees or greater because of stalling of the sharp projecting lip of the Frise aileron. The peak stresses set up in the aileron control linkages in the buffeting condition were as high as three times the mean stress. During the hinge-moment investigation, flutter of the test installation occurred at airspeeds of about 150 miles per hour. This flutter condition was investigated in some detail and slow-motion pictures were made of the motion of the wing tip and aileron. The flutter was found to involve simultaneous normal bending and chordwise oscillation of the wing and flapping of the aileron. The aileron motion appeared to be coupled with this flutter condition and was investigated in some detail and slow-motion pictures were made of the motion of the wing tip and aileron. The flutter was found to involve simultaneous normal bending and chordwise oscillation of the wing and flapping of the aileron. The aileron motion appeared to be coupled with the motion of the wing through the mass unbalance of the aileron in the normal-to-chord plane due to location of the hinge line 2.17 inches below the center of gravity of the aileron. Flutter did not occur when the installation was stiffened to prevent chordwise motion or when the bending frequency of the aileron system was appreciably higher than that of the wing as in the complete airplane installation.

Becker, John V↗

YF 102 in-duct combustor noise measurements with a turbine nozzle, volume 1

The internal noise generated by an Avco Lycoming YF-102 engine combustor installed in a test rig was recorded. Two configurations were tested one with and one without the first stage turbine nozzle installed. Acoustic probes and accessories were used. Internal dynamic pressure level measurements were made at ten locations within the combustor. The combustor rig, the test procedures, and data acquisition and reduction systems are described. Tables and plots of narrow band and one third octave band pressure level spectra are included.

Wilson, C. A.↗

A flight test of laminar flow control leading-edge systems

NASA's program for development of a laminar flow technology base for application to commercial transports has made significant progress since its inception in 1976. Current efforts are focused on development of practical reliable systems for the leading-edge region where the most difficult problems in applying laminar flow exist. Practical solutions to these problems will remove many concerns about the ultimate practicality of laminar flow. To address these issues, two contractors performed studies, conducted development tests, and designed and fabricated fully functional leading-edge test articles for installation on the NASA JetStar aircraft. Systems evaluation and performance testing will be conducted to thoroughly evaluate all system capabilities and characteristics. A simulated airline service flight test program will be performed to obtain the operational sensitivity, maintenance, and reliability data needed to establish that practical solutions exist for the difficult leading-edge area of a future commercial transport employing laminar flow control.

Fischer, M. C.↗

A flight test of laminar flow control leading-edge systems

NASA's program for development of a laminar flow technology base for application to commercial transports has made significant progress since its inception in 1976. Current efforts are focused on development of practical reliable systems for the leading-edge region where the most difficult problems in applying laminar flow exist. Practical solutions to these problems will remove many concerns about the ultimate practicality of laminar flow. To address these issues, two contractors performed studies, conducted development tests, and designed and fabricated fully functional leading-edge test articles for installation on the NASA JetStar aircraft. Systems evaluation and performance testing will be conducted to thoroughly evaluate all system capabilities and characteristics. A simulated airline service flight test program will be performed to obtain the operational sensitivity, maintenance, and reliability data needed to establish that practical solutions exist for the difficult leading-edge area of a future commercial transport employing laminar flow control.

Fischer, M. C.↗

Development of a high-efficiency motor/generator for flywheel energy storage

This study addresses the design changes and extensions necessary to construct and test a working prototype of a motor/generator for a magnetically suspended flywheel energy storage system. The brushless motor controller for the motor was specified and the electronic commutation arrangement designed. The laminations were redesigned and fabricated using laser machining. Flux density measurements were made and the results used to redesign the armature windings. A test rig was designed and built, and the motor/generator was installed and speed tested to 9000 rpm. Experimental methods of obtaining the machine voltage and torque constants Kv and Kt, obtaining the useful air-gap flux density, and characterizing the motor and other system components are described. The measured Kv and Kt were approximately 40 percent greater than predicted by theory and initial experiment.

Lashley, Christopher↗