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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 37 records · Page 2

Design and evaluation of single and dual flow thrust vector nozzles with post exit vanes

This Thrust Vectored Research project required that a 1/24 scale model of the F/A-18 High Alpha Research Vehicle, (HARV), propulsion system be constructed on the university campus. This propulsion system was designed for cold flow testing on a multicomponent test rig. Forces and moments were measured to study nozzle performance parameters. The flow visualization technique of color Schlieren photography was performed to investigate the flow phenomena at the nozzle exit. The flow interactions that were identified consisted of vane nozzleing between the outer and lower vanes and vane tip interference. The thrust vectoring system consisted of three asymmetrically spaced vanes installed circumferentially on a maximum afterburner nozzle. The performance of the nozzle was investigated with the outer and lower vanes equally deflected, (-10 deg is less than delta(sub v) is less than 25 deg), and with the upper vane fully retracted, (delta(sub v) equals -10 deg). The nozzle pressure ratio ranged from 4 to 6. The results indicated that a vane nozzleing effect developed at nozzle pressure ratios of 4 and 6 when the outer and lower vanes were deflected far enough into the flow field such that the increase in vane area accelerated the flow past the vanes causing distorted shock waves. This accelerated flow was a result of a pressure differential existing between the inside surface of the vane and the ambient pressure. The stagnation pressure that developed along the inside surface of the vane accelerated the flow past the vanes causing it to equalize with ambient pressure, thus providing distorted shock waves. A tip interference was present at the trailing edge of the upper vane as a result of low nozzle pressure, NPR 4, with high vane deflection, delta(sub v) equals 25 degrees, and also with a high nozzle pressure, NPR 6, and low vane deflections, delta(sub v) equals 15 degrees.

Carpenter, Thomas W.↗

Developmental testing resulting in a simplified liquid oxygen check valve for the Space Shuttle Main Propulsion System

The coil spring in a Space Shuttle liquid oxygen check valve failed due to cyclic fatigue in September, 1991. The dual-flapper, swing check valve is used to prevent reverse flow to the Space Shuttle Main Engines. Upon inspection of the failed component, the spring tangs were found to be missing and heavy wear was observed on the inner diameter of the spring coils. The fracture surfaces revealed that the metal had been steadily worn away until a simple overload caused the final fracture. A series of flow tests using water and a water/gas mixture was conducted to identify the flow phenomenon which produced the cyclic wear. A Plexiglas outlet housing was utilized to view the flapper behavior under different flow conditions and to aid in high speed photography. The tests revealed that flow instabilities induced two oscillatory flapper responses: a rocking mode and a chattering mode. Initially, attempts were made to reduce the spring-flapper oscillations. However, the final solution to the problem was a springless configuration which satisfied the valve's design requirements and eliminated the oscillations. The springless design relied on the inherent ability of the reverse flow momentum to close the flappers.

Aber, Gregory S.↗

Experimental study of forward-located jet-interaction nozzles

The effects of forward-mounted sonic jet-interaction nozzles with one, three equal, or one large and two small orifices on the transitional or turbulent boundary-layer flow over a biconic (9-deg-25-arcmin/6-deg) model at angle of attack -10 to the 15 deg and Reynolds number 8.10 x 10 to the 6th/ft are investigated experimentally using pressure taps, force measurements, oil-flow visualization, and schlieren photography in the 20-in. Mach-6 wind tunel at NASA Langley. The injection flow rates are 0.055 and 0.026 lbm/s, with stagnation pressure 500 psia, stagnation temperature 1000 R, and dynamic pressure 8.7 psia. The results are presented in diagrams, graphs, and photographs and characterized. Moment amplification factors of 1.0 or better (maximum 1.8 at angle of attack 15 deg and flow rate 0.055 lbm/s) are observed for all nozzle types, but the configuration with three unequal orifices is found to give improvements of 10 percent over the single-orifice nozzle at a given flow rate.

Cavalleri, R. J.↗

Electrolysis Bubbles Make Waterflow Visible

Technique for visualization of three-dimensional flow uses tiny tracer bubbles of hydrogen and oxygen made by electrolysis of water. Strobe-light photography used to capture flow patterns, yielding permanent record that is measured to obtain velocities of particles. Used to measure simulated mixing turbulence in proposed gas-turbine combustor and also used in other water-table flow tests.

Schultz, Donald F.↗

Self-synchronizing Schlieren photography and interferometry for the visualization of unsteady transonic flows

The use of self synchronizing stroboscopic Schlieren and laser interferometer systems to obtain quantitative space time measurements of distinguished flow surfaces, steakline patterns, and the density field of two dimensional flows that exhibit a periodic content was investigated. A large field single path stroboscopic Schlieren system was designed, constructed and successfully applied to visualize four periodic flows: near wake behind an oscillating airfoil; edge tone sound generation; 2-D planar wall jet; and axisymmetric pulsed sonic jet. This visualization technique provides an effective means of studying quasi-periodic flows in real time. The image on the viewing screen is a spatial signal average of the coherent periodic motion rather than a single realization, the high speed motion of a quasi-periodic flow can be reconstructed by recording photographs of the flow at different fixed time delays in one cycle. The preliminary design and construction of a self synchronizing stroboscopic laser interferometer with a modified Mach-Zehnder optical system is also reported.

Kadlec, R.↗

Surface flow visualization of separated flows on the forebody of an F-18 aircraft and wind-tunnel model

A method of in-flight surface flow visualization similar to wind-tunnel-model oil flows is described for cases where photo-chase planes or onboard photography are not practical. This method, used on an F-18 aircraft in flight at high angles of attack, clearly showed surface flow streamlines in the fuselage forebody. Vortex separation and reattachment lines were identified with this method and documented using postflight photography. Surface flow angles measured at the 90 and 270 degrees meridians show excellent agreement with the wind tunnel data for a pointed tangent ogive with an aspect ratio of 3.5. The separation and reattachment line locations were qualitatively similar to the F-18 wind-tunnel-model oil flows but neither the laminar separation bubble nor the boundary-layer transition on the wind tunnel model were evident in the flight surface flows. The separation and reattachment line locations were in fair agreement with the wind tunnel data for the 3.5 ogive. The elliptical forebody shape of the F-18 caused the primary separation lines to move toward the leeward meridian. Little effect of angle of attack on the separation locations was noted for the range reported.

Fisher, David F.↗

Evaluation of dual flow thrust vectored nozzles with exhaust stream impingement

The main objective of this project was to predict the expansion wave/oblique shock wave structure in an under-expanded jet expanding from a convergent nozzle. The shock structure was predicted by combining the calculated curvature of the free pressure boundary with principles and governing equations relating to oblique shock wave and expansion wave interaction. The procedure was then continued until the shock pattern repeated itself. A mathematical model was then formulated and written in FORTRAN to calculate the oblique shock/expansion wave structure within the jet. In order to study shock waves in expanding jets, Schlieren photography, a form of flow visualization, was employed. Thirty-six Schlieren photographs of jets from both a straight and 15 degree nozzle were taken. An iterative procedure was developed to calculate the shock structure within the jet and predict the non-dimensional values of Prandtl primary wavelength (w/rn), distance to Mach Disc (Ld) and Mach Disc radius (rd). These values were then compared to measurements taken from Schlieren photographs and experimental results. The results agreed closely to measurements from Schlieren photographs and previously obtained data. This method provides excellent results for pressure ratios below that at which a Mach Disc first forms. Calculated values of non-dimensional distance to the Mach Disc (Ld) agreed closely to values measured from Schlieren photographs and published data. The calculated values of non-dimensional Mach Disc radius (rd), however, deviated from published data by as much as 25 percent at certain pressure ratios.

Carpenter, Thomas W.↗

A color Schlieren system

Color schlieren photographic system for analysis of complex compressible fluid flows

FLUID MECHANICS↗

Experimental investigation of shock-cell noise reduction for dual-stream nozzles in simulated flight comprehensive data report. Volume 2: Laser velocimeter data, static pressures and shadowgraph photos

Parameters which contribute to supersonic jet shock noise were investigated for the purpose of determining means to reduce such noise generation to acceptable levels. Six dual-stream test nozzles with varying flow passage and plug closure designs were evaluated under simulated flight conditions in an anechoic chamber. All nozzles had combined convergent-divergent or convergent flow passages. Mean velocity and turbulence velocity measurements of 25 selected flow conditions were performed employing a laser Doppler velocimeter. Static pressure measurements were made to define the actual convergence-divergence condition. Test point definition, tabulation of aerodynamic test conditions, velocity histograms, and shadowgraph photographs are presented. Flow visualization through shadowgraph photography can contribute to the development of an analytical prediction model for shock noise from coannular plug nozzles.

Yamamoto, K.↗

Motion of spheres in still fluids

The behavior of a liquid or gaseous medium, in which a solid body can move freely under the action of a force of constant magnitude and direction, is yet little known.

AERODYNAMICS↗

Flow Visualization in Evaporating Liquid Drops and Measurement of Dynamic Contact Angles and Spreading Rate

A new hybrid optical system, consisting of reflection-refracted shadowgraphy and top-view photography, is used to visualize flow phenomena and simultaneously measure the spreading and instant dynamic contact angle in a volatile-liquid drop on a nontransparent substrate. Thermocapillary convection in the drop, induced by evaporation, and the drop real-time profile data are synchronously recorded by video recording systems. Experimental results obtained from this unique technique clearly reveal that thermocapillary convection strongly affects the spreading process and the characteristics of dynamic contact angle of the drop. Comprehensive information of a sessile drop, including the local contact angle along the periphery, the instability of the three-phase contact line, and the deformation of the drop shape is obtained and analyzed.

Zhang, Neng-Li↗

High-Speed Schlieren Movies of the Flow About Reefed Parachute Models Towed at Supersonic Speeds Behind a Conical Body (4.875 Inches in Diameter). Drag Values Based on the Unreefed Diameter of 1.73 F. Porosity of Unreefed Parachute is 28 Percent.

Flexible parachute models reefed to one-eighth, one-fourth, one-third, and four tenths of its diameter were towed at speeds of Mach 1.80, 2.00, 2.20 and 2.87. Towline lengths tested were 23.40, 24.38, 26.81, and 29.25 inches. High-speed Schlieren movies of the flow are shown.

SCHLIEREN PHOTOGRAPHY↗

Development of a flow visualization apparatus

The use of an optical flow visualization device for studying convection flow patterns was investigated. The investigation considered use of a shadowgraph, schlieren and other means for visualizing the flow. A laboratory model was set up to provide data on the proper optics and photography procedures to best visualize the flow. A preliminary design of a flow visualization system is provided as a result of the study. Recommendations are given for a flight test program utilizing the flow visualization apparatus.

Spradley, L. W.↗

Effects of Heating Configuration and Operating Parameters on Heat Transfer and Interfacial Physics of Microgravity Flow Boiling With Subcooled Inlet Conditions –Experiments Onboard the International Space Station

This study is part of the Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment (FBCE), a collaborative effort between the Purdue University Boiling and Two-Phase Flow Laboratory (PU-BTPFL) and the NASA Glenn Research Center. The FBCE fitted with the Flow Boiling Module (FBM) was launched to the International Space Station (ISS) in August 2021 and experiments were successfully performed from February to July 2022 to amass a large microgravity-flow-boiling database. This study is focused on heat transfer and flow visualization of microgravity flow boiling of n-Perfluorohexane in a rectangular channel of 5.0 mm height, 2.5 mm width (heated), and 114.6 mm length, with subcooled inlet conditions. High-speed-video photography is utilized to present flow patterns and temporal interfacial behavior. Heat transfer results are presented in the form of flow boiling curves and both parametric curves and streamwise profiles of wall temperature and heat transfer coefficient. Firstly, the parametric effects of mass velocity (199.4 – 3200.0 kg/m 2 s), inlet subcooling (0.2 – 46.0°C), and inlet pressure (124.2 – 176.7 kPa), on the aforementioned aspects are assessed for double-sided heating to establish them for a microgravity environment. Of these three parameters, mass velocity and inlet subcooling mostly determine the microgravity flow boiling behavior, while inlet pressure plays an insignificant role. Flow patterns for double-sided heating are more complex than those for single-sided heating due to interaction between the two vapor layers. Vapor interaction is minimized at high subcoolings and high mass velocities due to strong condensation offered by the subcooled bulk liquid layer separating them. Despite the different flow patterns, both single- and double-sided heating generally result in similar parametric trends and local heat transfer coefficients for similar operating conditions. Flow instabilities manifest as temporal flow anomalies and temperature oscillations, and their severity increases with increasing boiling number. Secondly, the effects of heating configuration are analyzed by comparing and contrasting several aspects of single- and double-sided heating data. The heat fluxes at which onset of nucleate boiling degradation (ONBD) and critical heat flux (CHF) occur are distinctly different for single- and double-sided heating. There exists a threshold inlet subcooling demarcating the dominance of flow acceleration and condensation effects in vapor removal from the near-wall region and replenishment of fresh liquid for boiling. Above the threshold, condensation from the near-wall region is dominant and single-sided heating yields higher heat fluxes, and below it, acceleration is dominant and double-sided yields higher heat fluxes. At mass velocity in the range of 200 – 2400 kg/m 2 s, the threshold inlet subcooling lies in the approximate range of 20 – 30°C (corresponding inlet quality of roughly -0.40 – -0.20).

Microgravity↗

An experimental study of heat induced surface-tension driven flow

Laser Doppler anemometry, radiation thermometry, and time-lapse photography have been used to study heat induced surface-tension driven flows in silicone oil and Fluorinert FC-43 in large open containers. For silicone oil, the effect of the surface tension gradient on the velocity field was not apparent enough to be detected. Because of its high viscosity, the oil was insensitive to outside disturbances, and the flow was steady. In the case of FC-43, the fluid was noticeably influenced by outside disturbances, and the flow was unsteady. The work reported here is part of an effort to develop experimental techniques and select test fluids for future space experiments on fluid motion in materials processing.

Kamotani, Y.↗

Flow in a model of the SSME main injector bowl

Mean-flow and turbulence quantities obtained in a 32-percent acrylic model of the SSME main injector bowl are presented. Flow visualization obtained with laser sheets and conventional photography shows the basic patterns and identifies regions of recirculating flow. Measurements of mean-flow and turbulence normal stresses are obtained with laser velocimetry to confirm these results and to quantify flow characteristics in the inlet ducts, entrance region, racetrack, LOX-post bundle, and exit nozzle. Measured velocity distributions show the upstream effect of the injector bowl in the transfer ducts, the plenum effect of the racetrack and LOX-post bundle, and the nonuniform distribution of flow into the main exit nozzle.

Thompson, B. E.↗