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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 631 records · Page 35

X-48B Flight Test Progress Overview

The results of a series of 39 flight tests of the X-48B Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) performed at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center from July 2007 through December 2008 are reported here. The goal of these tests is to evaluate the aerodynamic and controls and dynamics performance of the subscale LSV aircraft, eventually leading to the development of a control system for a full-scale vehicle. The X-48B LSV is an 8.5%-scale aircraft of a potential, full-scale Blended Wing Body (BWB) type aircraft and is flown remotely from a ground control station using a computerized flight control system located onboard the aircraft. The flight tests were the first two phases of a planned three-phase research program aimed at ascertaining the flying characteristics of this type of aircraft. The two test phases reported here are: 1) envelope expansion, during which the basic flying characteristics of the airplane were examined, and 2) parameter identification, stalls, and engine-out testing, during which further information on the aircraft performance was obtained and the airplane was tested to the limits of controlled flight. The third phase, departure limiter assaults, has yet to be performed. Flight tests in two different wing leading edge configurations (slats extended and slats retracted) as well as three weight and three center of gravity positions were conducted during each phase. Data gathered in the test program included measured airplane performance parameters such as speed, acceleration, and control surface deflections along with qualitative flying evaluations obtained from pilot and crew observations. Flight tests performed to-date indicate the aircraft exhibits good handling qualities and performance, consistent with pre-flight simulations.

Risch, Timoth K.↗

Mars Aeolian Wind Tunnel Test Stand Group #20

The exploration of Mars has long been a theme in science fiction entertainment. However, with successful NASA Mars rover missions such as Curiosity and Opportunity, this fiction has become a reality. As NASA prepares additional rovers to explore the Red Planet, the agency is looking for ways to make exploration more efficient. One solution is to use a small, lightweight, co-axial rotor helicopter to scout geographical conditions on the Martian surface. This type of flight is unprecedented, as no vehicle has flown in the Martian atmosphere. With that said, extensive experimentation is needed to develop such a vehicle. Initial testing has been completed on what has been dubbed the Mars Scout Helicopter (MSH), and the next phase of testing will include wind tunnel testing of the rotor in forward flight in a reduced pressure environment, simulating the atmosphere of Mars.

Mars Aeolian↗

Establishing Standardized Test Methods for Evaluating Space Suit Gloves

The Artemis space suit glove environmental protection garment (EPG) will be the first line of protection used to protect the crewmember’s hands from the environments encountered during extravehicular activity (EVA). As the Artemis missions will include more extreme environments, it is necessary to define tests to evaluate if gloves can meet new, challenging requirements. The NASA Engineering and Safety Center (NESC)has funded an effort with the goal to help vendors to produce a space suit glove that is sufficiently durable to meet the needs of the Artemis missions. Three problems were identified in meeting that goal. First, there are no standardized tests defined to evaluate the durability of space suit gloves for the extreme lunar environments. Second, there is insufficient data on glove performance in a lunar environment from which to compare new designs. And third, current ISS glove TMG fabrics are unlikely to be sufficient to meet Lunar requirements. Four tasks were established to answer different aspects of these three problems. Task 1 focused on the characterization of potential glove fabrics using ASTM standardized test methods when possible. When one did not exist, new standardized test procedures were devised. Task 2 focused on developing a procedure for characterizing the thermal performance of a glove assembly. Task 3 focused on devising a standard procedure for characterizing the dust/abrasion resistance of a space suit glove. Task 4 focused on devising a standard procedure for characterizing the cut resistance of a space suit glove while at cryogenic temperatures. The new procedures created in Tasks 2, 3 and 4 were then validated by testing the Phase VI glove to collect baseline data. This paper will summarize the approach used to establish standardized test methods for each task and will expound on the ASTM process to publish the new standards.

spacesuit↗

Results of a M = 5.3 heat transfer test of the integrated vehicle using phase-change paint techniques on the 0.0175-scale model 56-OTS in the NASA/Ames Research Center 3.5-foot hypersonic wind tunnel

An experimental investigation was performed in the NASA/Ames Research Center 3.5-foot Hypersonic Wind Tunnel to obtain supersonic heat-distribution data in areas between the orbiter and external tank using phase-change paint techniques. The tests used Novamide SSV Model 56-OTS in the first and second-stage ascent configurations. Data were obtained at a nominal Mach number of 5.3 and a Reynolds number per foot of 5 x 10 to the 6th power with angles of attack of 0 deg, +/- 5 deg, and sideslip angles of 0 deg and +/- 5 deg.

Marroquin, J.↗

Melter Tests to Define LAW Halide Concentrations, Phase 2

The present work represents the second of two phases to address the formation of secondary sulfate phases while processing high waste loading LAW formulations with elevated halide, chromium, and phosphate feed concentrations over a wide range of LAW waste types, including those with high potassium concentrations. The Test Plan for the present work outlines a series of tests designed to assess the formation of secondary phases over a range of sulfur and halide concentrations for two LAW streams and associated glass formulations as well as crucible testing to identify additives that have the potential to suppress the formation of secondary phases for wastes with high chlorine contents. The combined results from both phases of testing and from previous tests with these LAW waste streams will be used as inputs to future work to develop concentration limits for these components in the LAW glass property composition models and to support the modification and updating of the current WTP LAW glass formulation algorithm.

12 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE AND NON-RADIOACTIVE W↗

External Payload Carrier (XPC) A Suborbital Research Platform

This slide presentation details the concept of an External Payload Carrier (XPC), that can fly on ann unused Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) location on the Atlas V rocket to suborbital environment. The XPC can be used anytime there is sufficient excess lift capability available. The dimensions and possible uses of the XPC are reviewed. The completed Phase 1 study reviewed 57 variations, and arrived at three viable configurations, identified design baselines, subsystems and preliminary testing requirements. Phase II effort is planned to produce the preliminary design (i.e., PDR level), Systems Requirements Document (SRD), identify flight candidates, develop schedule and funding profiles, and identify the risk-reduction activities.

Schallhorn, Paul↗

Isothermal and bithermal thermomechanical fatigue behavior of a NiCoCrAlY-coated single crystal superalloy

Specimens of single crystal PWA 1480 with group of zone axes (100) orientation, bare, or with NiCoCrAlY coating PWA 276, were tested in low cycle fatigue (LCF) at 650, 870, and 1050 C, and in simplified bithermal thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) tests between these temperatures. These tests were examined as a bridge between isothermal LCF and general TMF. In the bithermal test, an inelastic strain is applied at one temperature, T sub max, and reversed at T sub min. The out-of-phase (OP) test type imposing tension at T sub min and compression at T sub max received most study, since it was more damaging than the in-phase type. Specifically investigated were the effects of: inelastic strain range, the coating, delta T, T sub max, T sub min, and the environment.

Gayda, J.↗

Isothermal and 'bithermal' thermomechanical fatigue behavior of a NiCoCrAlY-coated single crystal superalloy

Specimens of single crystal PWA 1480 with group of zone axes (100) orientation, bare, or with NiCoCrAlY coating PWA 276, were tested in low cycle fatigue (LCF) at 650, 870, and 1050 C, and in simplified bithermal thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) tests between these temperatures. These tests were examined as a bridge between isothermal LCF and general TMF. In the bithermal test, and inelastic strain is applied at one temperature, T sub max, and reversed at T sub min. The out-of-phase (OP) test type imposing tension at T sub min and compression at T sub max received most study, since it was more damaging than the in-phase type. Specifically investigated were the effects of: inelastic strain range, the coating, delta T, T sub max, T sub min, and the environment.

Gayda, J.↗

An Axial-Torsional, Thermomechanical Fatigue Testing Technique

A technique for conducting strain-controlled, thermomechanical, axial-torsional fatigue tests on thin-walled tubular specimens was developed. Three waveforms of loading, namely, the axial strain waveform, the engineering shear strain waveform, and the temperature waveform were required in these tests. The phasing relationships between the mechanical strain waveforms and the temperature and axial strain waveforms were used to define a set of four axial-torsional, thermomechanical fatigue (AT-TMF) tests. Real-time test control (3 channels) and data acquisition (a minimum of 7 channels) were performed with a software program written in C language and executed on a personal computer. The AT-TMF testing technique was used to investigate the axial-torsional thermomechanical fatigue behavior of a cobalt-base superalloy, Haynes 188. The maximum and minimum temperatures selected for the AT-TMF tests were 760 and 316 C, respectively. Details of the testing system, calibration of the dynamic temperature profile of the thin-walled tubular specimen, thermal strain compensation technique, and test control and data acquisition schemes, are reported. The isothermal, axial, torsional, and in- and out-of-phase axial-torsional fatigue behaviors of Haynes 188 at 316 and 760 C were characterized in previous investigations. The cyclic deformation and fatigue behaviors of Haynes 188 in AT-TMF tests are compared to the previously reported isothermal axial-torsional behavior of this superalloy at the maximum and minimum temperatures.

Kalluri, Sreeramesh↗

Development and test results of a two-phase reservoir for thermal transport systems used in micro-gravity

This paper describes the development and testing of a two-phase fluid reservoir for use in advanced thermal control systems designed for space applications. The aim of this development is to construct a highly reliable reservoir with the capability of controlling the saturation temperature of the system working fluid. The design considerations are described along with the methods of achieving the operational requirements. In addition, results from the initial testing of the prototype are presented.

Schweickart, Russell B.↗

X-29 Flight Test Program including wind tunnel and computational support

A cooperative effort has been defined between NASA-Ames/Dryden Flight Research Facility and NASA-Langley Research Center in support of the X-29A Advanced Technology Demonstrator. The effort involves three phases: flight testing, wind-tunnel testing in the National Transonic Facility, and computational support of each experimental phase. These efforts are primarily aimed at understanding the complex flow phenomena and component interactions associated with the X-29A. Each phase of the effort is discussed in detail and initial data comparisons are presented. In summary, the synergistics effects of the complementary phases are identified, which will enhance the understanding of the unique aerodynamics of the X-29A.

Waggoner, E. G.↗

Test results of a pumped two-phase mounting plate with ammonia

The design, fabrication, and testing of full-scale prototype units of a two-phase mounting plate (TPMP), which will be used in a two-phase ammonia-based thermal control system for a large spacecraft, are described. The mounting plate uses an evaporator design in which liquid is mechanically pumped through porous feed tubes within the plate. The prototype TPMPs were tested with ammonia at heat loads over 3000 W (3.2 W/sq cm) and local heat fluxes of up to 4 W/sq cm. Calculated total heat transfer coefficients from these tests were between 0.8 and 1.0 W/sq cm per C. This represents a better than twenty-fold improvement over comparable single-phase heat transfer coefficients. Design diagrams are included.

Swanson, T. D.↗

High temperature fatigue behavior of Haynes 188

The high temperature, creep-fatigue behavior of Haynes 188 was investigated as an element in a broader thermomechanical fatigue life prediction model development program at the NASA-Lewis. The models are still in the development stage, but the data that were generated possess intrinsic value on their own. Results generated to date is reported. Data were generated to characterize isothermal low cycle fatigue resistance at temperatures of 316, 704, and 927 C with cyclic failure lives ranging from 10 to more than 20,000. These results follow trends that would be predicted from a knowledge of tensile properties, i.e., as the tensile ductility varies with temperature, so varies the cyclic inelastic straining capacity. Likewise, as the tensile strength decreases, so does the high cyclic fatigue resistance. A few two-minute hold-time cycles at peak compressive strain were included in tests at 760 C. These results were obtained in support of a redesign effort for the Orbital Maneuverable System engine. No detrimental effects on cyclic life were noted despite the added exposure time for creep and oxidation. Finally, a series of simulated thermal fatigue tests, referred to as bithermal fatigue tests, were conducted using 316 C as the minimum and 760 C as the maximum temperature. Only out-of-phase bithermal tests were conducted to date. These test results are intended for use as input to a more general thermomechanical fatigue life prediction model based on the concepts of the total strain version of Strainrange Partitioning.

Halford, Gary R.↗

Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment: Flow Boiling in a Rectangular Channel with Subcooled Inlet Conditions in Microgravity

Two-phase thermal management subsystems that take advantage of both the sensible and latent heat of a working fluid can potentially yield significant enhancements in overall performance by adopting heat transfer processes that are based on phase transition like boiling and condensation. Performance of terrestrial two-phase flow systems may be predictable because the hydrodynamic and body forces are understood, however, in microgravity, which is predominant during planetary space travel, forces that are masked by the strong body force on Earth (gravitational or buoyancy force) reappear with different magnitude and influence. The need arose for a facility that provides for two-phase flow with phase transition testing in microgravity. The Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment (FBCE) is a facility that was launched to the International Space Station in August of 2021 and is in operation since February of 2022. This facility enables investigators to perform two-phase flow and phase transition research in flow boiling and condensation. Along with the test module that is experiment specific, the FBCE system consists of the fluid, avionics, and software subsystems. Currently two test modules, namely, the Flow Boiling Module (FBM) and the Condensation Module for Heat Transfer (CM-HT) are available. A third module, the Transfer Line test Module (TL) is being developed. The fluid subsystem conditions and delivers the fluid at the desired thermodynamic state to the test module. It consists of two fluid modules and a heater module that are connected by flex hoses for fluid circulation and by data and electrical cables for control and data acquisition. Two avionics modules acquire pressure and temperature data from various sensors in the flow loop. For FBM, a high-speed camera is available to acquire images of the boiling process. Experiments are operated autonomously by software and are based on an Experiment Parameters Master Table (EPMT) that is uploaded to ISS and is executed by the FBCE flight software. This presentation briefly introduces the objectives of FBCE and provides a system description of the experiment onboard of the ISS/Fluid Integrated Rack (FIR). Results of the test campaign carried out using the FBM are presented. Specifically, microgravity flow boiling of n-perfluorohexane (test fluid) is discussed with subcooled inlet conditions in a single-side-heated rectangular channel of dimensions 114.6-mm heated length, 2.5-mm heated width, and 5.0-mm height. Key operating parameters investigated are mass velocity (199.90 – 3200.13 kg/m2s), inlet subcooling (0.10 – 45.76°C), and inlet pressure (113.30 – 164.29 kPa). Image sequences acquired via high-speed-video are shown to elucidate the interfacial flow physics. The effects of various parameters on flow boiling heat transfer in microgravity, from the onset of boiling to the critical heat flux are discussed. Heat transfer results are presented in terms of flow boiling curves, streamwise profiles of wall temperature and heat transfer coefficient, and parametric trends of local and averaged heat transfer coefficient, and the critical heat flux.

Two-phase flow and phase transition↗

A Heat Transfer Investigation of Liquid and Two-Phase Methane

A heat transfer investigation was conducted for liquid and two-phase methane. The tests were conducted at the NASA Glenn Research Center Heated Tube Facility (HTF) using resistively heated tube sections to simulate conditions encountered in regeneratively cooled rocket engines. This testing is part of NASA s Propulsion and Cryogenics Advanced Development (PCAD) project. Nontoxic propellants, such as liquid oxygen/liquid methane (LO2/LCH4), offer potential benefits in both performance and safety over equivalently sized hypergolic propulsion systems in spacecraft applications. Regeneratively cooled thrust chambers are one solution for high performance, robust LO2/LCH4 engines, but cooling data on methane is limited. Several test runs were conducted using three different diameter Inconel 600 tubes, with nominal inner diameters of 0.0225-, 0.054-, and 0.075-in. The mass flow rate was varied from 0.005 to 0.07 lbm/sec. As the current focus of the PCAD project is on pressure fed engines for LO2/LCH4, the average test section outlet pressures were targeted to be 200 psia or 500 psia. The heat flux was incrementally increased for each test condition while the test section wall temperatures were monitored. A maximum average heat flux of 6.2 Btu/in.2 sec was achieved and, at times, the temperatures of the test sections reached in excess of 1800 R. The primary objective of the tests was to produce heat transfer correlations for methane in the liquid and two-phase regime. For two-phase flow testing, the critical heat flux values were determined where the fluid transitions from nucleate boiling to film boiling. A secondary goal of the testing was to measure system pressure drops in the two-phase regime.

VanNoord, Jonathan↗

Investigation of Drag and Static Longitudinal and Lateral Stability and Control Characteristics of 1/20-Scale Model of McDonnell F4H-1 Airplane at Mach Numbers of 1.57, 1.87, 2.16, and 2.53. Phase II Model

Tests were performed in the Langley Unitary Plan wind tunnel to determine the drag and static longitudinal and lateral stability and control characteristics of a 1/20-scale model of the McDonnell F4H-1 airplane at Mach numbers of 1 57, 1 87, 2.16, and 2.53. This is the second phase in a series of tests performed on this model. The Reynolds numbers for these tests, based on the mean aerodynamic chord of the wing, are 1.446 x 10 (exp 6), 1.269 x 10 (exp 6), 1.116 x 10 (exp 6), and 0.714 x 10 (exp 6) at Mach numbers of 1.57, 1.87, 2.16, and 2.53, respectively. The model had a 12 deg. wing tip dihedral, a larger vertical tail, and a modified duct.

Carmel, Melvin M.↗

Quarter Scale RLV Multi-Lobe LH2 Tank Test Program

Thirty cryogenic pressure cycles have been completed on the Lockheed Martin Michoud Space Systems quarter scale RLV composite multi-lobe liquid hydrogen propellant tank assembly, completing the initial phases of testing and demonstrating technologies key to the success of large scale composite cryogenic tankage for X33, RLV, and other future launch vehicles.

Blum, Celia↗

Test results on reuse of reclaimed shower water - A summary

Results are presented from tests to evaluate a microgravity whole body shower and waste water recovery system design for possible use on the Space Station. Several water recovery methods were tested, including phase change distillation, a thermoelectric hollow fiber membrane evaporation subsystem, and a reverse osmosis dynamic membrane system. Consideration is given to the test hardware, the types of soaps evaluated, the human response to showering with reclaimed water, chemical treatment for microbial control, the procedures for providing hygienic water, and the quality of water produced by the systems. All three of the waste water recovery systems tested successfully produced reclaimed water for reuse.

Verostko, Charles E.↗