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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 685 records · Page 38

Numerical simulation of electrophoresis separation processes

A new Petrov-Galerkin finite element formulation has been proposed for transient convection-diffusion problems. Most Petrov-Galerkin formulations take into account the spatial discretization, and the weighting functions so developed give satisfactory solutions for steady state problems. Though these schemes can be used for transient problems, there is scope for improvement. The schemes proposed here, which consider temporal as well as spatial discretization, provide improved solutions. Electrophoresis, which involves the motion of charged entities under the influence of an applied electric field, is governed by equations similiar to those encountered in fluid flow problems, i.e., transient convection-diffusion equations. Test problems are solved in electrophoresis and fluid flow. The results obtained are satisfactory. It is also expected that these schemes, suitably adapted, will improve the numerical solutions of the compressible Euler and the Navier-Stokes equations.

Ganjoo, D. K.↗

Dynamic data acquisition, reduction, and analysis for the identification of high-speed compressor component post-stability characteristics

A compressor test was conducted in which transient data were obtained for the purpose of identifying the high-speed post-stability characteristics. The transient, surge-cycle nature of high-speed post-stability operation precludes the possibility of obtaining the characteristics in a steady-state manner, as is possible during low-speed poststability operation, which is characterized by quasi-steady rotating-stall behavior. Specialized compressor instrumentation was developed and was used to obtain the necessary surge-cycle performance data, which were then digitized, filtered, and analyzed. The high-speed post-stability characteristics were obtained through the use of a maximum likelihood-parameter estimation technique. The estimated characteristics were found to be insensitive to the presence of measurement noise and unmodelled system dynamics, but the compressor time-response constants, which were also estimated, were more sensitive to these same disturbances.

Dvorak, S. D.↗

Prediction of the Thrust Performance and the Flowfield of Liquid Rocket Engines

In an effort to improve the current solutions in the design and analysis of liquid propulsive engines, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model capable of calculating the reacting flows from the combustion chamber, through the nozzle to the external plume, was developed. The Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) fired at sea level, was investigated as a sample case. The CFD model, FDNS, is a pressure based, non-staggered grid, viscous/inviscid, ideal gas/real gas, reactive code. An adaptive upwinding differencing scheme is employed for the spatial discretization. The upwind scheme is based on fourth order central differencing with fourth order damping for smooth regions, and second order central differencing with second order damping for shock capturing. It is equipped with a CHMQGM equilibrium chemistry algorithm and a PARASOL finite rate chemistry algorithm using the point implicit method. The computed flow results and performance compared well with those of other standard codes and engine hot fire test data. In addition, the transient nozzle flowfield calculation was also performed to demonstrate the ability of FDNS in capturing the flow separation during the startup process.

Wang, T.-S.↗

Transient modeling/analysis of hyperbolic heat conduction problems employing mixed implicit-explicit alpha method

This paper describes the evaluation of mixed implicit-explicit finite element formulations for hyperbolic heat conduction problems involving non-Fourier effects. In particular, mixed implicit-explicit formulations employing the alpha method proposed by Hughes et al. (1987, 1990) are described for the numerical simulation of hyperbolic heat conduction models, which involves time-dependent relaxation effects. Existing analytical approaches for modeling/analysis of such models involve complex mathematical formulations for obtaining closed-form solutions, while in certain numerical formulations the difficulties include severe oscillatory solution behavior (which often disguises the true response) in the vicinity of the thermal disturbances, which propagate with finite velocities. In view of these factors, the alpha method is evaluated to assess the control of the amount of numerical dissipation for predicting the transient propagating thermal disturbances. Numerical test models are presented, and pertinent conclusions are drawn for the mixed-time integration simulation of hyperbolic heat conduction models involving non-Fourier effects.

Tamma, Kumar K.↗

Nonstationary Transient Vibroacoustic Response of a Beam Structure

This study consists of an investigation into the nonstationary transient response of the Verification Test Article (VETA) when subjected to random acoustic excitation. The goal is to assess excitation models that can be used in the design of structures and equipment when knowledge of the structure and the excitation is limited. The VETA is an instrumented cantilever beam that was exposed to acoustic loading during five Space Shuttle launches. The VETA analytical structural model response is estimated using the direct averaged power spectral density and the normalized pressure spectra methods. The estimated responses are compared to the measured response of the VETA. These comparisons are discussed with a focus on prediction conservatism and current design practice.

Caimi, R. E.↗

PTA1 Helium Pressurization System Model

A transient model of the Propulsion Test Article 1 (PTA1) Helium Pressurization System was developed using the Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP). The model included feed lines from the facility interface to the engine purge interface and Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Rocket Propellant 1 (RP-1) tanks, the propellant tanks themselves including ullage space and propellant feed lines to their respective pump interfaces. GFSSPs capability was extended to model a control valve to maintain ullage pressure within a specified limit and pressurization processes such as heat transfer between ullage gas, propellant and the tank wall. The purpose of the model is to predict the flow system characteristics in the entire pressurization system during 80 seconds of pre-pressurization operation, 420 seconds of pressurization stand-by operation and 150 seconds of engine operation. Subsequent to the work presented here, the PTA1 model has been updated to include the LOX and RP-1 pumps, while the pressurization option itself has been modified to include the effects of mass transfer. This updated model will be compared with PTA1 test data as it becomes available.

Steadman, Todd↗

Shock Position Control for Mode Transition in a Turbine Based Combined Cycle Engine Inlet Model

A dual flow-path inlet for a turbine based combined cycle (TBCC) propulsion system is to be tested in order to evaluate methodologies for performing a controlled inlet mode transition. Prior to experimental testing, simulation models are used to test, debug, and validate potential control algorithms which are designed to maintain shock position during inlet disturbances. One simulation package being used for testing is the High Mach Transient Engine Cycle Code simulation, known as HiTECC. This paper discusses the development of a mode transition schedule for the HiTECC simulation that is analogous to the development of inlet performance maps. Inlet performance maps, derived through experimental means, describe the performance and operability of the inlet as the splitter closes, switching power production from the turbine engine to the Dual Mode Scram Jet. With knowledge of the operability and performance tradeoffs, a closed loop system can be designed to optimize the performance of the inlet. This paper demonstrates the design of the closed loop control system and benefit with the implementation of a Proportional-Integral controller, an H-Infinity based controller, and a disturbance observer based controller; all of which avoid inlet unstart during a mode transition with a simulated disturbance that would lead to inlet unstart without closed loop control.

Csank, Jeffrey T.↗

Advanced Shock Position Control for Mode Transition in a Turbine Based Combined Cycle Engine Inlet Model

A dual flow-path inlet system is being tested to evaluate methodologies for a Turbine Based Combined Cycle (TBCC) propulsion system to perform a controlled inlet mode transition. Prior to experimental testing, simulation models are used to test, debug, and validate potential control algorithms. One simulation package being used for testing is the High Mach Transient Engine Cycle Code simulation, known as HiTECC. This paper discusses the closed loop control system, which utilizes a shock location sensor to improve inlet performance and operability. Even though the shock location feedback has a coarse resolution, the feedback allows for a reduction in steady state error and, in some cases, better performance than with previous proposed pressure ratio based methods. This paper demonstrates the design and benefit with the implementation of a proportional-integral controller, an H-Infinity based controller, and a disturbance observer based controller.

Csank, Jeffrey T.↗

A New Class of Changing-look LINERs

We report the discovery of six active galactic nuclei (AGNs) caught "turning on" during the first nine months of the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) survey. The host galaxies were classified as low-ionization nuclear emission-line region galaxies (LINERs) by weak narrow forbidden line emission in their archival SDSS spectra, and detected by ZTF as nuclear transients. In five of the cases, we found via follow-up spectroscopy that they had transformed into broad-line AGNs, reminiscent of the changing-look LINER iPTF16bco. In one case, ZTF18aajupnt/AT2018dyk, follow-up Hubble Space Telescope ultraviolet and ground-based optical spectra revealed the transformation into a narrow-line Seyfert 1 with strong [Fe vii, x, xiv] and He ii λ 4686 coronal lines. Swift monitoring observations of this source reveal bright UV emission that tracks the optical flare, accompanied by a luminous soft X-ray flare that peaks ~60 days later. Spitzer follow-up observations also detect a luminous mid-infrared flare, implying a large covering fraction of dust. Archival light curves of the entire sample from CRTS, ATLAS, and ASAS-SN constrain the onset of the optical nuclear flaring from a prolonged quiescent state. Here we present the systematic selection and follow-up of this new class of changing-look LINERs, compare their properties to previously reported changing-look Seyfert galaxies, and conclude that they are a unique class of transients well-suited to test the uncertain physical processes associated with the LINER accretion state.

Sara Frederick↗

BISON Capability, Validation and Demonstration for Reactivity-Initiated Accidents

Reactivity Initiated Accidents (RIA) are design basis accidents that could have adverse impacts on the core coolability. In the unlikely event that sufficient reactivity is inserted into the reactor core by the ejected/dropped control rod, prompt energy deposition into the fuel can occur, which when sufficiently high can lead to fuel rod failure or, at large energy deposition levels, expulsion of UO2 fragments or molten UO2 material from the fuel rod. This results in a release of fission product and fuel into the coolant and has the potential to compromise core coolability and threatening the pressure boundary of the primary coolant system. The design basis RIA is one of the industry challenging problems that the CASL aimed to address; the CASL RIA Challenge Problem Charter [1] states, ?The Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) Rod Ejection Accident (REA) and Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) Control Rod Drop Accident (CRDA) are postulated accidents with consequences that are important to nuclear safety (fuel rod integrity and core coolability). Currently each reload core design must be analyzed to meet regulatory acceptance criteria. The goal of CASLs ModSim capability for RIA is to model the event at a higher fidelity, with validation to existing tests, to better model the transient neutronics and the progression of the fuel and cladding thermal-mechanical behavior. These improved analytical capabilities can be used to better inform reload core design, limits on fuel assembly discharge burnup, restrictions on placement of fuel in the reactor, control rod insertion limits, operating margin, and performance sensitivities.? In support of that charter, BISON, the fuel performance code has been used to demonstrate the simulation of thermal-mechanical behavior of LWR fuels during a reactivity-initiated accident. The combination of mechanical, thermal, and thermal-hydraulic phenomena all present during an RIA makes a multi-physics code such as BISON a valuable tool for modeling these scenarios. This paper will highlight many of the activities associated with BISON relevant to reactivity-initiated accident capability development and validation efforts. These efforts have been performed under both CASL and the Nuclear Energy Advanced Modeling and Simulation (NEAMS) programs.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

Controller Hardware-in-the-Loop Evaluation of a Microgrid Controller for a Microgrid System with Multiple Grid-Forming Inverters: Preprint

This paper presents the laboratory evaluation of a commercial Microgrid Management System (MGMS) implemented in the real-world Bronzeville Microgrid which features a futuristic scenario with high renewable energy integration and the use of multiple Grid-Forming (GFM) inverters. The primary objective of the performance evaluation for the MGMS is to assess the MGMS's capability to dispatch GFM units, including a GFM PV unit and two GFM battery units, to maintain the system stability and ensure economic operation, thus guaranteeing the microgrid's resilience during prolonged outages and dynamic events. The laboratory controller hardware-in-the-loop provides realistic testing environment through detailed electromagnetic transient modeling of the microgrid system, hardware MGMS, and standard communication protocols (DNP3). The CHIL evaluation shows how the MGMS effectively manages the GFM inverters, highlighting its performance in maintaining stability, reliability, and survivability in a microgrid environment with a high penetration of renewable energy sources.

controller hardware-in-the-loop↗

Controller-Hardware-in-the-Loop Evaluation of a Microgrid Controller for a Microgrid System With Multiple Grid-Forming Inverters

This paper presents the laboratory evaluation of a commercial Microgrid Management System (MGMS) implemented in the real-world Bronzeville Microgrid which features a futuristic scenario with high renewable energy integration and the use of multiple Grid-Forming (GFM) inverters. The primary objective of the performance evaluation for the MGMS is to assess the MGMS's capability to dispatch GFM units, including a GFM PV unit and two GFM battery units, to maintain the system stability and ensure economic operation, thus guaranteeing the microgrid's resilience during prolonged outages and dynamic events. The laboratory controller hardware-in-the-loop provides realistic testing environment through detailed electromagnetic transient modeling of the microgrid system, hardware MGMS, and standard communication protocols (DNP3). This CHIL evaluation shows how the MGMS effectively manages the GFM inverters, highlighting its performance in maintaining stability, reliability, and survivability in a microgrid environment with a high penetration of renewable energy sources.

controller hardware-in-the-loop↗

Lightning induced currents in aircraft wiring using low level injection techniques

Various techniques were studied to predict the transient current induced into aircraft wiring bundles as a result of an aircraft lightning strike. A series of aircraft measurements were carried out together with a theoretical analysis using computer modeling. These tests were applied to various aircraft and also to specially constructed cylinders installed within coaxial return conductor systems. Low level swept frequency CW (carrier waves), low level transient and high level transient injection tests were applied to the aircraft and cylinders. Measurements were made to determine the transfer function between the aircraft drive current and the resulting skin currents and currents induced on the internal wiring. The full threat lightning induced transient currents were extrapolated from the low level data using Fourier transform techniques. The aircraft and cylinders used were constructed from both metallic and CFC (carbon fiber composite) materials. The results show the pulse stretching phenomenon which occurs for CFC materials due to the diffusion of the lightning current through carbon fiber materials. Transmission Line Matrix modeling techniques were used to compare theoretical and measured currents.

Stevens, E. G.↗

High pressure turbomachinery ground test facility

Turbomachinery test facilities are at present scarce to non-existent world-wide. The turbomachinery test facility at Stennis Space Center will provide for advanced development and research and development capabilities for liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen propellant rocket engine components. The facility will provide ultra-high pressure via gas generators to deliver the needed turbine drive on various turbomachinery. State of the art process control systems will provide the vital pressure, temperature and flow requirements during tests. These systems will better control adverse transient conditions during start-up and shutdown, and by using advanced control theory, as well as incorporate test article health monitoring. Also, digital data acquisition systems will obtain high frequency (up to 20 KHz) and low frequency (up to 1 KHz) data during the test. Pressures of up to 15,000 psi will be generated to pressurize high pressure tanks supplying cryogens to various test article inlets thus pushing turbopump materials and manufacturing processes to their limits. By planning for future projects the test facility will be easily adaptable to multi-program test configurations over a range of thermodynamic positions.

Scheuermann, Patrick E.↗

Updates and Verifications of the PROTEUS Suite in FY19

In FY19 efforts were made on updating and verifying the PROTEUS suite in terms of depletion and fuel cycle capabilities, updated MSR capabilities, improving code usability, and supporting simulation of micro reactors. The fuel reloading and shuffling schemes as well as the built-in depletion solver were implemented to add the fuel cycle capability to PROTEUS-NODAL. PERSENT can run with PROTEUS-NODAL which now produce the CCCC interface files. The MSR simulation capability was further updated by making PROTEUS-NODAL coupled with SAM via the MOOSE wrapper. The high fidelity solvers of PROTEUS were updated to support the multiphysics simulation of SFRs and micro reactors. The coupled system of PROTEUS / FLUENT / ANLHTP was developed using Python-based external drivers, demonstrating the coupled simulation for small 3D test problems with heat pipe failure transients. In addition, the gamma transport capability was implemented to compute the detailed gamma distributions that determines the primary heat sources for the fuel assembly structure and non-fueled assemblies. Verification tests using fuel assembly and 2D core problems indicated very good agreement in heating distributions between PROTEUS and VARIANT / GAMSOR solutions. For user support, the NEAMS Workbench was updated to include PROTEUS-NODAL and further extended to handle PROTEUS-MOC for which the support of Workbench is limited, instead requiring the off-line generation of mesh files and corresponding cross section sets. The utility tools of PROTEUS were also updated to support users to model and simulate complicated and non-conventional geometry cores.

11 NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE AND FUEL MATERIALS↗

Microsemi RTG4 Rev C Field Programmable Gate Array Single Event Effects (SEE) Heavy-Ion Test Report

The goal of this study was to perform an independent investigation of single event destructive and transient susceptibility of the Microsemi RTG4 device. The devices under test were the Microsemi RTG4 field programmable gate array (FPGA) Rev C. The devices under test will be referenced as the DUT or RTG4 Rev C throughout this document. The DUT was configured to have various test structures that are geared to measure specific potential susceptibilities of the device. DesignDevice susceptibility was determined by monitoring the DUT for Single Event Transient (SET) and Single Event Upset (SEU) induced faults by exposing the DUT to a heavy ion beam. Potential Single Event Latch-up (SEL) was checked throughout heavy-ion testing by monitoring device current.

Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)↗

A Hybrid Heavy Duty Diesel Power System for Off-Road Applications—Concept Validation

A multiyear power system R&D program was completed with the objective of developing an off-road hybrid heavy duty diesel engine with front end accessory drive-integrated energy storage. This system was validated to deliver 10.5–25.6% reduction in fuel consumption over current Tier 4 Final-based 18L diesel engines, over various off-road machine application cycles. The power system consisted of a downsized heavy-duty diesel 13L engine containing advanced combustion technologies, capable of elevated peak cylinder pressures and thermal efficiencies, thermal barrier coatings, exhaust waste heat recovery via SuperTurbo™ turbocompounding, and hybrid energy assisting and recovery through both mechanical and electrical systems. Following the concept definition, design, and analysis phases of the program, the final phase focused on building and validating the performance and efficiency in laboratory tests. While aspects of the system such as start/stop and reduced off-road cooling package energy losses were only analytically evaluated, the main 13L concept engine with full hybrid system was successfully built and tested in steady-state and in transient certification and real-world application cycles. Extensive simulations in Caterpillar's DYNASTY™ software environment utilized the validation test data to assess performance more fully and confidently over varied cycles and strategies. An average fuel consumption reduction of 17.9% was realized, and the majority (~13%) of the benefit stemmed from the core concept 13L engine. In conclusion, a total cost of ownership analysis provides context to commercial viability and where adoption focus should be placed.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

Assessment of numerical methods for the solution of fluid dynamics equations for nonlinear resonance systems

The capability of accurate nonlinear flow analysis of resonance systems is essential in many problems, including combustion instability. Classical numerical schemes are either too diffusive or too dispersive especially for transient problems. In the last few years, significant progress has been made in the numerical methods for flows with shocks. The objective was to assess advanced shock capturing schemes on transient flows. Several numerical schemes were tested including TVD, MUSCL, ENO, FCT, and Riemann Solver Godunov type schemes. A systematic assessment was performed on scalar transport, Burgers' and gas dynamic problems. Several shock capturing schemes are compared on fast transient resonant pipe flow problems. A system of 1-D nonlinear hyperbolic gas dynamics equations is solved to predict propagation of finite amplitude waves, the wave steepening, formation, propagation, and reflection of shocks for several hundred wave cycles. It is shown that high accuracy schemes can be used for direct, exact nonlinear analysis of combustion instability problems, preserving high harmonic energy content for long periods of time.

Przekwas, A. J.↗