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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 73 records · Page 4

Boundary layer thickness effect on boattail drag

A combined experimental and analytical program was conducted to investigate the effects of boundary layer changes on the flow over high angle boattail nozzles. The tests were run on an isolated axisymmetric sting mounted model. Various boattail geometries were investigated at high subsonic speeds over a range of boundary layer thicknesses. In general, boundary layer effects were small at speeds up to Mach 0.8. However, at higher speeds significant regions of separated flow were present on the boattail. When separation was present large reductions in boattail drag resulted with increasing boundary layer thickness. The analysis predicts both of these trends.

Blaha, B. J.↗

Boundary layer thickness effect on boattail drag

A combined experimental and analytical program has been conducted at the NASA Lewis Research Center, to investigate the effects of boundary layer changes on the flow over high angle boattail nozzles. The tests were run on an isolated axisymmetric sting mounted model. Various boattail geometries were investigated at high subsonic speeds over a range of boundary layer thicknesses. In general, boundary layer effects were small at speeds up to Mach 0.8. However, at higher speeds significant regions of separated flow were present on the boattail. When separation was present large reductions in boattail drag resulted with increasing boundary layer thickness. The analysis predicts both of these trends.

Blaha, B. J.↗

High speed rotorcraft propulsion concepts to control power/speed characteristics

Recent NASA sponsored rotorcraft airframer studies have demonstrated the desire for constant power over a wide range of output speed for turboshaft propulsion systems. This study interrogated several different concepts aimed at maintaining constant power over a speed variation from 100-50 percent with minimum increase in fuel consumption. The baseline engine was an advanced technology 8000 shp, fixed turbine geometry, turboshaft engine. The concepts investigated included variable geometry turbines, variable geometry compressors, power transfer from the HP to LP shafts, counterrotating power turbine with a combiner gearbox, and variable speed transmission integrated with the baseline turboshaft engine. The concept that best satisfies the program objectives with superior engine performance and with the least technical risk is the baseline (fixed geometry turbines) turboshaft engine integrated with the variable speed transmission.

Bettner, J. L.↗

Finite Element Modeling of Electrochemical Polishing of Niobium in Hydrofluoric-Sulfuric Acid Electrolyte

Niobium (Nb) used in superconducting radio-frequency cavities requires smooth surface to achieve optimal performance. In this work, a finite element model that coupled electrochemistry, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics was developed to investigate the electrochemical polishing mechanisms of Nb, using experimentally measured polarization results of coupon samples as validations. The current and potential distribution, oxide growth kinetics of Nb in a complex cavity geometry was investigated as a function of temperature and coolant flow. A low temperature coolant with intermediate flow rate was found to reduce surface current and ensure oxide uniformity. These results could shed light on the design of future particle accelerators.

SRF accelerator cavity↗

Bulk transport paths through defects in floating zone and Al flux grown SmB 6

We investigate the roles of disorder on low-temperature transport in SmB 6 crystals grown by both the Al flux and floating zone methods. We used the inverted resistance method with Corbino geometry to investigate whether low-temperature variations in the standard resistance plateau arise from a surface or a bulk channel in floating zone samples. The results show significant sample-dependent residual bulk conduction, in contrast to smaller amounts of residual bulk conduction previously observed in Al flux grown samples with Sm vacancies. In this work, we consider hopping in an activated impurity band as a possible source for the observed bulk conduction, but it is unlikely that the large residual bulk conduction seen in floating zone samples is solely due to Sm vacancies. We therefore propose that one-dimensional defects, or dislocations, contribute as well. Using chemical etching, we find evidence for dislocations in both flux and floating zone samples, with higher dislocation density in floating zone samples than in Al flux grown samples. In addition to the possibility of transport through one-dimensional dislocations, we also discuss our results in the context of recent theoretical models of SmB 6 .

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Feasibility investigation of general time-domain unsteady aerodynamics of rotors

The feasibility of a general theory for the time-domain unsteady aerodynamics of helicopter rotors is investigated. The wake theory gives a linearized relation between the downwash and the wing bound circulation, in terms of the impulse response obtained directly in the time domain. This approach makes it possible to treat general wake configurations, including discrete wake vorticity with rolled-up and distorted geometry. The investigation establishes the approach for model order reduction; determines when a constrained identification method is needed; verifies the formulation of the theory for rolled-up, distorted trim wake geometry; and verifies the formulation of the theory for wake geometry perturbations. The basic soundness of the approach is demonstrated by the results presented. A research program to complete the development of the method is outlined. The result of this activity will be an approach for analyzing the aeroelastic stability and response of helicopter rotors, while retaining the important influence of the complicated rotor wake configuration.

Johnson, Wayne↗

Direct observation of magnetic ordering induced via systematic lattice disorder in artificial rhombus spin ices

It is critical to understand the effect of lattice geometry on the order parameter of a condensed matter system, as it controls phase transitions in such systems. Artificial spin ices (ASIs) are two-dimensional lattices of Ising-like nanomagnets that provide an opportunity to explore such phenomena by lithographically controlling the lattice geometry to observe its influence on magnetic ordering and frustration effects. Here we report a systematic approach to studying the effects of disorder in rhombus ASIs generated from combinations of five vertex motifs. We investigate four geometries characterized by a geometric order parameter, with symmetries ranging from periodic to quasiperiodic to random. Lorentz transmission electron microscopy data indicates magnetic domain behavior depends on chains of strongly-coupled islands in the periodic and sixfold-twinned lattices, while the behavior of the disordered lattice is dominated by vertex motifs with large configurational degeneracy. Utilizing micromagnetic simulations, a quantitative analysis of the lattice energetics showed that the experimental rotationally-demagnetized state of the disordered ASI was closer in energy to the idealized ground state compared to other periodic and twinned ASIs. Finally, our work provides a unique pathway for using degeneracy, magnetic frustration, and order to control the magnetization behavior of designer disordered systems.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

On the effects of grid ill-conditioning in three dimensional finite element vector potential magnetostatic field computations

The effects of finite element grid geometries and associated ill-conditioning were studied in single medium and multi-media (air-iron) three dimensional magnetostatic field computation problems. The sensitivities of these 3D field computations to finite element grid geometries were investigated. It was found that in single medium applications the unconstrained magnetic vector potential curl-curl formulation in conjunction with first order finite elements produce global results which are almost totally insensitive to grid geometries. However, it was found that in multi-media (air-iron) applications first order finite element results are sensitive to grid geometries and consequent elemental shape ill-conditioning. These sensitivities were almost totally eliminated by means of the use of second order finite elements in the field computation algorithms. Practical examples are given in this paper to demonstrate these aspects mentioned above.

Wang, R.↗

An investigation of the effects of aft blowing on a 3.0 caliber tangent ogive body at high angles of attack

An experimental investigation of the effects of aft blowing on the asymmetric vortex flow of a slender, axisymmetric body at high angles of attack was conducted. A 3.0 caliber tangent ogive body fitted with a cylindrical afterbody was tested in a wind tunnel under subsonic, laminar flow test conditions. Asymmetric blowing from both a single nozzle and a double nozzle configuration, positioned near the body apex, was investigated. Aft blowing was observed to alter the vortex asymmetry by moving the blowing-side vortex closer to the body surface while moving the non-blowing-side vortex further away from the body. The effect of increasing the blowing coefficient was to move the blowing-side vortex closer to the body surface at a more upstream location. The data also showed that blowing was more effective in altering the initial vortex asymmetry at the higher angles of attack than at the lower. The effects of changing the nozzle exit geometry were investigated and it was observed that blowing from a nozzle with a low, broad exit geometry was more effective in reducing the vortex asymmetry than blowing from a high, narrow exit geometry.

Gittner, Nathan M.↗

Experimental investigation of a Mach 6 fixed-geometry inlet featuring a swept external-internal compression flow field

An investigation of a fixed-geometry, swept external-internal compression inlet was conducted at a Mach number of 6.0 and a test-section Reynolds number of 1.55 x 10 to the 7th power per meter. The test conditions was constant for all runs with stagnation pressure and temperature at 20 atmospheres and 500 K, respectively. Tests were made at angles of attack of -5 deg, 0 deg, 3 deg, and 5 deg. Measurements consisted of pitot- and static-pressure surveys in inlet throat, wall static pressures, and surface temperatures. Boundary-layer bleed was provided on the centerbody and on the cowl internal surface. The inlet performance was consistently high over the range of the angle of attack tested, with an overall average total pressure recovery of 78 percent and corresponding adiabatic kinetic-energy efficiency of 99 percent. The inlet throat flow distribution was uniform and the Mach number and pressure level were of the correct magnitude for efficient combustor design. The utilization of a swept compression field to meet the starting requirements of a fixed-geometry inlet produced neither flow instability nor a tendency to unstart.

Torrence, M. G.↗

Effect of configuration variation on externally blown flap noise

The sensitivity of flap interaction noise to variations in engine-under-the-wing externally blown flap geometry was investigated with a large cold-flow model. Both 2- and 3-flap wing sections (7-ft chord) with trailing flap angles up to 60 deg were employed. Exhaust nozzles included coaxial, plug, and 8- and 13-inch diameter conical configurations. These nozzles were tested at two positions below the wing. The effects of these geometry variations on noise level, directivity, and spectral shape are summarized in terms of exhaust flow parameters evaluated at the nozzle exit and at the flap impingement station. The results are also compared with limited flap noise data available from tests using real engines.

Dorsch, R. G.↗

Investigations of flowfields found in typical combustor geometries

The flowfields of gas turbine combustion chambers were investigated. Six flowfield configurations with sidewall angles alpha = 90 and 45 deg. and swirl vane angles phi = 0, 45 and 70 deg. are characterized. Photography of neutrally-buoyant helium-filled soap bubbles, tufts, and injected smoke helps to characterize the time-mean streamlines, recirculation zones and regions of highly turbulent flow. Five-hole pitot probe pressure measurements allow the determination of time-mean velocities u, v and w. An advanced computer code equipped with a standard two-equation kappa-epsilon turbulence model was used to predict corresponding flow situations and to compare results with the experimental data.

Lilley, D. G.↗

Design and Test of a Tethered Pair of Satellites: Equipment Requirements

A recent development in spacecraft mission design involves the increasing use of Distributed Spacecraft Systems (DSS). Several key technologies must mature sufficiently to facilitate these missions, including the use of spacecraft flying in tightly controlled formations. Such formations may be controlled using "free flying" navigation schemes, or alternatively may use tethers to constrain the formation geometry. An investigation has been initiated here to further develop this technology using two small spacecraft connected by a short tether. After insertion into orbit, the tether will be extended and various data collected on the performance of the dual-spacecraft "formation." At some later time, the tether will be cut, and the spacecraft pair will be navigated in a manner to maintain a geometry as closely as possible to that of the tethered configuration. Comparisons and evaluations of the two modes of operation can then be made so that the merits of both approaches are available to mission designers.

Pernicka, Henry J.↗

Investigation of Carbon-Reinforced Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene 3D-Printed Honeycomb Composites

The expansive utility of polymeric 3D printing technologies and demand for high-performance lightweight structures has prompted the emergence of various carbon-reinforced polymer composite filaments. However, detailed characterization of the processing-microstructure-property relationships of these materials is still required to realize their full potential. In this study, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and carbon reinforced ABS variants, both carbon nanotubes (CNT) and 5 wt.% chopped carbon fiber (CF), are fabricated in a honeycomb geometry and investigated across a range of layer thicknesses and hex sizes. Microscopy of material cross-sections is conducted to evaluate the relationship between print parameters and porosity. Additionally, mechanical properties are evaluated through compression testing, demonstrating the potential of honeycomb ABS, ABS-CNT, and ABS-5wt.% CF polymer composites for novel 3D printed structures.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)↗

Investigation of Carbon-Reinforced Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene 3D-Printed Honeycomb Composites

The expansive utility of polymeric 3D printing technologies and demand for high-performance lightweight structures has prompted the emergence of various carbon-reinforced polymer composite filaments. However, detailed characterization of the processing-microstructure-property relationships of these materials is still required to realize their full potential. In this study, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and carbon reinforced ABS variants, both carbon nanotubes (CNT) and 5 wt.% chopped carbon fiber (CF), are fabricated in a honeycomb geometry and investigated across a range of layer thicknesses and hex sizes. Microscopy of material cross-sections is conducted to evaluate the relationship between print parameters and porosity. Additionally, mechanical properties are evaluated through compression testing, demonstrating the potential of honeycomb ABS, ABS-CNT, and ABS-5wt.% CF polymer composites for novel 3D printed structures.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)↗

Eikonal black hole ringings in generalized energy-momentum squared gravity

In the scope of black hole spectroscopy, several attempts have been made in the past decades to test black holes or gravitational theories via black hole quasinormal modes. In the eikonal approximation, the quasinormal modes are generically associated with the photon ring of the black hole. This correspondence is valid for most cases in general relativity, but may not be true in other theories of gravity. In this paper, we consider the generalized energy-momentum squared gravity in which matter fields are nonminimally coupled to geometry. We investigate the axial perturbations of the charged black holes in this model, without assuming any explicit expression of the action functional. After obtaining the modified Klein-Gordon equation and the modified Maxwell equations, we perturb the gravitational equations and the modified Maxwell equations to derive the coupled master equations of the axial perturbations. In the presence of the nonminimal coupling between matter and geometry, the correspondence between the eikonal quasinormal modes and the photon ring is not satisfied in general. Also, the two coupled fields of the axial perturbations are found to propagate independently, and they do not share the same quasinormal frequencies in the eikonal limit.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Effect of configuration variation on externally blown flap noise

The sensitivity of flap interaction noise to variations in engine-under-the-wing externally blown flap geometry was investigated with a large cold-flow model. Both two- and three-flap wing sections (7-ft chord) with trailing flap angles up to 60 deg were employed. Exhaust nozzles included coaxial, plug, and 8- and 13-in.-diam conical configurations. These nozzles were tested at two positions below the wing (19-1/4 and 29-1/4 in.). The effects of these geometry variations on noise level, directivity, and spectral shape are summarized in terms of exhaust flow parameters evaluated at the nozzle exit and at the flap impingement station. The results are also compared with limited flap noise data available from tests using real engines.

Dorsch, R. G.↗

A static investigation of the thrust vectoring system of the F/A-18 high-alpha research vehicle

A static (wind-off) test was conducted in the static test facility of the Langley 16-foot Transonic Tunnel to evaluate the vectoring capability and isolated nozzle performance of the proposed thrust vectoring system of the F/A-18 high alpha research vehicle (HARV). The thrust vectoring system consisted of three asymmetrically spaced vanes installed externally on a single test nozzle. Two nozzle configurations were tested: A maximum afterburner-power nozzle and a military-power nozzle. Vane size and vane actuation geometry were investigated, and an extensive matrix of vane deflection angles was tested. The nozzle pressure ratios ranged from two to six. The results indicate that the three vane system can successfully generate multiaxis (pitch and yaw) thrust vectoring. However, large resultant vector angles incurred large thrust losses. Resultant vector angles were always lower than the vane deflection angles. The maximum thrust vectoring angles achieved for the military-power nozzle were larger than the angles achieved for the maximum afterburner-power nozzle.

Mason, Mary L.↗