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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
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1981

Scaling from Jupiter to pulsar and the acceleration of cosmic ray particles by pulsars

The total energy output per second from the 73 known pulsars is estimated. By following the principle of similitude (Rayleigh, 1915), an expression is derived for the energy generated by a rotating magnetized celestial body, and the dipole moment of the body is related linearly with its angular momentum. The scaling constant of the two equations combined is determined, and then checked by comparing the deduced masses of the 73 pulsars with the theoretical limits for neutron stars. By using the scaling constant and deduced pulsar masses, the rates of acceleration of high-energy particles by pulsars, thence the energy output from pulsars, can be estimated. Results show that the Crab pulsar outshines all the others combined.

Fan, Y. C.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Scaling from Jupiter to pulsars and mass spectrum of pulsars

Following the principle of similitude, the energy loss of Jupiter was scaled through the acceleration of high energy particles to that of Crab pulsar. The agreement suggests a classification scheme for all pulsars in which the pulsar angular velocity and its decrease with time are related to the pulsar moment of inertia divided by its radius and its mass is determined according to neutron star models. The mass spectrum of 194 pulsars is found to be approximately 1/sq m.

Fan, C. Y.↗
NASA NTRS1982

'Scaling' analysis of the ice accretion process on aircraft surfaces

A comprehensive set of scaling parameters is developed for the ice accretion process by analyzing the energy equations of the dynamic freezing zone and the already frozen ice layer, the continuity equation associated with supercooled liquid droplets entering into and impacting within the dynamic freezing zone, and energy equation of the ice layer. No initial arbitrary judgments are made regarding the relative magnitudes of each of the terms. The method of intrinsic reference variables in employed in order to develop the appropriate scaling parameters and their relative significance in rime icing conditions in an orderly process, rather than utilizing empiricism. The significance of these parameters is examined and the parameters are combined with scaling criteria related to droplet trajectory similitude.

Keshock, E. G.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Design and verification of a cloud field optical simulator

A concept and an apparatus designed to investigate the reflected and transmitted distributions of light from optically thick clouds is presented. The Cloud Field Optical Simulator (CFOS) is a laboratory device which utilizes an array of incandescent lamps as a source, simulated clouds made from cotton or styrofoam as targets, and an array of silicon photodiodes as detectors. The device allows virtually any source-target-detector geometry to be examined. Similitude between real clouds and their CFOS cotton or styrofoam counterparts is established by relying on a linear relationship between optical depth and the ratio of reflected to transmitted light for a semiinfinite layer. Comparisons of principal plane radiances observed by the CFOS with Monte Carlo computations for a water cloud at 0.7 micron show excellent agreement. Initial applications of the CFOS are discussed.

Davis, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Design and verification of a cloud field optical simulator

A concept and an apparatus designed to investigate the reflected and transmitted distributions of light from optically thick clouds is presented. The Cloud Field Optical Simulator (CFOS) is a laboratory device which utilizes an array of incandescent lamps as a source, simulated clouds made from cotton or styrofoam as targets, and an array of silicon photodiodes as detectors. The device allows virtually any source-target-detector geometry to be examined. Similitude between real clouds and their CFOS cotton or styrofoam counterparts is established by relying on a linear relationship between optical depth and the ratio of reflected to transmitted light for a semi-infinite layer. Comparisons of principal plane radiances observed by the CFOS with Monte Carlo computations for a water cloud at 0.7 microns show excellent agreement.

Davis, J. M.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Desktop computer graphics for RMS/payload handling flight design

A computer program, the Multi-Adaptive Drawings, Renderings and Similitudes (MADRAS) program, is discussed. The modeling program, written for a desktop computer system (the Hewlett-Packard 9845/C), is written in BASIC and uses modular construction of objects while generating both wire-frame and hidden-line drawings from any viewpoint. The dimensions and placement of objects are user definable. Once the hidden-line calculations are made for a particular viewpoint, the viewpoint may be rotated in pan, tilt, and roll without further hidden-line calculations. The use and results of this program are discussed.

Homan, D. J.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Nonequilibrium effects for hypersonic transitional flows

Presented are the results of numerical simulations of hypersonic flow about blunt cones and hemispherical nose configurations for reentry velocities of 7.5 and 10 km/s. Cone half angles 0, 5, and 10 deg are considered at zero angle of incidence; however, the focus is for the 5 deg cone. The body size and altitude ranges considered (70 to 110 km) are such that the flow is in the transitional regime. Translational, thermodynamic, and chemical nonequilibrium effects are considered in the numerical simulation by utilizing the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) method of Bird. The DSMC results are compared with those obtained with viscous shock-layer and Navier-Stokes methods. Comparisons between the DSMC and continuum calculations show the altitude range where differences in flowfield structure and surface quantities become significant. The current calculations show that the binary scaling similitude provides a means of correlating the blunt body surface quantities in the hypersonic, transitional regime. Furthermore, for the higher velocity entry conditions, the results highlight some of the concerns in the application of multitemperature continuum formulations, particularly the use of some proposed functional relations for the chemical rate constants under thermodynamic nonequilibrium conditions.

Moss, James N.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Laser anemometry measurements of natural circulation flow in a scale model PWR reactor system

The natural circulation of a single phase fluid in a scale model of a pressurized water reactor system during a postulated grade core accident is analyzed. The fluids utilized were water and SF6. The design of the reactor model and the similitude requirements are described. Four LDA tests were conducted: water with 28 kW of heat in the simulated core, with and without the participation of simulated steam generators; water with 28 kW of heat in the simulated core, with the participation of simulated steam generators and with cold upflow of 12 lbm/min from the lower plenum; and SF6 with 0.9 kW of heat in the simulated core and without the participation of the simulated steam generators. For the water tests, the velocity of the water in the center of the core increases with vertical height and continues to increase in the upper plenum. For SF6, it is observed that the velocities are an order of magnitude higher than those of water; however, the velocity patterns are similar.

Kadambi, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Alterations in crack-tip deformation during variable-amplitude fatigue crack growth

Fatigue crack growth rate changes caused by single overloads and an overload followed by an underload have been studied in the high-strength aluminum alloy 7091. Crack-tip plasticity parameters were measured at each step in the loading sequence using the stereoimaging technique. Effective stress-intensity factor was measured with high resolution immediately at the crack tip both before an overload and during the subsequent growth rate retardation period. Crack-tip opening displacement and strain were altered in the same way as growth rate following the overload/underload events, and similitude with respect to crack-tip plasticity was preserved during the growth retardation period. Effective stress-intensity factor was found to correlate well with crack growth rate. Strains within the plastic zone were converted to stress at each step in load change. These stresses were then summed to determine the zone of residual stress caused by the overload. The region of compressive residual stress ahead of the crack tip was found to increase with overload severity but was limited to yield stress in magnitude. An underload shrank the spatial extent of the residual stresses caused by the overload.

Davidson, David L.↗
NASA NTRS1988

Simulation of the effects of the orbital debris environment on spacecraft

A remedy for the lack of a technique for testing the effects of orbital debris impacts has been sought along two paths at Boeing and elsewhere, firstly through the development of new launcher techniques capable of impact velocities between 8 and 16 km/s and secondly through the development of similitude techniques for modeling 8 to 16 km/s impacts using the present capabilities of projectile launchers. These two approaches are briefly discussed.

Bjorkman, Michael D.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Corrosion fatigue crack propagation in metals

This review assesses fracture mechanics data and mechanistic models for corrosion fatigue crack propagation in structural alloys exposed to ambient temperature gases and electrolytes. Extensive stress intensity-crack growth rate data exist for ferrous, aluminum and nickel based alloys in a variety of environments. Interactive variables (viz., stress intensity range, mean stress, alloy composition and microstructure, loading frequency, temperature, gas pressure and electrode potential) strongly affect crack growth kinetics and complicate fatigue control. Mechanistic models to predict crack growth rates were formulated by coupling crack tip mechanics with occluded crack chemistry, and from both the hydrogen embrittlement and anodic dissolution/film rupture perspectives. Research is required to better define: (1) environmental effects near threshold and on crack closure; (2) damage tolerant life prediction codes and the validity of similitude; (3) the behavior of microcrack; (4) probes and improved models of crack tip damage; and (5) the cracking performance of advanced alloys and composites.

Gangloff, Richard P.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Preparation of the Ice Certification of the Dornier 328 Regional Airliner By Numerical Simulation and By Ground Test

The Dornier 328, a new regional airliner, is to be qualified to FAR25/JAR25 requirements for operation into known icing conditions. All lifting surfaces are pneumatically deiced. Impingement limits were determined using a validated computational fluid dynamic (CFD) code. Wind tunnel tests with a model of the whole aircraft and the isolated empennage equipped with artificial ice shapes showed a degradation of handling characteristics due to ice accretion. Extensive two and three dimensional CFD calculations evaluated ice accretion at the deflection elevator horn. Icing tunnel tests were performed with a model of the horizontal tail with icing similitude fulfilled. The Dornier Do328 powerplant air induction system has successfully completed a program of icing tests in support of aircraft certification for operation into known icing conditions. Potential flight icing conditions were extensively analyzed using a CFD potential flow code and 3-D particle tracking routine to identify critical flight icing conditions. The tunnel test program verified the analytically predicted critical ice accretion surfaces of the air induction system, the adequacy of the ice protection provisions and demonstrated compliance with the applicable (JAR25) regulatory material.

D Welte↗
NASA NTRS1992

Steady and transient performance calculation method for prediction, analysis, and identification

The detailed design and development of turbofans Involves the prediction and identification, by means of test analysis, of the performance of the engine and its components. The thermodynamic simulation and analysis codes integrate existing knowledge and Interpretations of the detailed operating procedure of the components of the engine being developed. The relevance of the predicted performance depends on the quality of the representation of the various physical phenomena affecting the characteristics of the components and, consequently, on the incorporation of experimental correlation in the modelling. In this context, the representation of compressor and turbine characteristics is particularly important. Firstly, we will analyze the ability of corrected parameters to represent MACH similitude at the component inlet under various conditions. The various measurements achieved on the engine during development are used to enhance the modelling. The methods of identifying the thermodynamic calculation code with the various measurements, considered here with their uncertainties, are then presented and described. The analysis of the tests performed on the powerplant, designed to Identify the real characteristics of the engine components, can be undertaken, considering one or more engine test points and incorporating knowledge acquired through experimentation or on the component test bench. There are many possible fields of use for these identification methods ranging from the rematching of components to the optimization of the control system.

Jean Pierre Duponchel↗
NASA NTRS1991

A bulk flow model of a brush seal system

Fibers can be readily fabricated into a variety of seal configurations that are compliant and responsive to high speed or lightly loaded systems. A linear, circular, or contoured brush seal system is a contact seal consisting of the bristle pattern and hardened interface. When compared to a labyrinth seal, the brush seal system is superior and features low leakage, dynamic stability, and permits compliant structures. But in turn, the system usually requires a hardened smooth interface and permits only limited pressure drops. Wear life and wear debris for operations with static or dynamic excitation are largely undetermined. A seal system involves control of fluid within specific boundaries. The brush and rub ring (or rub surface) form a seal system. Design similitudes, a bulk flow model, and rub ring (interface) coatings are discussed. The bulk flow model calculations are based on flows in porous media and filters. The coatings work is based on experience and expanded to include current practice.

Hendricks, R. C.↗
NASA NTRS1991

A review of fatigue crack growth analyses

Stress intensity factor range, Delta K, has been shown to correlate well with fatigue crack growth rate, da/dN. A number of fatigue crack growth theories have been developed for such correlations. Often, conjectory theories of fatigue crack growth are constructed from experimental data. On the other hand, fatigue crack growth theories can also be derived rigorously with deductive logic. Four such deductive theories are reviewed: (1) that for the growth of a small crack in a very wide homogeneous plate, (2) the theory of similitude for the correlation of da/dN with Delta K, (3) a theory of crack growth in homogeneous materials in small-scale yielding, and (4) the unzipping theory of fatigue crack growth. This paper synthesizes these four theories into a logic framework useful for fatigue crack growth analysis. The deductive theories and the conjectory theories complement each other in the advances of the understanding of fatigue crack growth. The applications of logic framework to formulating an overview of fatigue crack growth behavior and to defining the complex issues of the growth of small cracks and crack growth in composites are illustrated.

Liu, H. W.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Effects of scale in predicting global structural response

Analytical techniques for scale-up effects were reviewed. The advantages and limitations of applying the principles of similitude to composite structures is summarized and illustrated by simple examples. An analytical procedure was formulated to design scale models of an axially compressed composite cylinder. A building-block approach was outlined where each structural detail is analyzed independently and the probable failure sequence of a selected component is predicted, taking into account load redistribution subsequent to first element failure. Details of this building-block approach are under development.

Deo, R. B.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Evaluation of some scale effects in the response and failure of composite beams

The feasibility of using scale model testing for predicting full-scale behavior of composite beams loaded in tension and flexure was investigated. Classical laws of similitude were applied to fabricate and test replica model beams to identify scaling effects in the load response, strength, and mode of failure. Experiments were conducted using graphite-epoxy composite beams having different laminate stacking sequences and a range of scaled sizes. Results indicated that the elastic response of scaled composite beams was independent of specimen size. However, a significant scale effect in strength was observed. In addition, a transition in failure mode was observed among scaled beams of certain laminate stacking sequences. Weibull statistical and fracture mechanics based models were applied to predict the strength scale effect since standard failure criteria cannot account for the influence of absolute specimen size in failure.

Jackson, Karen E.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Scale effects in the response and failure of fiber reinforced composite laminates loaded in tension and in flexure

The feasibility of using scale model testing for predicting the full-scale behavior of flat composite coupons loaded in tension and beam-columns loaded in flexure is examined. Classical laws of similitude are applied to fabricate and test replica model specimens to identify scaling effects in the load response, strength, and mode of failure. Experiments were performed on graphite-epoxy composite specimens having different laminate stacking sequences and a range of scaled sizes. From the experiments it was deduced that the elastic response of scaled composite specimens was independent of size. However, a significant scale effect in strength was observed. In addition, a transition in failure mode was observed among scaled specimens of certain laminate stacking sequences. A Weibull statistical model and a fracture mechanics based model were applied to predict the strength scale effect since standard failure criteria cannot account for the influence of absolute specimen size on strength.

Jackson, Karen E.↗