Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “load analysis”

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.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 1,171 records · Page 65

Further studies using matched filter theory and stochastic simulation for gust loads prediction

This paper describes two analysis methods -- one deterministic, the other stochastic -- for computing maximized and time-correlated gust loads for aircraft with nonlinear control systems. The first method is based on matched filter theory; the second is based on stochastic simulation. The paper summarizes the methods, discusses the selection of gust intensity for each method and presents numerical results. A strong similarity between the results from the two methods is seen to exist for both linear and nonlinear configurations.

Scott, Robert C.↗

Cryogenic system for the MYRRHA superconducting linear accelerator

SCK⋅CEN, the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, is designing MYRRHA, a flexible fast spectrum research reactor (80 MW{sub th}), conceived as an accelerator driven system (ADS), able to operate in sub-critical and critical modes. It contains a continuous-wave (CW) superconducting (SC) proton accelerator of 600 MeV, a spallation target and a multiplying core with MOX fuel, cooled by liquid lead-bismuth (Pb-Bi). From 17 MeV onward, the SC accelerator will consist of 48 β=0.36 spoke-loaded cavities (352 MHz), 34 β=0.47 elliptical cavities (704 MHz) and 60 β=0.65 elliptical cavities (704 MHz). We present an analysis of the thermal loads and of the optimal operating temperature of the cryogenic system. In particular, the low operating frequency of spoke cavities makes their operation in CW mode possible both at 4.2 K or at 2 K. Our analysis outlines the main factors that determine at what temperature the spoke cavities should be operated. We then present different cryogenic fluid distribution schemes, important characteristics (storage, transfer line, etc.) and the main challenges offered by MYRRHA in terms of cryogenics.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

The effect of steady aerodynamic loading on the flutter stability of turbomachinery blading

An aeroelastic analysis is presented which accounts for the effect of steady aerodynamic loading on the aeroelastic stability of a cascade of compressor blades. The aeroelastic model is a two degree of freedom model having bending and torsional displacements. A linearized unsteady potential flow theory is used to determine the unsteady aerodynamic response coefficients for the aeroelastic analysis. The steady aerodynamic loading was caused by the addition of airfoil thickness and camber and steady flow incidence. The importance of steady loading on the airfoil unsteady pressure distribution is demonstrated. Additionally, the effect of steady loading on the tuned flutter behavior and flutter boundaries indicates that neglecting either airfoil thickness, camber or incidence could result in nonconservative estimates of flutter behavior.

Smith, Todd E.↗

The effect of steady aerodynamic loading on the flutter stability of turbomachinery blading

An aeroelastic analysis is presented which accounts for the effect of steady aerodynamic loading on the aeroelastic stability of a cascade of compressor blades. The aeroelastic model is a two degree of freedom model having bending and torsional displacements. A linearized unsteady potential flow theory is used to determine the unsteady aerodynamic response coefficients for the aeroelastic analysis. The steady aerodynamic loading was caused by the addition of airfoil thickness and camber and steady flow incidence. The importance of steady loading on the airfoil unsteady pressure distribution is demonstrated. Additionally, the effect of steady loading on the tuned flutter behavior and flutter boundaries indicates that neglecting either airfoil thickness, camber or incidence could result in nonconservative estimates of flutter behavior.

Smith, Todd E.↗

Ply-level failure analysis of a graphite/epoxy laminate under bearing-bypass loading

A combined experimental and analytical study was conducted to investigate and predict the failure modes of a graphite/epoxy laminate subjected to combined bearing and bypass loading. Tests were conducted in a test machine that allowed the bearing-bypass load ratio to be controlled while a single-fastener coupon was loaded to failure in either tension or compression. Onset and ultimate failure modes and strengths were determined for each test case. The damage-onset modes were studied in detail by sectioning and micrographing the damaged specimens. A two-dimensional, finite-element analysis was conducted to determine lamina strains around the bolt hole. Damage onset consisted of matrix cracks, delamination, and fiber failures. Stiffness loss appeared to be caused by fiber failures rather than by matrix cracking and delamination. An unusual offset-compression mode was observed for compressive bearing-bypass laoding in which the specimen failed across its width along a line offset from the hole. The computed lamina strains in the fiber direction were used in a combined analytical and experimental approach to predict bearing-bypass diagrams for damage onset from a few simple tests.

Naik, R. A.↗

Testing and Analysis of a Composite Non-Cylindrical Aircraft Fuselage Structure: Ultimate Design Loads - Part 1

The Environmentally Responsible Aviation Project aimed to develop aircraft technologies enabling significant fuel burn and community noise reductions. Small incremental changes to the conventional metallic alloy-based 'tube and wing' configuration were not sufficient to achieve the desired metrics. One airframe concept identified by the project as having the potential to dramatically improve aircraft performance was a composite-based hybrid wing body configuration. Such a concept, however, presented inherent challenges stemming from, among other factors, the necessity to transfer wing loads through the entire center fuselage section which accommodates a pressurized cabin confined by flat or nearly flat panels. This paper discusses finite element analysis and testing of a large-scale hybrid wing body center section structure developed and constructed to demonstrate that the Pultruded Rod Stitched Efficient Unitized Structure concept can meet these challenging demands of the next generation airframes. Part I of the paper considers the five most critical load conditions, which are internal pressure only and positive and negative g-loads with and without internal pressure. Analysis results are compared with measurements acquired during testing. Performance of the test article is found to be closely aligned with predictions and, consequently, able to support the hybrid wing body design loads in pristine and barely visible impact damage conditions.

Przekop, Adam↗

Parametric and sensitivity analysis of a PCM-integrated wall for optimal thermal load modulation in lightweight buildings

Load modulation in buildings is becoming increasingly important due to growing disparity in energy demand during peak and off-peak hours. Integrating phase change material (PCM) in building envelopes and using a controlled precooling strategy can provide substantial thermal load modulation; however, it may greatly increase the total energy use. Previous studies have employed PCM in building envelopes primarily for energy savings and, to some extent, peak load shedding and shifting. However, the load modulation capacity of a PCM-integrated envelope has not been well explored in the literature. In this study, we perform an extensive parametric and sensitivity analysis on PCM-integrated lightweight building walls and examine the combinatory effects of various PCM parameters on thermal load modulation and wall-related heat gains in buildings. Using numerical simulations, we investigate eight PCM parameters: PCM location in the wall, transition temperature, thickness, latent heat, transition range, density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity. Here, we evaluate their impact and relative importance to achieve maximum load modulation in buildings without compromising occupants’ thermal comfort or total energy use. The results show that the optimized PCM proposed in this study can completely invert the transient heat gain profile of the wall, providing up to 70% reduction of wall-related heat gain during peak hours without a major increase in the cumulative heat gain.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Static and dynamic helicopter airframe analysis with NASTRAN

The use of NASTRAN at Bell Helicopter Company for structural static and dynamic analysis of a helicopter airframe is described. Analysis of airframe internal loads, main rotor isolation systems, and airframe vibration is discussed. The use of each rigid format for these types of analysis is summarized. Suggested improvements to NASTRAN to increase its effectiveness in performing helicopter airframe analysis are given.

Wilson, H. E.↗

Design Optimization of Stiffened Panels with Postbuckling Constraints

The funding provided by the grant is used to complete the final stages of the development of a geometrically nonlinear analysis and design capability for the static response of compressively loaded prismatic plate structures. The analysis is based on the nonlinear finite strip method and is applicable for structures, such as stiffened panels or box columns, that can be modeled as assemblages of finite length plate strips. In an effort to reduce the computational cost of the nonlinear finite strip method, thus making it suitable for use in the design optimization environment, reduced basis techniques as described in various references by Noor are used in conjunction with the finite strip method. In addition, an efficient scheme for tracing the nonlinear equilibrium paths through highly nonlinear response curves was implemented. The new scheme, which is referred to as the normal flow algorithm, is based on homotopy methods, and is capable of negotiating highly nonlinear limit point instabilities with a reduced computational cost compared to the popular Ricks/Wempner and Chrisfield algorithms.

Guerdal, Zafer↗

Investigating and Analyzing Applied Loads Higher Than Limit Loads

The results of the analysis for Balance 1621 indicate that the stresses are high near sharp corners. It is important to increase the size of the fillets to relieve some of the high stresses for the balances that will be designed. For the existing balances, the stresses are high and do not satisfy the established criteria. Two options are considered here. One is a possible modification of the existing balances, and two is to consider other load options. Redesigning a balance can be done in order to enhance the structural integrity of the balance. Because an existing balance needs to be modified, it is not possible to increase the fillet sizes without some further modifications to the balance. It is required that some materials be extracted from the balance in order to have larger fillet sizes. Researchers are interested in being able to apply some components of the load on the balance above the limit loads assigned. Is it possible to enhance the load on the same balance and maintain the factor of safety required? Some loads were increased above their limit loads and analyzed here.

Karkehabadi, R.↗

Throughput analysis of the IEEE 802.4 token bus standard under heavy load

It has become clear in the last few years that there is a trend towards integrated digital services. Parallel to the development of public Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is service integration in the local area (e.g., a campus, a building, an aircraft). The types of services to be integrated depend very much on the specific local environment. However, applications tend to generate data traffic belonging to one of two classes. According to IEEE 802.4 terminology, the first major class of traffic is termed synchronous, such as packetized voice and data generated from other applications with real-time constraints, and the second class is called asynchronous which includes most computer data traffic such as file transfer or facsimile. The IEEE 802.4 token bus protocol which was designed to support both synchronous and asynchronous traffic is examined. The protocol is basically a timer-controlled token bus access scheme. By a suitable choice of the design parameters, it can be shown that access delay is bounded for synchronous traffic. As well, the bandwidth allocated to asynchronous traffic can be controlled. A throughput analysis of the protocol under heavy load with constant channel occupation of synchronous traffic and constant token-passing times is presented.

Pang, Joseph↗

Damage Tolerance Analysis of Space Shuttle External Tank Lug Fillet Welds Using NASGRO

The damage tolerance of the External Tank (ET) lug welds were reassessed because of an increase in the loads due to the removal of the protuberance air load (PAT.,) ramp. The analysis methods included detailed finite element analysis (FEA) of the ET welded lugs and FEA of the lug weld test configuration. The FEA results were used as input to the crack growth analysis code NASGRO to calculate the mission life capability of the ET lug welds and to predict the number of cycles to failure in the lug weld testing. The presentation presents the method of transferring the FEM results to the NASGRO model and gives correlations between FEM and NASGRO stress intensity calculations.

Allen, Phillip A.↗

MSC/NASTRAN Stress Analysis of Complete Models Subjected to Random and Quasi-Static Loads

Space payloads, such as those which fly on the Space Shuttle in Spacelab, are designed to withstand dynamic loads which consist of combined acoustic random loads and quasi-static acceleration loads. Methods for computing the payload stresses due to these loads are well known and appear in texts and NASA documents, but typically involve approximations such as the Miles' equation, as well as possible adjustments based on "modal participation factors." Alternatively, an existing capability in MSC/NASTRAN may be used to output exact root mean square [rms] stresses due to the random loads for any specified elements in the Finite Element Model. However, it is time consuming to use this methodology to obtain the rms stresses for the complete structural model and then combine them with the quasi-static loading induced stresses. Special processing was developed as described here to perform the stress analysis of all elements in the model using existing MSC/NASTRAN and MSC/PATRAN and UNIX utilities. Fail-safe and buckling analyses applications are also described.

Hampton, Roy W.↗

Redesign of the mixed-mode bending delamination test to reduce nonlinear effects

The mixed-mode bending (MMB) test uses a lever to apply simultaneously mode I and mode II loading to a split-beam specimen. An iterative analysis that accounts for the geometric nonlinearity of the MMB test was developed. The analysis accurately predicted the measured load-displacement response and the strain energy release rate, G, of an MMB test specimen made of AS4/PEEK. The errors in G when calculated using linear theory were found to be as large as 30 percent in some cases. Because it would be inconvenient to use a nonlinear analysis to analyze MMB data, the MMB apparatus was redesigned to minimize the nonlinearity. With the improved apparatus, loads are applied just above the midplane of the test specimen through a roller attached to the lever. This apparatus was demonstrated by measuring the mixed-mode delamination fracture toughhess of the test specimen. The nonlinearity errors associated with testing this tough composite material were less than +/- 3 percent. The data from the improved MMB apparatus analyzed with a linear analysis were similar to those found with the original apparatus and the nonlinear analysis.

Reeder, James R.↗

Heat load measurements for the PIP-II pHB650 cryomodule

This study presents a brief overview of the 1st and 2nd phases and an in-depth analysis of the 3rd phase heat load testing performed on the pHB650 (prototype High Beta 650 MHz) cryomodule at PIP2IT (PIP-II Injector Test Facility), with a focus on both the results and the methodological advancements that have improved testing efficiency and accuracy. A key challenge identified in the testing campaign is the higher-than-expected heat loads observed in the first PIP-II (Proton Improvement Plan II) prototype cryomodules (pSSR1 and pHB650) tested at PIP2IT. Elevated heat loads are concerning given the fixed capacity of the PIP-II cryoplant that is currently being installed at Fermilab. However, understanding the sources of these elevated heat loads offers a critical opportunity to implement effective heat load mitigations on upcoming PIP-II cryomodules to stay within the available capacity of the PIP-II cryoplant. The study includes a summary of test results, descriptions of measurement procedures, and key observations on parameters directly and indirectly related to heat load measurements. Direct observations include measured heat loads and the effectiveness of JT heat exchanger under varying conditions, while indirect observation analyze factors such as the temperature distribution on the two-phase pipe and relief piping under varying conditions. Thermal acoustic oscillations (TAO) were identified during testing, which was mitigated by replacing the original G10 stem with a stainless steel stem equipped with wipers for the cryomodule cooldown valve. A major innovation during pHB650 Phase 3 testing was the development of an automated Python script to streamline data acquisition, analysis, and reporting of heat load results. This script automatically retrieved data from ACNET (Accelerator Control Network), performed heat load calculations, and generated detailed reports featuring plots and tables. This advancement significantly reduced manual labor and enhanced the thoroughness of data analysis compared to earlier campaigns. The heat load test reports were promptly uploaded to the electronic logbook shortly after each test, enabling rapid feedback and collaboration between the SRF and cryogenic teams. The heat load measurements included various components: HTTS (high-temperature thermal shield), LTTS (low-temperature thermal shield), 2K isothermal and non-isothermal heat loads. Results were recorded both within the cryomodule and between the bayonet can supply and return. Measurements were conducted under different operating conditions such as "standard", "linac", and "simulated dynamic". Additionally, HTTS and LTTS heat loads were calculated in real time, allowing for the tracking of thermal stability and identification of changes during testing, both in steady-state and transient conditions. The results of this testing campaign not only provide valuable insights into the performance of the pHB650 cryomodule but also highlight best practices and lessons learned that will inform future cryomodule testing at PIP2IT. These include adopting automated tools for data analysis, refining real-time measurement capabilities, and emphasizing detailed pre-test planning. The framework established in this campaign aims to set an improved standard for cryomodule testing and heat load reporting in future cryomodule test campaigns.

Porwisiak, D. [Fermilab; Wroclaw Tech. U.]↗

Small-scale yielding analysis of mixed mode plane-strain crack problems

The small-scale yielding analysis of an elastic-plastic body with a line crack under plane-strain conditions subject to combinations of Mode I and II loadings is examined. The analysis of the near-tip field follows the works of Hutchinson and Rice and Rosengren. Dominant singularity solutions governing the asymptotic behavior of the stresses and strains at the crack tip are obtained for the complete range of loadings between Mode I and II. The results of an accurate finite element technique, which imbeds the dominant singularity solutions, directly relates the near-tip behavior to the elastic stress intensity factors K(I) and K(II). Implications of this study to mixed mode fracture mechanics is also discussed, particularly with respect to the direction of crack initiation and the relation of fracture toughness under mixed modes to that in Mode I. Details of the mixed mode plastic zone sizes and shapes are also given.

Shih, C. F.↗

Microbial Tracking-2, a metagenomics analysis of bacteria and fungi onboard the International Space Station

The International Space Station (ISS) is a unique and complex built environment with the ISS surface microbiome originating from crew and cargo or from life support recirculation in an almost entirely closed system. The Microbial Tracking 1 (MT-1) project was the first ISS environmental surface study to report on the metagenome profiles without using whole-genome amplification. The study surveyed the microbial communities from eight surfaces over a 14-month period. The Microbial Tracking 2 (MT-2) project aimed to continue the work of MT-1, sampling an additional four flights from the same locations, over another 14 months. Eight surfaces across the ISS were sampled with sterile wipes and processed upon return to Earth. DNA extracted from the processed samples (and controls) were treated with propidium monoazide (PMA) to detect intact/viable cells or left untreated and to detect the total DNA population (free DNA/compromised cells/intact cells/viable cells). DNA extracted from PMA-treated and untreated samples were analyzed using shotgun metagenomics. Samples were cultured for bacteria and fungi to supplement the above results. Staphylococcus sp. and Malassezia sp. were the most represented bacterial and fungal species, respectively, on the ISS. Overall, the ISS surface microbiome was dominated by organisms associated with the human skin. Multi-dimensional scaling and differential abundance analysis showed significant temporal changes in the microbial population but no spatial differences. The ISS antimicrobial resistance gene profiles were however more stable over time, with no differences over the 5-year span of the MT-1 and MT-2 studies. Twenty-nine antimicrobial resistance genes were detected across all samples, with macrolide/lincosamide/streptogramin resistance being the most widespread. Metagenomic assembled genomes were reconstructed from the dataset, resulting in 82 MAGs. Functional assessment of the collective MAGs showed a propensity for amino acid utilization over carbohydrate metabolism. Co-occurrence analyses showed strong associations between bacterial and fungal genera. Culture analysis showed the microbial load to be on average 3.0 × 10 5 cfu/m 2 . Utilizing various metagenomics analyses and culture methods, we provided a comprehensive analysis of the ISS surface microbiome, showing microbial burden, bacterial and fungal species prevalence, changes in the microbiome, and resistome over time and space, as well as the functional capabilities and microbial interactions of this unique built microbiome. Data from this study may help to inform policies for future space missions to ensure an ISS surface microbiome that promotes astronaut health and spacecraft integrity.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

The effect of Tricresyl-Phosphate (TCP) as an additive on wear of Iron (Fe)

The effect of tricresyl phosphate (TCP) as an antiwear additive in lubricant trimethyol propane triheptanoate (TMPTH) was investigated. The objective was to examine step loading wear by use of surface analysis, wetting, and chemical bonding changes in the lubricant. The investigation consisted of steploading wear studies by a pin or disk tribometer, the effects on wear related to wetting by contact angle and surface tension measurements of various liquid systems, the chemical bonding changes between lubricant and TCP chromatographic analysis, and by determining the reaction between the TCP and metal surfaces through wear scar analysis by Auger emission spectroscopy (AES). The steploading curve for the base fluid alone shows rapid increase of wear rate with load. The steploading curve for the base fluid in presence of 4.25 percent by volume TCP under dry air purge has shown a great reduction of wear rate with all loads studied. It has also been found that the addition of 4.25 percent by volume TCP plus 0.33 percent by volume water to the base lubricant under N2 purge also greatly reduces the wear rate with all loads studied. AES surface analysis reveals a phosphate type wear resistant film, which greatly increases load-bearing capacity, formed on the iron disk. Preliminary chromatographic studies suggest that this film forms either because of ester oxidation or TCP degradation. Wetting studies show direct correlation between the spreading coefficient and the wear rate.

Ghose, Hiren M.↗