Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “Injection testing”

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 1,729 records · Page 96

Simultaneous feedback control of plasma rotation and stored energy on NSTX-U using neoclassical toroidal viscosity and neutral beam injection

In this study, a model-based feedback system is presented enabling the simultaneous control of the stored energy through β n and the toroidal rotation profile of the plasma in National Spherical Torus eXperiment Upgrade device. Actuation is obtained using the momentum from six injected neutral beams and the neoclassical toroidal viscosity generated by applying three-dimensional magnetic fields. Based on a model of the momentum diffusion and torque balance, a feedback controller is designed and tested in closed-loop simulations using TRANSP, a time dependent transport analysis code, in predictive mode. Promising results for the ongoing experimental implementation of controllers are obtained.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Model predictive control of KSTAR equilibrium parameters enabled by TRANSP

Due to the complex behavior of tokamak plasmas and the importance of optimizing performance while avoiding instabilities and machine limits, plasma control algorithms are becoming increasingly dependent on sophisticated model-based control approaches. It is anticipated that the use of integrated modeling codes in the model-based control design process will reduce the amount of experimental time needed to implement new control algorithms by facilitating development of control-oriented models and enabling higher-fidelity closed-loop simulations. In this work, a reduced model is developed from a series of TRANSP simulations and is used to develop a model predictive control (MPC) algorithm for controlling important equilibrium parameters in KSTAR [1] discharges. The control algorithm uses the KSTAR neutral beam injection system and the target plasma current and plasma boundary as actuators, and optimizes the plasma stored energy, loop voltage, and internal inductance while avoiding constraints that could lead to disruptions. Higher fidelity testing of the control algorithm is performed using a flexible framework for enabling external processes to actively control plasma parameters in TRANSP simulations. Furthermore, closed-loop simulations demonstrate the ability of the control algorithm to respond to disturbances in density and confinement, handle actuator failures, and move the discharge to high non-inductive fraction conditions.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Atacama Cosmology Telescope: Modeling the gas thermodynamics in BOSS CMASS galaxies from kinematic and thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich measurements

The thermal and kinematic Sunyaev-Zel'dovich effects (tSZ, kSZ) probe the thermodynamic properties of the circumgalactic and intracluster medium (CGM and ICM) of galaxies, groups, and clusters, since they are proportional, respectively, to the integrated electron pressure and momentum along the line-of-sight. We present constraints on the gas thermodynamics of CMASS galaxies in the Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) using new measurements of the kSZ and tSZ signals obtained in a companion paper. Combining kSZ and tSZ measurements, we measure within our model the amplitude of energy injection $\epsilon M_\star c^2$, where $M_\star$ is the stellar mass, to be $\epsilon=(40\pm9)\times10^{-6}$, and the amplitude of the non-thermal pressure profile to be $\alpha_{\rm Nth}<0.2$ (2$\sigma$), indicating that less than 20% of the total pressure within the virial radius is due to a non-thermal component. We estimate the effects of including baryons in the modeling of weak-lensing galaxy cross-correlation measurements using the best fit density profile from the kSZ measurement. Our estimate reduces the difference between the original theoretical model and the weak-lensing galaxy cross-correlation measurements in arXiv:1611.08606 by half, but does not fully reconcile it. Comparing the kSZ and tSZ measurements to cosmological simulations, we find that they under predict the CGM pressure and to a lesser extent the CGM density at larger radii. This suggests that the energy injected via feedback models in the simulations that we compared against does not sufficiently heat the gas at these radii. We do not find significant disagreement at smaller radii. These measurements provide novel tests of current and future simulations. Here, this work demonstrates the power of joint, high signal-to-noise kSZ and tSZ observations, upon which future cross-correlation studies will improve.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Characterization of Most Promising Sequestration Formations in the Rocky Mountain Region

The project Characterization of Most Promising Sequestration Formations in the Rocky Mountain Region is one of 9 site characterization projects that were implemented as part of ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act). Data from this project was used to improve resolution of data in NATCARB in the area of study. Data related to this study has already been incorporated in NATCARB Atlas. The Rocky Mountain Carbon Capture and Storage (RMCCS) project investigated multiple geologic formations and characterized a local site on the Colorado Plateau for future CCS opportunities. The RMCCS project focused on the Cretaceous Dakota, Jurassic Entrada, and Pennsylvanian Weber Sandstones, the three largest regional formations. All formations in this project are potential CO2 storage resources for future power plants, natural gas processing plants, cement plants, and oil shale development projects. The area adjacent to Craig, Colorado, (Sand Wash Basin) was the area selected for detailed geologic characterization on the RMCCS project. The basin was selected in part because the geology can be extrapolated to other sites on the Colorado Plateau. Field mapping and seismic surveys were conducted to identify and evaluate the basin's structural configuration. A 9,745-foot deep characterization well was drilled to collect 131 feet of core and a suite of geophysical well log data. Petrophysical tests on samples of core were used to calibrate geophysical log data, which can be used to obtain storage resource estimates and evaluate associated uncertainty as well as simulate the hydrologic behavior of injected CO2. A detailed analysis of the primary formations (Dakota, Entrada and Weber sandstones) yielded a more accurate CO2 storage resource assessment for these formations within the Colorado Plateau; RMCCS estimates indicate a total CO2 storage resource of more than 38,000 million metric tons. The characterization of the Sand Wash Basin (2-D seismic surveys, multiple well logs and lithological, petrophysical and geochemical analyses) allowed for a detailed 3-D model to be constructed. The model served as the framework for analyses ranging from CO2 storage resource, injectivity, and subsurface flow to uncertainty estimates to evaluation of risk.

2-D seismic↗

A 100 kW 1.3 GHz Magnetron System with Amplitude and Phase Control

Calabazas Creek Research, Inc., Fermilab, and Communications & Power Industries, LLC, developed a 100 kW peak, 10 kW average, 1.3 GHz, magnetron-based, RF system for driving accelerators. Efficiency varied between 81% and 87%. Phase locking uses a novel approach that provides fast amplitude and phase control when coupled into a superconducting accelerator cavity [1]. The system was successfully tested at Fermilab and produced 100 kW in 1.5 ms pulses at a repetition rate of 2 pps. A locking bandwidth of 0.9 MHz was achieved with a drive signal of 269 W injected through a 4 port circulator. The phase locking signal was 25 dB below the magnetron output power. The spectrum of the phase locked magnetron was suitable for driving accelerator cavities. Phase modulation was demonstrated to 50 kHz (the limit of the available driver source). The average power was limited by available conditioning time. Scaling indicates 42 kW of average power should be achievable. Estimated cost is less than $1/Watt of delivered RF power, exclusive of power supplies or modulators. System design and performance measurements will be presented.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Emissions Reduction Technology Program

Combustor concepts having the potential for significantly lower emissions levels were investigated. The combustor emissions reduction was measured in an engine test. Emission characteristics common to all engine classes are shown. Multiple-burning zone combustors, specifically the double-annular and swirl-can combustors were studied. Airblast and air-assist fuel injection techniques were evaluated for emissions control potential. The combustor sceening and refining phases are summarized.

Jones, R. E.↗

Hypersonic propulsion

Research on hydrogen fueled scramjet engines for hypersonic flight is reviewed. Component developments, computational methods, and preliminary ground tests of subscale scramjet engine modules at Mach 4 and 7 are emphasized. Airframe integration, structures, and flow diagnostics are also discussed. It is shown that mixed-mode perpendicular and parallel fuel injection controls heat release over a wide Mach range and the fixed geometry inlet gives good performance over a wide range of Mach numbers.

Beach, H. L., Jr.↗

Preliminary Component Integration Utilizing Rapid Prototyping Techniques

One of the most costly errors committed during the development of an element to be used in the space industry is the lack of communication between design and manufacturing engineers. A very important tool that should be utilized in the development stages by both design and manufacturing disciplines is rapid prototyping. Communication levels are intensified with the injection of functional models that are generated from a drawing. At the Marshall Space Flight Center, this discipline is utilized on a more frequent basis as a manner by which hardware may be tested for design and material compatibility.

Cooper, K.↗

Operational Experience with Autonomous Star Trackers on ESA Interplanetary Spacecraft

Mars Express (MEX), Rosetta and Venus Express (VEX) are ESA interplanetary spacecrafts (S/C) launched in June 2003, March 2004 and November 2005, respectively. Mars Express was injected into Mars orbit end of 2003 with routine operations starting in spring 2004. Rosetta is since launch on its way to rendezvous comet Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014. It has completed several test and commissioning activities and is performing several planetary swingbys (Earth in spring 2005, Mars in spring 2007, Earth in autumn 2007 and again two years later). Venus Express has also started routine operations since the completion of the Venus orbit insertion maneuver sequence beginning of May 2006. All three S/C are three axes stabilized with a similar attitude and orbit control system (AOCS). The attitude is estimated on board using star and rate sensors and controlled using four reaction wheels. A bipropellant reaction control system with 10N thrusters serves for wheel off loadings and attitude control in safe mode. Mars Express and Venus Express have an additional 400N engine for the planetary orbit insertion. Nominal Earth communication is accomplished through a high gain antenna. All three S/C are equipped with a redundant set of autonomous star trackers (STR) which are based on almost the same hardware. The STR software is especially adapted for the respective mission. This paper addresses several topics related to the experience gained with the STR operations on board the three S/C so far.

Lauer, Mathias↗

Effect of Surface Nonequilibrium Thermochemistry in Simulation of Carbon Based Ablators

This study demonstrates that coupling of a material thermal response code and a flow solver using finite-rate gas/surface interaction model provides time-accurate solutions for multidimensional ablation of carbon based charring ablators. The material thermal response code used in this study is the Two-dimensional Implicit Thermal Response and Ablation Program (TITAN), which predicts charring material thermal response and shape change on hypersonic space vehicles. Its governing equations include total energy balance, pyrolysis gas momentum conservation, and a three-component decomposition model. The flow code solves the reacting Navier-Stokes equations using Data Parallel Line Relaxation (DPLR) method. Loose coupling between material response and flow codes is performed by solving the surface mass balance in DPLR and the surface energy balance in TITAN. Thus, the material surface recession is predicted by finite-rate gas/surface interaction boundary conditions implemented in DPLR, and the surface temperature and pyrolysis gas injection rate are computed in TITAN. Two sets of gas/surface interaction chemistry between air and carbon surface developed by Park and Zhluktov, respectively, are studied. Coupled fluid-material response analyses of stagnation tests conducted in NASA Ames Research Center arc-jet facilities are considered. The ablating material used in these arc-jet tests was a Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator (PICA). Computational predictions of in-depth material thermal response and surface recession are compared with the experimental measurements for stagnation cold wall heat flux ranging from 107 to 1100 Watts per square centimeter.

Chen, Yih-Kang↗

Realistic Covariance Generation for the GPM Spacecraft

A covariance realism process for NASA's Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) spacecraft is detailed. The GPM spacecraft is in a low earth orbit, and performs collision avoidance maneuvers few times a year. Currently GPM is below the International Space Station (ISS). So, in addition to cataloged debris objects, GPM must contend with smallsat/cubesat objects that are deployed from the ISS. Both operational scenarios require complete knowledge of the expected GPM prediction errors as a function of time. In this study, we present a method for generating realistic predicted covariance that uses linear propagation of the covariance with the addition of process noise. Further analyses are presented for the process noise ''tuning'' that generates an inflation factor based on the observed error statistics of the predictive satellite trajectories when compared to the definitive ones. Different tuning strategies are considered and compared via a Goodness-of-Fit testing for the Gaussian properties of the scaled covariance. SpaceNav's realistic covariance generation approach takes into account the contribution of predicted maneuver errors in the increased propagation uncertainty. Corresponding maneuver uncertainty is injected into the state uncertainty, and is used within the collision avoidance process to determine the collision risk for close approach events that follow a maneuver. This is a critical step in the maneuver planning process that provides the satellite operator with an accurate quantification of the collision probability for planned maneuvers. Using this information, an informed decision can be made to proceed with a maneuver if the collision risk is acceptable. This approach is validated by Monte-Carlo simulations and results are presented.

spacecraft uncertainty propagation↗

Development of Solenoid-Driven and Pneumatic Punches for Launching High- Z Cryogenic Pellets for Tokamak Disruption Mitigation Experiments

Mitigation of disruption events in future high energy density tokamaks is essential for machine longevity. The creation of runaway electrons, large electromagnetic forces, and high localized heat loads during a disruption can be devastating to machine components. Shattered pellet injection is currently the most effective method of disruption mitigation. Injection of cryogenically solidified deuterium, neon, or argon (or mixtures thereof) have been shown to efficiently radiate thermal energy of the plasma so that the heat load is distributed on the walls of the machine. Pellets are formed by desublimating gas in the barrel of a pipe gun and fired using a pulse of high-pressure light gas. Current gas gun designs cannot reach sufficient pressure to dislodge pure neon and argon pellets at low temperatures because the material strength is too high. Pellet temperatures must be kept low (to well below the triple-point temperature of the material) to ensure minimal gas flow into the machine due to vapor pressure of the pellet. A gas-driven punch device has been designed and tested to dislodge pure neon or argon pellets. The breakaway strength of a pellet is proportional to the surface area of the pellet in contact with the inner diameter of the barrel. As pellets get larger in diameter, the amount of force needed to dislodge them increases. To better understand the mechanics behind how a punch dislodges a pellet, a solenoid-operated punch was designed so that kinetic energy of the punch, when striking a pellet, can be varied by changing input current to the solenoid. This solenoid punch will be used to determine kinetic energy versus pellet surface area threshold for breakaway. These data will be used to design mechanical punches for use in a high-field tokamak environment. Furthermore, this paper outlines the modeling, design, experimental testing, and results of the punch development activities.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Capturing the Impact of Fuel Octane Number on Modern Gasoline Vehicles with Octane Indices

The need for high efficiency automotive engines has led to more complex air handling and fuel injection systems, higher compression ratios, more advanced combustion and aftertreatment systems, and the use of fuels with higher octane ratings. Higher octane number fuels have a lower propensity to knock. This work studies the influence of changing fuel octane rating on two modern production gasoline vehicles, one with a naturally aspirated, port injected engine and the other with a turbocharged, direct injected engine, using fuels with four different octane number grades (with 85, 87, 91, and 93 anti-knock indices) and operated over a variety of driving cycles and temperature conditions. Unlike previous studies, this effort develops and demonstrates a methodology that isolates fuel effects on fuel consumption and provides a clear view of the octane impact on existing vehicles. While fuel octane rating can also impact factors such as the allowable compression ratio and gear shifting strategies, this study examines fuel consumption changes that are solely attributable to octane rating on production vehicles. The developed approach uses results from drive cycle as well as steady-state tests along with response surface modeling to predict the engine combustion phasing and changes in efficiency for each fuel relative to the baseline 87 anti-knock index (AKI) fuel. The methodology is then used to capture the role of fuel octane rating on powertrain efficiency over Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification drive cycles and demonstrate the variation of that impact as a function of powertrain output power. Based on the vehicles and fuels tested in this study, the metrics indicate that the effects of octane on efficiency are limited to a portion of the operating modes represented in the driving cycles used for vehicle certification. In addition, an octane potential benefit index (OPBI) suggests that the vehicle with the turbocharged, direct injected engine has a greater potential to benefit from higher octane number fuel compared to the naturally aspirated, port injected engine and proposes a way to quantify this impact for production vehicles.

Jehlik, Forrest↗

Stability of Pharmaceuticals in Space

Stability testing is a tool used to access shelf life and effects of storage conditions for pharmaceutical formulations. Early research from the International Space Station (ISS) revealed that some medications may have degraded while in space. This potential loss of medication efficacy would be very dangerous to Crew health. The aim of this research project, Stability of Pharmacotherapeutic Compounds, is to study how the stability of pharmaceutical compounds is affected by environmental conditions in space. Four identical pharmaceutical payload kits containing medications in different dosage forms (liquid for injection, tablet, capsule, ointment and suppository) were transported to the ISS aboard a Space Shuttle. One of the four kits was stored on that Shuttle and the other three were stored on the ISS for return to Earth at various time intervals aboard a pre-designated Shuttle flight. The Pharmacotherapeutics laboratory used stability test as defined by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), to access the degree of degradation to the Payload kit medications that may have occurred during space flight. Once these medications returned, the results of stability test performed on them were compared to those from the matching ground controls stored on Earth. Analyses of the results obtained from physical and chemical stability assessments on these payload medications will provide researchers additional tools to promote safe and efficacious medications for space exploration.

Nguyen, Y-Uyen↗

Bayesian GAN-Based False Data Injection Attack Detection in Active Distribution Grids With DERs

Advancements in information and communication technologies have revolutionized monitoring and control capabilities within smart grids. However, it also brings new vulnerabilities to data acquisition systems and state estimation functions, which attackers can subtly tamper with the measurement data through compromising the communication network. Moreover, the high penetration of renewable energy sources with the inherited characteristics of uncertainty and variability further complicates the design of effective intrusion detection systems. In this paper, a Bayesian deep learning-based approach is developed to detect cyber attacks and maintain the security of smart grids. Our method specifically addresses the prevalent issue of imbalanced data in real power systems, which arises from the predominance of normal system operations over compromised or attacked states. Employing a novel Bayesian GAN-based technique, our approach successfully discriminates between secure and compromised measurement data, even in scenarios with significant data imbalance. Furthermore, the proposed method accommodates various practical application factors, ensuring accurate intrusion detection despite the presence of measurement noise. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed detection mechanism are validated by testing on IEEE 13-node and 123-node test systems. Simulation results and comparisons with literature methods demonstrate the superiority of proposed cybersecurity solutions.

Bayesian GAN↗

A machine learning model for predicting the minimum miscibility pressure of CO 2 and crude oil system based on a support vector machine algorithm approach

CO 2 enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is a potential way for carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS). Though, the effect of CO 2 injection is greatly influenced by the reservoir conditions. Typically, Minimum miscible pressure (MMP) is selected as one of the key parameters for the screening and evaluation of prospective CO 2 flooding. Conventional slim tube test is both accurate and widely accepted but it is inefficient. Existing empirical formulas for MMPs are easy to be used but have been proved inaccurate and unreliable. Machine learning-based methods have great advantages in predicting MMP. However, only predication accuracy is discussed for most models without the screening of the main control factors and further validation of the model reliability. In this paper, a new prediction model based on support vector machine (SVM) was developed for pure/impure CO 2 and crude oil system. This study was based on 147 sets of MMP data from the literature with full information on reservoir temperature, oil composition and gas composition. The main control factors were screened by several statistical methods. Unlike the conventional prediction models that verified by only prediction accuracy, learning curve and single factor control variable analysis are further validated to obtain the optimum model.

02 PETROLEUM↗

Modeling, testing, and mitigation of electromagnetic pulse on PV systems

Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) poses a significant threat to the normal operation of power systems, especially with the increasing penetration of renewable energy. Without adequate protection, EMP can severely damage equipment or result in circuit breakdowns or short circuits. Solar photovoltaic (PV) facilities are particularly susceptible to EMP since PV systems are outdoors and exposed to EMP radiation. To assess and mitigate this threat, this paper summarizes various models and tests used to study the effects of EMP on PV systems, assesses the nature of the threat, and identifies measures to mitigate it. The paper provides a comprehensive review by categorizing analytical methods based on their pros and cons, introducing and describing EMP-related events, and providing a taxonomy of analytical methods for studying EMP. This paper compares the processes of modeling, testing, and mitigating EMP at both the component and system levels of PV systems. Furthermore, it also presents a case study that reveals the vulnerability of solar inverters to EMP using the pulse current injection method. Finally, the paper discusses some of the remaining challenges that should be considered in future solar PV system design and deployment.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

An atypical lipoteichoic acid from Clostridium perfringens elicits a broadly cross-reactive and protective immune response

Clostridium perfringens is a leading cause of food-poisoning and causes avian necrotic enteritis, posing a significant problem to both the poultry industry and human health. No effective vaccine against C. perfringens is currently available. Using an antiserum screen of mutants generated from a C. perfringens transposon-mutant library, here we identified an immunoreactive antigen that was lost in a putative glycosyltransferase mutant, suggesting that this antigen is likely a glycoconjugate. Following injection of formalin-fixed whole cells of C. perfringens HN13 (a laboratory strain) and JGS4143 (chicken isolate) intramuscularly into chickens, the HN13-derived antiserum was cross-reactive in immunoblots with all tested 32 field isolates, whereas only 5 of 32 isolates were recognized by JGS4143-derived antiserum. The immunoreactive antigens from both HN13 and JGS4143 were isolated, and structural analysis by MALDI-TOF-MS, GC-MS, and 2D NMR revealed that both were atypical lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) with poly-(β1→4)-ManNAc backbones substituted with phosphoethanolamine. However, although the ManNAc residues in JGS4143 LTA were phosphoethanolamine-modified, a few of these residues were instead modified with phosphoglycerol in the HN13 LTA. The JGS4143 LTA also had a terminal ribose and ManNAc instead of ManN in the core region, suggesting that these differences may contribute to the broadly cross-reactive response elicited by HN13. In a passive-protection chicken experiment, oral challenge with C. perfringens JGS4143 lead to 22% survival, whereas co-gavage with JGS4143 and α-HN13 antiserum resulted in 89% survival. This serum also induced bacterial killing in opsonophagocytosis assays, suggesting that HN13 LTA is an attractive target for future vaccine-development studies.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗