Dettling, J. R. | Engineering Papers

NASA NTRS1979

Retractable environmental seal

A retractable environmental seal for use in sealing the opening of the exit cone for a rocket nozzle is described. A diaphragm-like cover having a central region adapted to be seated in sealing relation with the periphery of the opening is discussed. Radially extended failure zones for facilitating a pressure-induced rupture of the cover, and a plurality of angularly spaced tension springs connected with the peripheral portion of the cover are characterized.

Dettling, J. R.↗

NASA NTRS1978

A unique nozzle cover for the Shuttle booster separation motors

The stringent requirements imposed upon the Shuttle booster separation system led to the development of two unique nozzle cover concepts with potential applications in other space propulsion systems. Major requirements were to (1) protect the booster separation motors (BSMs) from the ascent aerothermal environment; (2) provide a humidity seal for the BSM during storage and readiness on the launch pad; (3) open completely during the ignition transient; and (4) produce no debris during ascent, separation, and booster reentry. The nozzle cover concepts included (1) a frangible reinforced elastomeric cover with a retraction mechanism to remove the cover sections away from the plume, and (2) a stainless steel cover hinged by a plastically deforming torsion pin.

Dettling, J. R.↗