Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Maram, J. M..
Sensor does not perturb flow and immune to cavitation. Reflected microwave signal is amplitude-modulated by passing reflective facets of nut on rotating shaft. Modulation frequency measured to find rotational speed. Device measures rotational speed of turbopump without obstructing flow.
Because of the flow environment associated with the SSME powerhead pressure (3000 psia), temperature (1800 R), and mechanical complexity and the high vibration test stand environment, detailed flow measurements are difficult to make. The feasibility of using laser anemometry techniques to map velocity flow fields in an SSME powerhead is studied. In the study three engine powerhead component flow environments: (1) the high pressure fuel turbopump preburner, (2) the fuel turbopump turbine rotor and stator region, and (3) the 180 deg turnaround duct - are being considered. Flow parameters measured by the anemometry techniques are time averaged values of the velocity magnitude and flow direction, turbulence intensity, velocity component correlation, integral time scale, and turbulence spectrum.