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At least 235 records · Page 13

The Lewice Console

Lewice (LEWis ICE accretion program) is software used by literally hundreds of users in the aeronautics community for predicting ice shapes, collections efficiencies, and anti-icing heat requirements for aircraft. LEWICE performs its analysis in minutes on a desktop PC, allowing the user to run several parameter studies for design purposes. The ice shape predictions have been used to assess performance degradation both as an input to a CFD program or experimentally in flight or in a wind tunnel. This information is important to ensure an airplane s safe passage through an icing cloud. Currently, Lewice runs as a DOS program that accepts many different inputs such as cloud conditions, wing shapes, and thermal deicing inputs. Usually, such experimental data is stored in spreadsheets. However, Lewice inputs are text files; therefore, they must be generated by the user. Lewice s outputs (collection efficiency, ice shapes and thicknesses) are also text files; to plot the data, users must generate a spreadsheet with this output. Because all Lewice J/O is in the form of text files, using Lewice can be tricky and time-consuming. Our goal was to improve Lewice s usability by creating a user interface that would automatically generate Lewice input from a spreadsheet and automatically put Lewice output into spreadsheets with charts. Additionally, this user interface would automatically convert units (as Lewice only accepts input in certain units) and offer several output options. I call this program the Lewice Console. The Lewice Console is an easy to use interface for Lewice written in Visual Basic. It allows users to run Lewice given a spreadsheet listing experimental conditions. It automatically generates the input to Lewice, does necessary unit conversions, runs Lewice, and produces a spreadsheet with charts plotting the data. It allows users to import data from previously generated Lewice inputs into a spreadsheet. It also allows users to batch run Lewice on several different inputs to automatically generate multiple output spreadsheets. You can also generate plots of actual data vs. experimental data. These capabilities are just the beginning for the Lewice Console. Lewice is capable of running a full deicing experiment given a geometry and heating apparatus information. However, users find it difficult to run such experiments due to the number of inputs and the difficult input file format. The Lewice Console would simplify experiment generation by allowing the user to interactively draw a geometry, place heating apparatus, and specify information about each part. The input to Lewice would be automatically generated from the experiment the user draws on the screen. The Lewice Console would simplify the experiment building process. Currently, Lewice runs as a DOS program that accepts many different inputs such as

Armstrong, Aaron E.↗

Heat transfer and pressure drop performance of a finned-tube heat exchanger proposed for use in the NASA Lewis Altitude Wind Tunnel

A segment of the heat exchanger proposed for use in the NASA Lewis Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT) facility has been tested under dry and icing conditions. The heat exchanger has the largest pressure drop of any component in the AWT loop. It is therefore critical that its performance be known at all conditions before the final design of the AWT is complete. The heat exchanger segment is tested in the NASA Lewis Icing Research Tunnel (IRT) in order to provide an icing cloud environment similar to what will be encountered in the AWT. Dry heat transfer and pressure drop data are obtained and compared to correlations available in the literature. The effects of icing sprays on heat transfer and pressure drop are also investigated.

Vanfossen, G. J.↗

Laser Sheet Flow Visualization Developed for Lewis' Icing Research Tunnel

A new flow-visualization technique has been developed for use in the NASA Lewis Research Center's Icing Research Tunnel (IRT). This technique uses a sheet of light shining across the wind tunnel to illuminate a mist of water droplets in the air and display any organized flow patterns. Since the IRT already has the special water spray system required for aircraft icing experiments, no special visualization seeding material is required. The system has been used to visualize the changes in tip and leading edge vortices caused by ice accretion. Because the IRT's icing spray is used as part of the visualization technique, changes in the flow patterns about a wing can be observed and measured during the ice accretion process.

Source record↗

Effect of High-Fidelity Ice Accretion Simulations on the Performance of a Full-Scale Airfoil Model

The simulation of ice accretion on a wing or other surface is often required for aerodynamic evaluation, particularly at small scale or low-Reynolds number. While there are commonly accepted practices for ice simulation, there are no established and validated guidelines. The purpose of this article is to report the results of an experimental study establishing a high-fidelity, full-scale, iced-airfoil aerodynamic performance database. This research was conducted as a part of a larger program with the goal of developing subscale aerodynamic simulation methods for iced airfoils. Airfoil performance testing was carried out at the ONERA F1 pressurized wind tunnel using a 72-in. (1828.8-mm) chord NACA 23012 airfoil over a Reynolds number range of 4.5x10(exp 6) to 16.0 10(exp 6) and a Mach number range of 0.10 to 0.28. The high-fidelity, ice-casting simulations had a significant impact on the aerodynamic performance. A spanwise-ridge ice shape resulted in a maximum lift coefficient of 0.56 compared to the clean value of 1.85 at Re = 15.9x10(exp 6) and M = 0.20. Two roughness and streamwise shapes yielded maximum lift values in the range of 1.09 to 1.28, which was a relatively small variation compared to the differences in the ice geometry. The stalling characteristics of the two roughness and one streamwise ice simulation maintained the abrupt leading-edge stall type of the clean NACA 23012 airfoil, despite the significant decrease in maximum lift. Changes in Reynolds and Mach number over the large range tested had little effect on the iced-airfoil performance.

Broeren, Andy P.↗

Aerodynamic Effects of Simulated Ice Accretion on a Generic Transport Model

An experimental research effort was begun to develop a database of airplane aerodynamic characteristics with simulated ice accretion over a large range of incidence and sideslip angles. Wind-tunnel testing was performed at the NASA Langley 12-ft Low-Speed Wind Tunnel using a 3.5 percent scale model of the NASA Langley Generic Transport Model. Aerodynamic data were acquired from a six-component force and moment balance in static-model sweeps from alpha = -5deg to 85deg and beta = -45 deg to 45 deg at a Reynolds number of 0.24 x10(exp 6) and Mach number of 0.06. The 3.5 percent scale GTM was tested in both the clean configuration and with full-span artificial ice shapes attached to the leading edges of the wing, horizontal and vertical tail. Aerodynamic results for the clean airplane configuration compared favorably with similar experiments carried out on a 5.5 percent scale GTM. The addition of the large, glaze-horn type ice shapes did result in an increase in airplane drag coefficient but had little effect on the lift and pitching moment. The lateral-directional characteristics showed mixed results with a small effect of the ice shapes observed in some cases. The flow visualization images revealed the presence and evolution of a spanwise-running vortex on the wing that was the dominant feature of the flowfield for both clean and iced configurations. The lack of ice-induced performance and flowfield effects observed in this effort was likely due to Reynolds number effects for the clean configuration. Estimates of full-scale baseline performance were included in this analysis to illustrate the potential icing effects.

Broeren, Andy P.↗

A Computational Icing Effects Study for a Three-Dimensional Wing: Comparison with Experimental Data and Investigation of Spanwise Variation

Steady-state solutions of the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations were computed using the Colbalt flow solver for a constant-section, rectangular wing based on an extruded two-dimensional glaze ice shape. The one equation Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model was used. The results were compared with data obtained from a recent wind tunnel test. Computed results indicate that the steady RANS solutions do not accurately capture the recirculating region downstream of the ice accretion, even after a mesh refinement. The resulting predicted reattachment is farther downstream than indicated by the experimental data. Additionally, the solutions computed on a relatively coarse baseline mesh had detailed flow characteristics that were different from those computed on the refined mesh or the experimental data. Steady RANS solutions were also computed to investigate the effects of spanwise variation in the ice shape. The spanwise variation was obtained via a bleeding function that merged the ice shape with the clean wing using a sinusoidal spanwise variation. For these configurations, the results predicted for the extruded shape provided conservative estimates for the performance degradation of the wing. Additionally, the spanwise variation in the ice shape and the resulting differences in the flow fields did not significantly change the location of the primary reattachment.

Thompson, D.↗

Performance of two transonic airfoil wind tunnels utilizing limited ventilation

A limited-zone ventilated wall panel was developed for a closed-wall icing tunnel which permitted correct simulation of transonic flow over model rotor airfoil sections with and without ice accretions. Candidate porous panels were tested in the Ohio State University 6- x 12-inch transonic airfoil tunnel and result in essentially interference-free flow, as evidenced by pressure distributions over a NACA 0012 airfoil for Mach numbers up to 0.75. Application to the NRC 12- x 12-inch icing tunnel showed a similar result, which allowed proper transonic flow simulation in that tunnel over its full speed range.

Lee, J. D.↗

The Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT): A unique facility for propulsion system and adverse weather testing

A need has arisen for a new wind tunnel facility with unique capabilities for testing propulsion systems and for conducting research in adverse weather conditions. New propulsion system concepts, new aircraft configurations with an unprecedented degree of propulsion system/aircraft integration, and requirements for aircraft operation in adverse weather dictate the need for a new test facility. Required capabilities include simulation of both altitude pressure and temperature, large size, full subsonic speed range, propulsion system operation, and weather simulation (i.e., icing, heavy rain). A cost effective rehabilitation of the NASA Lewis Research Center's Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT) will provide a facility with all these capabilities.

Chamberlin, R.↗

The Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT) - A unique facility for propulsion system and adverse weather testing

A need has arisen for a new wind tunnel facility with unique capabilities for testing propulsion systems and for conducting research in adverse weather conditions. New propulsion system concepts, new aircraft configurations with an unprecedented degree of propulsion system/aircraft integration, and requirements for aircraft operation in adverse weather dictate the need for a new test facility. Required capabilities include simulation of both altitude pressure and temperature, large size, full subsonic speed range, propulsion system operation, and weather simulation (i.e., icing, heavy rain). A cost effective rehabilitation of the NASA Lewis Research Center's Altitude Wind Tunnel (AWT) will provide a facility with all these capabilities.

Chamberlin, R.↗

Technology developments for laminar boundary layer control on subsonic transport aircraft

The development of laminar flow technology for commercial transport aircraft is discussed and illustrated in a review of studies undertaken in the NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency (ACEE) program since 1976. The early history of laminar flow control (LFC) techniques and natural laminar flow (NLF) airfoil designs is traced, and the aims of ACEE are outlined. The application of slotted structures, composites, and electron beam perforated metals in supercritical LFC airfoils, wing panels, and leading edge systems is examined; wind tunnel and flight test results are summarized; studies of high altitude ice effects are described; and hybrid (LFC/NLF designs are characterized. Drawings and photographs are provided.

Wagner, R. D.↗

Design study of an entry probe spectro-reflectometer

A wind tunnel was built to simulate the rapid movement of an entry probe through the Jupiter atmosphere. Wind speeds range from 1 to 50 meters per second in a closed system. Wind velocity and temperature probes as well as a cryogenically cooled cold finger can be placed in the 6 inch diameter viewing section. The initial testing of the wind tunnel involved running sectional profiles through the observation port of air currents of 0.1 to 3.0 atmosphere. The velocity profile was very uniform throughout the cross section of the experimental port, with the exception of the wall effects. The deposition of cooled volatiles using the wind tunnel was not performed. However, measurements of the deposition of H2O ice on a cryogenically cooled thickness modulator were made under ambient conditions, namely room temperature and pressure. In the Frost Depositon Test Facility, ice deposition was measured at thicknesses of about a half millimeter and frost was produced whose thickness reflectivity could easily be measured by reflectance spectroscopy.

Sill, G. T.↗

AWT Icing Discussion

Icing and severe weather capability are presented for NASA's Altitude Wind Tunnel in both the high and low speed test sections. The objective is to insure that all components are designed to perform with minimum impact on performance and with high reliability. Key problems and components as well as wind tunnel drawings and specifications are addressed in viewgraph format.

Reinmann, John J.↗

Icing-Protection Requirements for Reciprocating-Engine Induction System

Despite the development of relatively ice-free fuel-metering systems, the widespread use of alternate and heated-air intakes, and the use of alcohol for emergency de-icing, icing of aircraft-engine induction systems is a serious problem. Investigations have been made to study and to combat all phases of this icing problem. From these investigations, criterions for safe operation and for design of new induction systems have been established. The results were obtained from laboratory investigations of carburetor-supercharger combinations, wind-tunnel investigations of air scoops, multicylinder-engine studies, and flight investigations. Characteristics of three forms of ice, impact, throttling, and fuel evaporation were studied. The effects of several factors on the icing characteristics were also studied and included: (1) atmospheric conditions, (2) engine and air-scoop configurations, including light-airplane system, (3) type fuel used, and (4) operating variables, such as power condition, use of a manifold pressure regulator, mixture setting, carburetor heat, and water-alcohol injection. In addition, ice-detection methods were investigated and methods of preventing and removing induction-system ice were studied. Recommendations are given for design and operation with regard to induction-system design.

Coles, Willard D↗

Experimental Technique and Assessment for Measuring the Convective Heat Transfer Coefficient from Natural Ice Accretions

A technique was developed to cast frozen ice shapes that had been grown on a metal surface. This technique was applied to a series of ice shapes that were grown in the NASA Lewis Icing Research Tunnel on flat plates. Nine flat plates, 18 inches square, were obtained from which aluminum castings were made that gave good ice shape characterizations. Test strips taken from these plates were outfitted with heat flux gages, such that when placed in a dry wind tunnel, can be used to experimentally map out the convective heat transfer coefficient in the direction of flow from the roughened surfaces. The effects on the heat transfer coefficient for both parallel and accelerating flow will be studied. The smooth plate model verification baseline data as well as one ice roughened test case are presented.

Masiulaniec, K. Cyril↗

Investigation of surface water behavior during glaze ice accretion

A series of experimental investigations that focused on isolating the primary factors that control the behavior of unfrozen surface water during glaze ice accretion were conducted. Detailed microvideo observations were made of glaze ice accretions on 2.54 cm diam cylinders in a closed-loop refrigerated wind tunnel. Distinct zones of surface water behavior were observed; a smooth wet zone in the stagnation region with a uniform water film, a rough zone where surface tension effects caused coalescence of surface water into stationary beads, and a zone where surface water ran back as rivulets. The location of the transition from the smooth to the rough zone was found to migrate towards the stagnation point with time. Comparative tests were conducted to study the effect of the substrate thermal and roughness properties on ice accretion. The importance of surface water behavior was evaluated by the addition of a surface tension reducing agent to the icing tunnel water supply, which significantly altered the accreted glaze ice shape. Measurements were made to determine the contact angle behavior of water droplets on ice. A simple multizone modification to current glaze ice accretion models was proposed to include the observed surface roughness behavior.

Hansman, R. John, Jr.↗

Investing American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funds to Advance Capability, Reliability, and Performance in NASA Wind Tunnels

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Aeronautics Test Program (ATP) is implementing five significant ground-based test facility projects across the nation with funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The projects were selected as the best candidates within the constraints of the ARRA and the strategic plan of ATP. They are a combination of much-needed large scale maintenance, reliability, and system upgrades plus creating new test beds for upcoming research programs. The projects are: 1.) Re-activation of a large compressor to provide a second source for compressed air and vacuum to the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel at the Ames Research Center (ARC) 2.) Addition of high-altitude ice crystal generation at the Glenn Research Center Propulsion Systems Laboratory Test Cell 3, 3.) New refrigeration system and tunnel heat exchanger for the Icing Research Tunnel at the Glenn Research Center, 4.) Technical viability improvements for the National Transonic Facility at the Langley Research Center, and 5.) Modifications to conduct Environmentally Responsible Aviation and Rotorcraft research at the 14 x 22 Subsonic Tunnel at Langley Research Center. The selection rationale, problem statement, and technical solution summary for each project is given here. The benefits and challenges of the ARRA funded projects are discussed. Indirectly, this opportunity provides the advantages of developing experience in NASA's workforce in large projects and maintaining corporate knowledge in that very unique capability. It is envisioned that improved facilities will attract a larger user base and capabilities that are needed for current and future research efforts will offer revenue growth and future operations stability. Several of the chosen projects will maximize wind tunnel reliability and maintainability by using newer, proven technologies in place of older and obsolete equipment and processes. The projects will meet NASA's goal of integrating more efficient, environmentally safer, and less energy consuming hardware and processes into existing tunnel systems. These include Environmental Protection Agency-approved refrigerants, energy efficient motors, and faster, flexible tunnel data systems.

Sydnor, Goerge H.↗

Technology developments for laminar boundary layer control on subsonic transport aircraft

The development of laminar-flow technology for commercial transport aircraft is discussed and illustrated in a review of studies undertaken in the NASA Aircraft Energy Efficiency (ACEE) program since 1976. The early history of laminar-flow-control (LFC) techniques and natural-laminar-flow (NLF) airfoil designs is traced, and the aims of ACEE are outlined. The application of slotted structures, composites, and electron-beam-perforated metals in supercritical LFC airfoils, wing panels, and leading-edge systems is examined; wind-tunnel and flight test results are summarized; studies of high-altitude ice effects are described; and hybrid LFC/NLF designs are characterized. Drawings and photographs are provided.

Wagner, R. D.↗