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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.

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At least 271 records · Page 15

Release-rate calorimetry of multilayered materials for aircraft seats

Multilayered samples of contemporary and improved fire-resistant aircraft seat materials were evaluated for their rates of heat release and smoke generation. Top layers with glass-fiber block cushion were evaluated to determine which materials, based on their minimum contributions to the total heat release of the multilayered assembly, may be added or deleted. The smoke and heat release rates of multilayered seat materials were then measured at heat fluxes of 1.5 and 3.5 W/cm2. Abrasion tests were conducted on the decorative fabric covering and slip sheet to ascertain service life and compatibility of layers

Fewell, L. L.↗

Measuring Cyclic-Stress Properties of Pressure Vessels

Simulated-service cycle differs from conventional proof-test cycle in that specimen is subjected to sine-wave variation of stress instead of prolonged steady stress. Simulated-service testing is performed at low and high temperatures as well as at room temperatures. (Flaws initiated by severe stresses of proof testing can later develop into leaks during service, thus effectively reducing useful service life.) Method may be useful for commercial thin-wall vessels.

Fiftal, C. F.↗

SPS Energy Conversion Power Management Workshop

Energy technology concerning photovoltaic conversion, solar thermal conversion systems, and electrical power distribution processing is discussed. The manufacturing processes involving solar cells and solar array production are summarized. Resource issues concerning gallium arsenides and silicon alternatives are reported. Collector structures for solar construction are described and estimates in their service life, failure rates, and capabilities are presented. Theories of advanced thermal power cycles are summarized. Power distribution system configurations and processing components are presented.

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Orbit Transfer Vehicle (OTV) advanced expander cycle engine point design study. Task 7: Engine data summary

A performance optimized engine system design for a man-rated advanced LOX/hydrogen expander cycle engine was investigated. The data are presented in tables, figures, and drawings. The following categories of data for the advanced expander cycle engine are presented: engine operating specification and pressure schedule; engine system layout drawing; major component layout drawings, including thrust chamber and nozzle, extendible nozzle actuating mechanism and seal, LOX turbopump, LOX boost pump, hydrogen turbopump, hydrogen boost pump, and propellant control valves; engine performance and service life prediction; engine weight; and engine envelope. The data represent updates based upon current results from the design and analyses tasks performed under contract. Futher iterations in the designs and data can be expected as the advanced expander cycle engine design matures.

Christensen, K. L.↗

High efficiency klystron for the SPS application

The enhancement of klystron efficiency through the use of collector depression, that is by recovering energy from the spent electron beam after microwave amplification, was investigated. Design considerations included noise, harmonics, cooling, and service life. The mod anode, to be employed for beam control, and the depressed collector, used in spent electron beam energy recovery, are described.

Larue, A. D.↗

Nickel hydrogen cell tests

Some parametric tests followed by cycling tests are described for the characterization of the service life of nickel hydrogen cells. Three cells were automatically cycled in simulated low Earth orbit in 35 minute discharge, 55 minute charge, with charging voltage limited, temperature compensated. The cells were mounted in a fixture that conducts heat to an aluminum baseplate. The baseplate in turn, is bounded in a temperature controlled bath to remove the heat from the mounted fixture. One cell was tested with a zircar separator, which failed after 2473 cyles. Two other cells were tested one with a zircar separator; the other with asbestos. More than 400 cycles were achieved.

Mueller, V. C.↗

An antenna fine pointing mechanism

SOFA, a device designed for the highly accurate 2 axis pointing of antenna or any feature installed on a spacecraft is described. The major characteristic of this system is complete freedom from friction and wear out, resulting in numerous advantages, such as outstanding precision, virtually endless service life, high simplicity, and reliability. The sizing method is described and performances are analyzed. The results from analogue simulations are presented. A functional model of the electrical and mechanical parts was built and subjected to on ground tests using a 2 axis platform simulating the spacecraft's motions. The results obtained are thoroughly in keeping with the predictions and simulations. Various possible applications of the SOFA system are mentioned.

Hubert, B.↗

Contamination control in hybrid microcircuit modules

The influence of chemical and particulate contamination upon the reliability and service life of hybrid microelectronic systems is documented. Several coating systems used include the parylene and Dow Corning silicone (DC90-711). These passivating coatings have potential for decreasing the degradation caused by particulate contaminants in hybrid systems as well as the possible deleterious effect of trapping chemical contaminants which have long term degrading influences upon the performance of the system. The reliability of a representative hybrid microcircuit is enhanced by the coating process.

Kinser, D. L.↗

Light, Serviceable Insulation Blanket

Lightweight insulation blanket with aluminized, reinforced polyester facing resists crushing and weighs less than previous insulation blankets with textured stainless steel facing. New hook-and loop fasteners facilitate installation and removal. Useful in vehicle construction and other application in which low weight, easy removability for repairs, and long service life are important.

Swirsley, A. J.↗

Electric power - Looking at regenerative systems

Photovoltaic solar array technology dominates NASA space station planning for the late 1980s, although the reduction of fabrication costs and the extension of service life for such arrays remain essential goals for research and development. Attention is given to concentrator arrays, in which highly reflective surfaces concentrate solar energy onto the solar cells. Two types of concentrator arrays are under consideration: one with a low geometric concentration ratio which after reflector losses can produce about 5 suns at the cell surface, and the other with a Cassegrainian concentrator that produces a flux level of 100 suns on the cell surface. Costs are reduced from the $300/W for planar arrays to $250/W and as little as $100/W, respectively, in 1982 dollars. The storage of electrical energy by means of novel battery systems is also considered.

Miller, J. L.↗

Countersink Drill

Efficient drill design for countersinking or metal drilling uses only two flutes instead of three and made of carbide instead of "high-speed" steel. Tool performance and service life increased.

Hernandez, R. J.↗

High pressure oxygen turbopump bearing cage stability analyses

The low service life of the high pressure oxygen turbopump (HPOTP) bearings used in the space shuttle main engine was examined by use of the Battelle "BASDAP' bearing computer stability model. The dynamic instability of the bearing cage resulted in excessive wear and eventual failure of the unit. By maintaining a cage/race clearance of no more than 0.25 millimeters (0.010 inches), ball/pocket clearance of no less than 0.54 millimeters (0.025 inches), dynamic balancing of the cages, and maintaining adequate lubricant films between the balls and races, cage instability and subsequent bearing degradation can be reduced.

Merriman, T. L.↗

Module degradation catalyzed by metal-encapsulation reactions

Four major properties are considered to be relevant in determining service life of a photovoltaic module: (1) Mechanical: creep resistance, modulus, tensile strength; (2) Optical: integrated transmission at 0.4 to 1.1 m wavelength; (3) Chemical: inertness with respect to metals and other components, retention of stabilizers, etc. and (4) Electrical; maintaining effective isolation of conductive components. These properties were measured after exposing polymer specimens to three types of accelerated stress: thermal, ultraviolet radiation and metal catalysts. These conditions give rise to a large number of complex interrelated free-radical reactions that result in the deterioration of polymeric materials.

Gallagher, B. D.↗

Bearing tester data compilation, analysis and reporting and bearing math modeling, volume 1

Thermal and mechanical models of high speed angular contact ball bearings operating in LOX and LN2 were developed and verified with limited test data in an effort to further understand the parameters that determine or effect the SSME turbopump bearing operational characteristics and service life. The SHABERTH bearing analysis program which was adapted to evaluate shaft bearing systems in cryogenics is not capable of accommodating varying thermal properties and two phase flow. A bearing model with this capability was developed using the SINDA thermal analyzer. Iteration between the SHABERTH and the SINDA models enable the establishment of preliminary bounds for stable operation in LN2. These limits were established in terms of fluid flow, fluid inlet temperature, and axial load for a shaft speed of 30,000 RPM.

Marshall, D. D.↗

Design and selection of bypass diodes

Topics concerning the design and use of bypass diodes are investigated. Energy output, service life, safety, cell mounting approach, thermal capability, and cost analysis are also considered.

Shepard, N. F., Jr.↗

Foam Insulation for Cryogenic Flowlines

Welded stainless-steel vacuum jackets on cryogenic ducts replaced by plastic foam-insulation jackets that weigh 12 percent less. Foam insulation has 85 percent of insulating ability of stainless-steel jacketing enclosing vacuum of 10 microns of mercury. Foam insulation easier to install than vacuum jacket. Moreover, foam less sensitive to damage and requires minimal maintenance. Resists vibration and expected to have service life of at least 10 years.

Sonju, T. R.↗

Challenges in the development of the orbiter atmosphere revitalization subsystem

The space shuttle orbiter atmospheric revitalization subsystem provides thermal and contaminant control as well as total- and oxygen partial-pressure control of the environment within the orbiter crew cabin. Challenges that occurred during the development of this subsystem for the space shuttle orbiter are described. The design of the rotating hardware elements of the system (pumps, fans, etc.) required significant development to meet the requirements of long service life, maintainability, and high cycle-fatigue life. As a result, a stringent development program, particularly in the areas of bearing life and heat dissipation, was required. Another area requiring significant development was cabin humidity control and condensate collection.

Prince, R. N.↗

Bearings working group

The service life of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) turbomachinery bearings was a predominant factor in engine durability and maintenance problems. Recent data has indicated that bearing life is about one order of magnitude lower than the goal of seven and one-half hours particularly those in the High Pressure Oxidizer Turbopump (HPOTP). Bearing technology, primarily cryogenic turbomachinery bearing technology, is expanded by exploring the life and performance effects of design changes; design concept changes; materials changes; manufacturing technique changes; and lubrication system changes. Each variation is assessed against the current bearing design in full scale cryogenic tests.

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