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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 37 records · Page 2
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2024

Exploring the Feasibility of INCONEL® ALLOY 740H® for Power Plant Headers: Integrating Machine Learning with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

This keynote presentation explores the behavior of headers—essential components of pipeline systems—using ANSYS simulation software and machine learning techniques. The study aims to predict the thermal and mechanical performance of headers under diverse conditions through both steady-state and transient simulations. We investigate critical parameters such as heat transfer coefficient, fluid velocity, and temperature to optimize header design. Conducted as part of a DOE project led by NCAT in collaboration with UNC Charlotte, this research encompasses multiple key topics. The initial section focuses on the behavior of header systems under steady-state conditions using ANSYS simulation. It underscores the importance of headers in industrial infrastructure, especially in the energy sector, and examines the implications of material selection and flow direction on heat transfer dynamics. Methodologically, we employ Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis through ANSYS, detailing the development of models, material properties, geometry specifications, boundary conditions, and meshing strategies. Our simulations explore various operational parameters, including temperature and mass flow rates, crucial for predicting heat transfer coefficients and enhancing header design. Results from the study include parametric investigations into mesh sensitivity, viscosity model evaluations, and the effects of heat transfer locations, all validated against theoretical calculations. We conclude with insights on mesh optimization, the suitability of viscosity models, and recommendations for future research aimed at improving header system efficiency and sustainability in industrial applications.

20 FOSSIL-FUELED POWER PLANTS↗
NASA NTRS1988

A Study of Flow Separation in Transonic Flow Using Inviscid and Viscous Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Schemes

A comparison of flow separation in transonic flows is made using various computational schemes which solve the Euler and the Navier-Stokes equations of fluid mechanics. The flows examined are computed using several simple two-dimensional configurations including a backward facing step and a bump in a channel. Comparison of the results obtained using shock fitting and flux vector splitting methods are presented and the results obtained using the Euler codes are compared to results on the same configurations using a code which solves the Navier-Stokes equations.

Rhodes, J. A.↗
NASA NTRS2021

Boundary and Initial Condition Issues for Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Modeling and Simulation (Mod-Sim)

For many important classes of Mod-Sim problems, even quantum computing will not enable accurate predictions/computation vis-à-vis the real world due to boundary/initial condition shortfalls in terms of both range of parameters and requisite amplitudes/coverage. The Mod-Sim community needs to consider going forward the knowability of initial and boundary conditions.

Dennis M. Bushnell↗
NASA NTRS2007

A Parametric Geometry Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Study Utilizing Design of Experiments (DOE)

Design of Experiments (DOE) was applied to the LAS geometric parameter study to efficiently identify and rank primary contributors to integrated drag over the vehicles ascent trajectory in an order of magnitude fewer CFD configurations thereby reducing computational resources and solution time. SME s were able to gain a better understanding on the underlying flowphysics of different geometric parameter configurations through the identification of interaction effects. An interaction effect, which describes how the effect of one factor changes with respect to the levels of other factors, is often the key to product optimization. A DOE approach emphasizes a sequential approach to learning through successive experimentation to continuously build on previous knowledge. These studies represent a starting point for expanded experimental activities that will eventually cover the entire design space of the vehicle and flight trajectory.

Rhew, Ray D.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Validation of a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Code for Supersonic Axisymmetric Base Flow

The ability to accurately and efficiently calculate the flow structure in the base region of bodies of revolution in supersonic flight is a significant step in CFD code validation for applications ranging from base heating for rockets to drag for protectives. The FDNS code is used to compute such a flow and the results are compared to benchmark quality experimental data. Flowfield calculations are presented for a cylindrical afterbody at M = 2.46 and angle of attack a = O. Grid independent solutions are compared to mean velocity profiles in the separated wake area and downstream of the reattachment point. Additionally, quantities such as turbulent kinetic energy and shear layer growth rates are compared to the data. Finally, the computed base pressures are compared to the measured values. An effort is made to elucidate the role of turbulence models in the flowfield predictions. The level of turbulent eddy viscosity, and its origin, are used to contrast the various turbulence models and compare the results to the experimental data.

Tucker, P. Kevin↗
NASA NTRS1978

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): Future role and requirements as viewed by an applied aerodynamicist

The problem of designing the wing-fuselage configuration of an advanced transonic commercial airliner and the optimization of a supercruiser fighter are sketched, pointing out the essential fluid mechanical phenomena that play an important role. Such problems suggest that for a numerical method to be useful, it must be able to treat highly three dimensional turbulent separations, flows with jet engine exhausts, and complex vehicle configurations. Weaknesses of the two principal tools of the aerodynamicist, the wind tunnel and the computer, suggest a complementing combined use of these tools, which is illustrated by the case of the transonic wing-fuselage design. The anticipated difficulties in developing an adequate turbulent transport model suggest that such an approach may have to suffice for an extended period. On a longer term, experimentation of turbulent transport in meaningful cases must be intensified to provide a data base for both modeling and theory validation purposes.

Yoshihara, H.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Coupled Microbial-Conversion and Computational-Fluid-Dynamics (CFD) Models for Butanediol Production in Micro-Aerated Reactors

Microbial conversion of substrates to macromolecules has been widely used in the synthesis of value-added products in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. These bioreactions are also being investigated in the production of low-value commodities such as biofuels [1]. Gas-liquid mass-transfer and transport-reaction coupling are important challenges when designing and scaling up these reactor systems. Experiments in wellmixed small-scale reactors have enabled characterization of microbial reactivity, while their coupling with macroscale transport remains relatively unexplored. In this work, we use a coupled metabolic-CFD model to study the action of a genetically engineered microbe Zymomonas mobilis [2] on sugars to produce 2,3-Butanediol (BDO). BDO is an important hydrocarbon intermediate that can be catalytically upgraded to several fuels and chemicals [3]. An important aspect to this particular microbial conversion is the need for micro-aerated environments as opposed to traditional aerobic fermentation. Slight variations in oxygen concentration can result in competing reaction pathways that disable BDO production. Hence, gas-liquid mass transfer and transport need to be optimized in large-scale reactors to maximize BDO production, for which CFD is a valuable tool. The aerobic-fermentation CFD model previously developed by the authors [5] for simulating bubble-column and airlift reactors at scale was used in this study. The Reynolds-averaged mass, momentum and energy transport equations for interpenetrating gas and liquid phase are solved in this model along with the transport and interphase mass transfer of oxygen. Our previous work used a phenomenological model for microbial oxygen uptake that neglected microbial growth and other reaction pathways. In this work, a detailed metabolic model enabled prediction of product formation and inhibition pathways. In order to manage computational cost, we used a subcycling technique [6] that takes advantage of the clear separation in transport (~ 200 sec) and reaction (~ 2-3 hours) timescales. The CFD model is first solved to steady state, after which the metabolic model is advanced at every cell in the computational domain using the local oxygen concentration. The CFD model is then run to achieve a new steady state that provides a new oxygen distribution for the metabolic model. This process, where reaction and fluid updates are interleaved together, is iterated until reactants are completely exhausted. This work will examine the performance of different reactor designs such as bubble column and airlift reactors at scale (250-500 m3). Oxygen mass-transfer coefficient and distribution are critically analyzed among reactors, and optimization studies pertaining to aeration is presented. Furthermore, it has been observed in experiments that high BDO production may be achieved by manipulating the aerobic environment over the course of reaction, such that oxygen concentration is high during the growth phase, and very low as sugar is depleted. This characteristic will be addressed by our simulations for which a timedependent scheduling strategy for aeration is presented that maximizes BDO production. [1] Humbird, D., Davis, R., and McMillan, J., Aeration costs in stirred-tank and bubble column bioreactors, Biochemical Engineering Journal, 127, 161—166, 2017 [2] Yang, S., Mohagheghi, A., Franden, M. A., Chou, Y.-C., Chen, X., Dowe, N., Himmel, M. E., and Zhang, M., Metabolic engineering of zymomonas mobilis for 2, 3-butanediol production from lignocellulosic biomass sugars. Biotechnology for biofuels, 9(1):189, 2016 [3] Kim, S. J., Sim, H. J., Kim, J. W., Lee, Y. G., Park, Y. C., and Seo, J. H., Enhanced production of 2,3-butanediol from xylose by combinatorial engineering of xylose metabolic pathway and cofactor regeneration in pyruvate decarboxylase-deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Bioresource Technology, 245:1551–1557, 2017 [4] Weller, H., Tabor, G., Jasak, H. and Fureby, C., A tensorial approach to computational continuum mechanics using object-oriented techniques, Computers in physics, 12, 6, 620--631, 1998

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗
DOE OSTI2026

Additional Data Focused on Phase 1 Geared Toward Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) validation

A new validation campaign was developed within the Offshore Code Comparison Collaboration, Continued, with Correlation and unCertainty (OC6) to better understand the complex interactions between components of a floating wind system (e.g., columns, pontoons, etc.) in a more generic sense, and to validate modeling approaches for a variety of floating designs. A set of cylinders based on the Offshore Code Comparison Collaboration Continuation (OC4)-DeepCwind semidesign were tested under wave loading, both individually and in different combinations (including the attachment of heave plates of different sizes). The cylinders were held rigid, and pressure sensors were used to measure the distributed loading on the structures, while load cells measured the total integrated hydrodynamic loads.

17 WIND ENERGY↗
NASA NTRS1982

Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in transonic wind-tunnel/flight-test correlation

The capability for calculating transonic flows for realistic configurations and conditions is discussed. Various phenomena which were modeled are shown to have the same order of magnitude on the influence of predicted results. It is concluded that CFD can make the following contributions to the task of correlating wind tunnel and flight test data: some effects of geometry differences and aeroelastic distortion can be predicted; tunnel wall effects can be assessed and corrected for; and the effects of model support systems and free stream nonuniformities can be modeled.

Murman, E. M.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in the design of a water-jet-drive system

NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has an ongoing effort to transfer to industry the technologies developed at MSFC for rocket propulsion systems. The Technology Utilization (TU) Office at MSFC promotes these efforts and accepts requests for assistance from industry. One such solicitation involves a request from North American Marine Jet, Inc. (NAMJ) for assistance in the design of a water-jet-drive system to fill a gap in NAMJ's product line. NAMJ provided MSFC with a baseline axial flow impeller design as well as the relevant working parameters (rpm, flow rate, etc.). This baseline design was analyzed using CFD, and significant deficiencies identified. Four additional analyses were performed involving MSFC changes to the geometric and operational parameters of the baseline case. Subsequently, the impeller was redesigned by NAMJ and analyzed by MSFC. This new configuration performs significantly better than the baseline design. Similar cooperative activities are planned for the design of the jet-drive inlet.

Garcia, Roberto↗
NASA NTRS1993

Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) analysis of axisymmetric plume and base flow of film/dump cooled rocket nozzle

Film/dump cooling a rocket nozzle with fuel rich gas, as in the National Launch System (NLS) Space Transportation Main Engine (STME), adds potential complexities for integrating the engine with the vehicle. The chief concern is that once the film coolant is exhausted from the nozzle, conditions may exist during flight for the fuel-rich film gases to be recirculated to the vehicle base region. The result could be significantly higher base temperatures than would be expected from a regeneratively cooled nozzle. CFD analyses were conduced to augment classical scaling techniques for vehicle base environments. The FDNS code with finite rate chemistry was used to simulate a single, axisymmetric STME plume and the NLS base area. Parallel calculations were made of the Saturn V S-1 C/F1 plume base area flows. The objective was to characterize the plume/freestream shear layer for both vehicles as inputs for scaling the S-C/F1 flight data to NLS/STME conditions. The code was validated on high speed flows with relevant physics. This paper contains the calculations for the NLS/STME plume for the baseline nozzle and a modified nozzle. The modified nozzle was intended to reduce the fuel available for recirculation to the vehicle base region. Plumes for both nozzles were calculated at 10kFT and 50kFT.

Tucker, P. K.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analyses in Support of Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Heat Exchanger (HX) Vane Cracking Investigation

Integration issues involved with installing the alternate turbopump (ATP) High Pressure Oxygen Turbopump (HPOTP) into the SSME have raised questions regarding the flow in the HPOTP turnaround duct (TAD). Steady-state Navier-Stokes CFD analyses have been performed by NASA and Pratt & Whitney (P&W) to address these questions. The analyses have consisted of two-dimensional axisymmetric calculations done at Marshall Space Flight Center and three-dimensional calculations performed at P&W. These analyses have identified flowfield differences between the baseline ATP and the Rocketdyne configurations. The results show that the baseline ATP configuration represents a more severe environment to the inner HX guide vane. This vane has limited life when tested in conjunction with the ATP but infinite life when tested with the current SSME HPOTP. The CFD results have helped interpret test results and have been used to assess proposed redesigns. This paper includes details of the axisymmetric model, its results, and its contribution towards resolving the problem.

Garcia, Roberto↗
NASA NTRS2001

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Design of a Blended Wing Body (BWB) with Boundary Layer Ingestion (BLI) Nacelles

A study is being conducted to improve the propulsion/airframe integration for the Blended Wing-Body (BWB) configuration with boundary layer ingestion nacelles. TWO unstructured grid flow solvers, USM3D and FUN3D, have been coupled with different design methods and are being used to redesign the aft wing region and the nacelles to reduce drag and flow separation. An initial study comparing analyses from these two flow solvers against data from a wind tunnel test as well as predictions from the OVERFLOW structured grid code for a BWB without nacelles has been completed. Results indicate that the unstructured grid codes are sufficiently accurate for use in design. Results from the BWB design study will be presented.

Morehouse, Melissa B.↗
NASA NTRS2011

More-Accurate Model of Flows in Rocket Injectors

An improved computational model for simulating flows in liquid-propellant injectors in rocket engines has been developed. Models like this one are needed for predicting fluxes of heat in, and performances of, the engines. An important part of predicting performance is predicting fluctuations of temperature, fluctuations of concentrations of chemical species, and effects of turbulence on diffusion of heat and chemical species. Customarily, diffusion effects are represented by parameters known in the art as the Prandtl and Schmidt numbers. Prior formulations include ad hoc assumptions of constant values of these parameters, but these assumptions and, hence, the formulations, are inaccurate for complex flows. In the improved model, these parameters are neither constant nor specified in advance: instead, they are variables obtained as part of the solution. Consequently, this model represents the effects of turbulence on diffusion of heat and chemical species more accurately than prior formulations do, and may enable more-accurate prediction of mixing and flows of heat in rocket-engine combustion chambers. The model has been implemented within CRUNCH CFD, a proprietary computational fluid dynamics (CFD) computer program, and has been tested within that program. The model could also be implemented within other CFD programs.

Hosangadi, Ashvin↗
NASA NTRS1987

Application of CFD codes to the design and development of propulsion systems

The internal flows of aerospace propulsion engines have certain common features that are amenable to analysis through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) computer codes. Although the application of CFD to engineering problems in engines was delayed by the complexities associated with internal flows, many codes with different capabilities are now being used as routine design tools. This is illustrated by examples taken from the aircraft gas turbine engine of flows calculated with potential flow, Euler flow, parabolized Navier-Stokes, and Navier-Stokes codes. Likely future directions of CFD applied to engine flows are described, and current barriers to continued progress are highlighted. The potential importance of the Numerical Aerodynamic Simulator (NAS) to resolution of these difficulties is suggested.

Lord, W. K.↗
DOE OSTI2021

Temperature Homogeneity under Selective and Localized Microwave Heating in Structured Flow Reactors

Selective heating of different phases of multiphase systems via microwaves can result in energy savings and suppression of side reactions. However, materials properties and operating conditions that maximize temperature gradients are poorly understood. Here we utilize computational fluid dynamics (CFD) computations and temperature measurements in structured flow reactors (monoliths) in a monomodal microwave cavity to assess the temperature difference between the walls and the fluid and develop a simple lumped model to estimate when temperature gradients exist. We also explore the material’s thermal and electrical properties of structured reactors for isothermal catalyst conditions. We propose that CFD simulations can be used as a nonintrusive, predictive tool of temperature homogeneity. Importantly, we demonstrate that localized heating in the bed under several conditions rather than selective heating is responsible for the selectivity enhancement. Furthermore, our results indicate that structured beds made of high thermal conductivity materials avoid arcing and enable temperature homogeneity and low electrical conductivity materials allow microwaves to penetrate the domain.

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CH↗