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At least 91 records · Page 5
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2011

Effects of Active Sting Damping on Common Research Model Data Quality

Recent tests using the Common Research Model (CRM) at the Langley National Transonic Facility (NTF) and the Ames 11-foot Transonic Wind Tunnel (11' TWT) produced large sets of data that have been used to examine the effects of active damping on transonic tunnel aerodynamic data quality. In particular, large statistically significant sets of repeat data demonstrate that the active damping system had no apparent effect on drag, lift and pitching moment repeatability during warm testing conditions, while simultaneously enabling aerodynamic data to be obtained post stall. A small set of cryogenic (high Reynolds number) repeat data was obtained at the NTF and again showed a negligible effect on data repeatability. However, due to a degradation of control power in the active damping system cryogenically, the ability to obtain test data post-stall was not achieved during cryogenic testing. Additionally, comparisons of data repeatability between NTF and 11-ft TWT CRM data led to further (warm) testing at the NTF which demonstrated that for a modest increase in data sampling time, a 2-3 factor improvement in drag, and pitching moment repeatability was readily achieved not related with the active damping system.

Acheson, Michael J.↗
NASA NTRS2015

A Description of the Development, Capabilities, and Operational Status of the Test SLATE Data Acquisition System at the National Transonic Facility

The paper will present a brief background of the previous data acquisition system at the National Transonic Facility (NTF) and the reasoning and goals behind the upgrade to the current Test SLATE (Test Software Laboratory and Automated Testing Environments) data acquisition system. The components, performance characteristics, and layout of the Test SLATE system within the NTF control room will be discussed. The development, testing, and integration of Test SLATE within NTF operations will be detailed. The operational capabilities of the system will be outlined including: test setup, instrumentation calibration, automatic test sequencer setup, data recording, communication between data and facility control systems, real time display monitoring, and data reduction. The current operational status of the Test SLATE system and its performance during recent NTF testing will be highlighted including high-speed, frame-by-frame data acquisition with conditional sampling post-processing applied. The paper concludes with current development work on the system including the capability for real-time conditional sampling during data acquisition and further efficiency enhancements to the wind tunnel testing process.

Cramer, Christopher J.↗
NASA NTRS2019

2 mm GISMO Observations of the Galactic Center. II. A Nonthermal Filament in the Radio Arc and Compact Sources

We have used the Goddard IRAM 2 Millimeter Observer (GISMO) with the 30 m IRAM telescope to carry out a 2 mm survey of the Galaxy’s central molecular zone. These observations detect thermal emission from cold interstellar medium dust, thermal free–free emission from ionized gas, and nonthermal synchrotron emission from relatively flat-spectrum sources. Archival data sets spanning 3.6 μm–90 cm are used to distinguish different emission mechanisms. After the thermal emission of dust is modeled and subtracted, the remaining 2 mm emission is dominated by free–free emission, with the exception of the brightest nonthermal filament (NTF) that runs through the middle of the bundle of filaments known as the Radio Arc. This is the shortest wavelength at which any NTF has been detected. The GISMO observations clearly trace this NTF over a length of ∼0°. 2, with a mean 2 mm spectral index that is steeper than at longer wavelengths. The 2 mm–6 cm (or 20 cm) spectral index steepens from α ≈ −0.2 to −0.7 as a function distance from the Sickle H II region, suggesting that this region is directly related to the NTF. A number of unresolved (at 21″) 2 mm sources are found nearby. One appears to be thermal dust emission from a molecular cloud that is associated with an enigmatic radio point source whose connection to the Radio Arc is still debated. The morphology and colors at shorter IR wavelengths indicate other 2 mm unresolved sources are likely to be compact H II regions.

Staguhn, Johannes↗
NASA NTRS2018

Cryogenic Angle Measurement at NASA Langley

NASA’s National Transonic Facility is one of the few cryogenic wind-tunnel facilities in the world, where tunnel conditions may reach -250 F. Model angle of attack (AoA) at NTF is typically measured by an on-board accelerometer package that is exposed to the cryogenic tunnel conditions. These NTF AoA packages house two Q-Flex accelerometers in a compact heated environment in order to maintain constant temperature of the sensors for stability. Recently, drift in sensor output was observed in one of the NTF AoA packages. The drift is correlated with the AoA package temperature and cryogenic soak time. This paper studies the temperature and time dependent behavior of the NTF AoA packages, and reviews their design and calibration. Recommended improvements to the AoA packages are made to improve the stability of the model angle of attack measurements at cryogenic conditions.

Toro, Kenneth G.↗
NASA NTRS2019

Additional Findings from the Common Research Model Natural Laminar Flow Wind Tunnel Test

An experimental investigation of the Common Research Model with Natural Laminar Flow (CRM-NLF) took place in the National Transonic Facility (NTF) at the NASA Langley Research Center in 2018. The 5.2% scale semispan model was designed using a new natural laminar flow design method, Crossflow Attenuated NLF (CATNLF). CATNLF enables laminar flow on typical transport wings with high sweep and Reynolds number by reshaping the wing airfoils to obtain specific pressure distribution characteristics that control the crossflow growth near the leading edge. The CATNLF method also addresses Tollmien- Schlichting transition, attachment line transition, and Görtler vortices. During the wind tunnel test, data were acquired to address three primary test objectives: validate the CATNLF design method, characterize the NTF laminar flow testing capabilities, and establish best practices for laminar flow wind tunnel testing. The present paper provides both experimental and computational data to understand the CRM-NLF laminar flow characteristics, as well as address the three primary test objectives. The effects of angle of attack and Reynolds number on the CRM-NLF laminar flow extent are studied, and the dominant transition mechanism is evaluated at a variety of test conditions. Critical N-factors are calculated for the NTF environment, and a discussion on best practices for laminar flow wind tunnel testing is provided. The CRM-NLF in the NTF provided initial confirmation of the ability of the CATNLF method to suppress crossflow growth and enable significant extents of laminar flow on transport wings with high sweep and Reynolds numbers.

Lynde, Michelle N.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Plenum response to simulated disturbances of the model and fan inlet guide vanes in a transonic tunnel

In order to aid in the design of the National Transonic Facility (NTF) control system, test section/plenum response studies were carried out in a 0.186 scale model of the NTF high speed duct. Two types of disturbances, those induced by the model and those induced by the compressor inlet guide vanes were simulated. Some observations with regard to the test section/plenum response tests are summarized as follows. A resonance frequency for the test section/plenum area of the tunnel of approximately 50 Hz was observed for Mach numbers from 0.40 to 0.90. However, since the plenum is 3.1 times (based on volume) too large for the scaled size of the test section, care must be taken in extrapolating these data to NTF conditions. The plenum pressure data indicate the existence of pressure gradients in the plenum. The test results indicate that the difference between test section static pressure and plenum pressure is dependent on test section flow conditions. Plenum response to inlet guide vane type disturbances appears to be slower than plenum response to test section disturbances.

Gloss, B. B.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Description of 0.186-scale model of high-speed duct of national transonic facility

The National Transonic Facility (NTF) is a pressurized cryogenic wind tunnel with a 2.5 m square test section. A 0.186-scale model of the NTF was used to simulate the aerodynamic performance of the components of the high-speed duct of the NTF. These components consist of a wide-angle diffuser, settling chamber, contraction section, test section, model support section, and high-speed diffuser. The geometry of the model tunnel, referred to as the diffuser flow apparatus is described, and some of its operating characteristics are presented.

Gentry, C. L., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Guide for users of the National Transonic Facility

The National Transonic Facility (NTF) is a fan-driven, closed-circuit, continuous flow, pressurized wind tunnel. The test section is 2.5 m x 2.5 m and 7.62 m long with a slotted-wall configuration. The NTF will have a Mach number range from 0.2 to 1.2, with Reynolds number up to 120 10 to the sixth power at Mach 1 (based on a reference length of 0.25 m). The pressure range for the facility will be from 1 to about 9 bars (1 ban = 100 kPa), and the temperature can be varied from 340 to 78 K. This report provides potential users of the NTF with the information required for preliminary planning to test programs and for preliminary layout of models and model supports which may be used in such programs.

Fuller, D. E.↗
NASA NTRS1981

Flow quality measurements in transonic wind tunnels and planned calibration of the National Transonic Facility

The need for mean flow and dynamic flow quality measurements for the National Transonic Facility (NTF) was considered. Past experience in making flow quality measurements in transonic flows and at cryogenic temperatures was used to guide the selection of methods to be used in the NTF. It appears that suitable instrumentation will be available and adequate experience has been obtained to insure that the proper calibration of the NTF can be made.

Stainback, P. C.↗
NASA NTRS1982

Space-vehicle correlation of ground and flight experiments

A 2-percent-scale model was designed for testing in the NTF. This model has remotely controlled elevons, body flap, and rudder to minimize tunnel entries associated with configuration changes in the NTF. The Shuttle Orbiter has a very large aerodynamic data base obtained in ground facilities. Since the vehicle flight-test program has already begun, a large amount of flight data can be analyzed and correlated with the NTF results.

Scallion, W. I.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Design and construction of models for the National Transonic Facility, part 1

The design and construction of models for the National Transonic Facility (NTF) has resulted in significant technology developments in many areas. This lecture covers the development of design criteria and major research and development work that has contributed to the successful design and fabrication models for testing at full scale Reynolds number the NTF. Emphasis is placed on the materials aspect of the design and fabrication proces, including metallic materials, mechanical properties characterization, new steel alloy development, fracture toughness enhancement, and identification of fillers and solders suitable for use in cryogenic models. Quantitative data are provided which will be of value to the potential user of NTF or for application to the design and fabrication of model systems for other cryogenic wind tunnels.

Young, C. P., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Design and construction of models for the National Transonic Facility, part 2

This lecture presents the results of fastener load and retention systems tests which were carried out as a part of the cryogenic models technology development program a the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). Various design concepts for the National Transonic Facility (NTF) developmental and production models are discussed. A number of NTF models are described with emphasis on materials used, uniqueness of design and design drivers. Design and fabrication experience is presented in terms of the primary thermal and mechanical considerations required for design as well as fabrication. Cost considerations are addressed in terms of factors influencing costs for NTF models and cost data comparisons which are taken from both NASA Langley and industry experience.

Young, C. P., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Cryogenic temperature effects on sting-balance deflections in the National Transonic Facility

An investigation was conducted at the National Transonic Facility (NTF) to document the change in sting-balance deflections from ambient to cryogenic temperatures. Space limitations in some NTF models do not allow the use of on-board angle of attack instrumentation. In order to obtain angle of attack data, pre-determined sting-balance bending data must be combined with arc sector angle measurements. Presently, obtaining pretest sting-balance data requires several cryogenic cycles and cold loadings over a period of several days. A method of reducing the calibration time required is to obtain only ambient temperature sting-balance bending data and correct for changes in material properties at cryogenic temperatures. To validate this method, two typical NTF sting-balance combinations were tested. The test results show excellent agreement with the predicted values and the repeatability of the data was 0.01 degree.

Popernack, Thomas G., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1989

Experience with strain-gage balances for cryogenic wind tunnels

The U.S. National Transonic Facility (NTF) is a cryogenic wind tunnel build to meet the United States' needs for high Reynolds number testing. The facility was declared operational in August 1984, and since that time numerous models were tested in the NTF using unheated strain-gage balances to measure aerodynamic forces. The difficulty in accurately measuring forces and moments of models in conventional wind tunnels becomes more challenging at cryogenic conditions. The Force and Strain Instrumentation Section of the Instrument Research Division at NASA Langley Research Center designed and fabricated the balances to measure forces at cryogenic temperatures without thermally controlling the balance temperature. Presented are balance results from a recent cryogenic test program in the NTF. The data indicated the accuracy with which aerodynamic forces are determined using current instrumentation and test methods as well as identified areas for future research.

Williams, M. Susan↗
NASA NTRS1990

Analysis of the National Transonic Facility mishap

The nonlinear dynamic finite element code DYnamic Crash Analysis of STructures (DYCAST) was used to model an accident scenario that occurred at the National Transonic Facility (NTF) wind tunnel. A post mishap investigation revealed that a total of five upstream bulkhead fairing plates were missing, three in one location and two in another. These plates were drawn into the wind tunnel's composite fan blades causing extensive damage. A DYCAST model was developed to determine if one-half of a small thermal shield flange clamp, weighing approximately 2.7 lbs., could have spun off the NTF drive shaft and impacted the bulkhead fairing plates with sufficient energy to cause failure of the attachment bolts. The clamp was presumed to have spun off at a tangent from the NTF drive shaft at a velocity of 1624 in/sec (drive shaft rotating at 580 rpm). The DYCAST analytical model predicts that impact of the 2.7 lbs projectile failed all of the bolts in two of the fairing plates allowing them to escape from the bulkhead ring with a low velocity of a few in/sec.

Fasanella, Edwin L.↗
NASA NTRS1995

A longitudinal aerodynamic data repeatability study for a commercial transport model test in the National Transonic Facility

A high Reynolds number investigation of a commercial transport model was conducted in the National Transonic Facility (NTF) at Langley Research Center. This investigation was part of a cooperative effort to test a 0.03-scale model of a Boeing 767 airplane in the NTF over a Mach number range of 0.70 to 0.86 and a Reynolds number range of 2.38 to 40.0 x 10(exp 6) based on the mean aerodynamic chord. One of several specific objectives of the current investigation was to evaluate the level of data repeatability attainable in the NTF. Data repeatability studies were performed at a Mach number of 0.80 with Reynolds numbers of 2.38, 4.45, and 40.0 x 10(exp 6) and also at a Mach number of 0.70 with a Reynolds number of 40.0 x 10(exp 6). Many test procedures and data corrections are addressed in this report, but the data presented do not include corrections for wall interference, model support interference, or model aeroelastic effects. Application of corrections for these three effects would not affect the results of this study because the corrections are systematic in nature and are more appropriately classified as sources of bias error. The repeatability of the longitudinal stability-axis force and moment data has been accessed. Coefficients of lift, drag, and pitching moment are shown to repeat well within the pretest goals of plus or minus 0.005, plus or minus 0.0001, and plus or minus 0.001, respectively, at a 95-percent confidence level over both short- and near-term periods.

Wahls, R. A.↗
NASA NTRS2000

Implementation of the WICS Wall Interference Correction System at the National Transonic Facility

The Wall Interference Correction System (WICS) is operational at the National Transonic Facility (NTF) of NASA Langley Research Center (NASA LaRC) for semispan and full span tests in the solid wall (slots covered) configuration, The method is based on the wall pressure signature method for computing corrections to the measured parameters. It is an adaptation of the WICS code operational at the 12 ft pressure wind tunnel (12ft PWT) of NASA Ames Research Center (NASA ARC). This paper discusses the details of implementation of WICS at the NTF including, tunnel calibration, code modifications for tunnel and support geometry, changes made for the NTF wall orifices layout, details of interfacing with the tunnel data processing system, and post-processing of results. Example results of applying WICS to a semispan test and a full span test are presented. Comparison with classical correction results and an analysis of uncertainty in the corrections are also given. As a special application of the code, the Mach number calibration data from a centerline pipe test was computed by WICS. Finally, future work for expanding the applicability of the code including online implementation is discussed.

Iyer, Venkit↗
NASA NTRS2000

Implementation of the WICS Wall Interference Correction System at the National Transonic Facility

The Wall Interference Correction System (WICS) is operational at the National Transonic Facility (NTF) of NASA Langley Research Center (NASA LaRC) for semispan and full span tests in the solid wall (slots covered) configuration. The method is based on the wall pressure signature method for computing corrections to the measured parameters. It is an adaptation of the WICS code operational at the 12 ft pressure wind tunnel (12ft PWT) of NASA Ames Research Center (NASA ARC). This paper discusses the details of implementation of WICS at the NTF including tunnel calibration, code modifications for tunnel and support geometry, changes made for the NTF wall orifices layout, details of interfacing with the tunnel data processing system, and post-processing of results. Example results of applying WICS to a semispan test and a full span test are presented. Comparison with classical correction results and an analysis of uncertainty in the corrections are also given. As a special application of the code, the Mach number calibration data from a centerline pipe test was computed by WICS. Finally, future work for expanding the applicability of the code including online implementation is discussed.

Iyer, Venkit↗