DEVELOPMENT OF TANTALUM-TUNGSTEN ALLOYS FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE PROPULSION SYSTEM COMPONENTS
Abstract
Efforts were directed toward evaluating the effects of the A-3 propellant upon the higher W content alloys and carburized pure Ta. The effects of carbide thickness and tantalum substrate thickness were evaluated using A-3 Merm testing conditions. The addition of W strongly increased the resistance to rocket nozzle exhaust gases. No erosion occurred in Ta-10 and -20% W inserts in the standard Atlantic Research Corporation Arcite 373 firings. Jetavator bar firings at ARC exhibited increasing resistance as the W content was increased to 30%. Forged full-scale inserts of Ta-10% W were adequate for Polaris A-2 second stage conditions but failed at higher mass rates of flow. An insert of pure Ta carburized to a depth of 0.030 in. showed no erosion in a standard Arcite 373 test firing. Alloys containing up to 30% W were cast and machined. The fabrication procedures for sheet, rod, wire and shape forgings was established for Ta-10% W. Ta-20% W ingots were extrued and upset forged. Physical, mechanical and metallurgical properties were determined for the Ta-10% W alloy at room and elevated temperatures. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 09, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0256658
Entities
People
- M.l. Torti