HiBEX Silo Design and Test Firing Results
Abstract
Mathematical models were developed to predict the silo environment and the effects of a silo launch on a high-performance vehicle. Based upon the results of theoretical analyses using those models, equipment was designed to explore launch effects with three different silo configurations, namely: (1) closed breech, low plenum pressure; (2) closed breech, high plenum pressure; and (3) vented. HiBEX vehicles were successfully launched from the low- and high-pressure closed-breech configurations. Utilization of the vented configuration was planned in the event that insurmountable difficulties were encountered with the other configurations. Since no difficulties were encountered, the vented configuration was not required. The silo thermal and pressure environment measured during the silo launches compared well with the analytical results. The effects of silo launches on the vehicle were not significantly different from those encountered during a surface launch. The acoustic environment in the vicinity of the silo correlated well with blast wave theory.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 05, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0371261
Entities
Organizations
- Boeing