MAIN-TANK INJECTION PRESSURIZATION OF HIGH-ENERGY PROPELLANTS.
Abstract
This report describes the work accomplished in demonstrating the feasibility of applying the main-tank injection (MTI) concept to high-energy propellants including hydrazine, mixed hydrazine, thixotropic hydrazine, nitrogen tetroxide, storable fluorine derivatives, and fluorine. The MTI process provides propellant tank pressurization by the controlled injection of a hypergolic reagent to generate the required gas pressure resulting from the reaction with the propellant. The technical approach included determination of theoretical pressurization system performance with the new propellants based on previous experience, selection of suitable reagents, and demonstration of process feasibility by tests performed in a 5 1/2-cu-ft test tank at 25, 150, and 300 psig. Process feasibility for all the propellants except for Alumizine at the higher pressures. No testing was completed using common ullage. Although pressurization process control was adequately demonstrated during a nominal 2 1/2-minute propellant outflow, the reagents selected are not necessarily the optimum candidates. Furthermore, the original and post test theoretical predictions of pressurization system performance have been invalidated by actual test results.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0373850
Entities
People
- J. Winkler
- P. Bingham
- R. Kenny