LIFTING RE-ENTRY VEHICLE NOSE CAP MATERIALS SURVEY: ARC-TUNNEL TEST RESULTS.
Abstract
Lifting re-entry vehicles in the lower range of sizes currently envisioned require the application of relatively high density ablation materials in the nose and flap regions to limit the shape change due to surface recession. Tests were conducted on 22 available high density ablation materials in a plasma-arc tunnel to evaluate thermal response, surface recession, and mechanical characteristics. Three heat flux levels were imposed: 40, 100, and 140 Btu/sq ft sec. Parallel-laminate materials were found to form serious delaminations and cracks, whereas 20-deg laminates and random-fabric materials survived the tests without mechanical failures. Surface recession rates and thermal response results are reported. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0481868
Entities
People
- William E. Welsh Jr.
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation