VECTOR THRUST LOAD CELL FEASIBILITY STUDY
Abstract
This report describes the results of a research study and analysis of a 6-component force balance for testing rocket engines. The balance is essentially a self-contained, semi-portable structure of strain-gaged force links attached at the forward end of the rocket motor. The physical size of a balance which would cover the thrust range of 1000 lbf to 10,000 lbf is 15 inches diameter, 7-1/2 inches overall height, and 225 lb weight. Three geometrical arrangements of force links were considered and one of these using 3 axial force links and 3 side force links was analyzed in detail. The analysis includes force vector resolution, first order interactions arising from structural redundancy and force link misalignment, and second order interactions resulting from distortion of the balance under load. Calibration methods and theory relating to data reduction are also discussed. The study includes an analysis of propellant couplings which compensate for the effects of links and the attached propellant coupling is intended to simplify installation, alignment, and calibration procedures for 6-component rocket engine testing. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0697953
Entities
People
- R. W. Postma