Flow Decay: Impaired Flow in Nitrogen Tetroxide Propulsion Systems Caused by Corrosion Product Deposits
Abstract
Flow decay is defined as a condition of impaired flow in nitrogen tetroxide propulsion systems caused by the deposition or the accumulation of stainless-steel corrosion products in small valve orifices or in filters. These corrosion productions take the form of either a solid or a second liquid phase, the latter being variously described as very viscous or gelatinous. Both types of deposit are derived from iron nitrate, the solid being assignable the chemical formula NOFe(NO3)4, the liquid being a complex mixture derived from the interaction of iron nitrate and water. Both are soluble in the nitrogen tetroxide, but only at a level of a few parts per million (as iron). Their presence in the propellant and their deposition is a function of the water equivalent level of the propellant and the temperature and pressure profiles which the propellant encounters before and during flow. In general, the deposition will occur whenever propellant has been cooled just prior to or during flow and this change in temperature required for deposition may be as low as 3 to 5 F.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0846606
Entities
People
- E. F. Cain
- F. C. Gunderloy Jr.
- J. Sinor
- R. I. Wagner