Fundamental Parameters Affecting Plume Infrared Radiation
Abstract
The development of realistic aerial target systems for air-to-air missiles testing requires the capability to simulate the infrared signature of turbojet engine exhausts within the limited payload of a subscale airframe. Investigations are being performed to identify and understand the parameters that are most effective in maximizing the infrared radiant intensity from the plume of small engines. This report describes the results of experiments performed under static ambient conditions simulating altitudes up to 60,000 feet. The relationship between the infrared radiation emitted in the 3 to 5 micron band and the gas dynamics parameters has been studied. Two major parameters, oxidizer to fuel mixture ratio and choked flow, have been identified which will cause order of magnitude variations in plume infrared radiant intensity. Total mass flow and chamber pressure have been found to be secondary parameters which cause linear variations in radiant intensity in this band. Exit gas velocity and thrust were found to have very little effect on the infrared figure of merit, J. Radiant intensity was normalized to mass flow rate in this investigation (watts/steradian output divided by total mass flow rate input) so as to obtain a direct indication of target drone payload requirements for a given source as well as predicting the duration of the simulation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0921318
Entities
People
- Davut B. Ebeoglu