Wind Tunnel Material Test to Quantify Space Shuttle External Tank Insulation Requirements.
Abstract
The objective of this test was to determine the response of the thermal protection material used in the press line bracket/cable tray region of the Space Shuttle External Tank (ET) to an aerothermal environment. Foam insulation specimens were mounted on a concave plate which was injected to the edge of the wind tunnel nozzle. This allowed the nozzle boundary layer to flow onto the specimen plate. Thus, the turbulent boundary layer approaching the specimen region was significantly thicker than could be produced by other more standard test methods. Data from this test will be used to evaluate a possible reduction in weight of the Space Shuttle External Tank by reducing the amount of insulative material or replacing it with a lighter material.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA141563
Entities
People
- A. S. Hartman
Organizations
- Arnold Engineering Development Complex