Hydrocarbon Fuel/Combustion-Chamber-Liner Materials Compatibility

Abstract

Results of material compatibility experiments using hydrocarbon fuels in contact with copper-based combustion chamber liner materials are presented. Mil-Spec RP-1, n- dodecane, propane, and methane fuels were tested in contact with OFHC, NASA-Z, and ZrCu coppers. Two distinct test methods were employed. Static tests, in which copper coupons were exposed to fuel for long durations at constant temperature and pressure, provided compatibility data in a precisely controlled environment. Dynamic tests, using the Aerojet Carbothermal Test Facility, provided fuel and copper compatibility data under realistic booster engine service conditions. Tests were conducted using (1) very pure grades of each fuel and (2) fuels to which contaminant, e.g. ethylene or methyl mercaptan, was added to define the role played by fuel impurities. Conclusions are reached as to degradation mechanisms and effects, methods for the elimination of these mechanisms, selection of copper alloy combustion chamber liners, and hydrocarbon fuel purchase specifications.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1990
Accession Number
ADA227392

Entities

People

  • Mark L. Gage
  • Sanders S. Rosenberg

Organizations

  • Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Counter IED
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Alkanes
  • Alkenes
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Coatings
  • Combustion Chambers
  • Dielectric Gases
  • Fabrication
  • Heat Transfer
  • Hydrocarbon Fuels
  • Liquids
  • Materials
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Static Tests
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Test Facilities
  • Test Methods

Readers

  • Materials Science and Engineering.
  • Petroleum Engineering
  • Rocket Propulsion.