An Adaptive, Unstructured, Finite-Element, Multi-Material, Thermal Analysis
Abstract
An efficient method has been developed for obtaining a high- resolution temperature distribution of the transient heat conduction inside an arbitrary domain containing any number of anisotropic materials. The method combines an adaptive, unstructured, mesh generation technique and a finite- element analysis program for a multi-material thermal analysis. The technique allows easy generation of fine elements in a high-temperature gradient area and coarse elements in a low-temperature gradient area to enhance the quality of analysis results with minimum effort and cost. Continuity of finite-element mesh across the boundaries of multiple materials is precisely preserved. The thermal conduction inside an infinite cylinder and inside a two-layer slab is analyzed, and the results are compared to the exact solution to validate the solution procedure. Application of the method to investigate heat penetration in the Titan 4 Solid Rocket Motor Upgrade nozzle flexseal of a multi-material structure is demonstrated. Extension of the method to calculate thermal response of a Star-37S nozzle/exit cone insulation and supporting structure with complicated, multiple charring materials is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA278632
Entities
People
- I-shih Chang
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation