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Control of large thermal distortions in a cryogenic wind tunnelThe National Transonic Facility (NTF) is a research wind tunnel capable of operation at temperatures down to 89K (160 R) and pressures up to 900,000 Pa (9 atmospheres) to achieve Reynolds numbers approaching 120,000,000. Wide temperature excursions combined with the precise alignment requirements of the tunnel aerodynamic surfaces imposed constraints on the mechanisms supporting the internal structures of the tunnel. The material selections suitable for this application were also limited. A general design philosophy of utilizing a single fixed point for each linear degree of freedom and guiding the expansion as required was adopted. These support systems allow thermal expansion to take place in a manner that minimizes the development of thermally induced stresses while maintaining structural alignment and resisting high aerodynamic loads. Typical of the support mechanisms are the preload brackets used in the fan shroud system and the Watts linkage used to support the upstream nacelle. The design of these mechanisms along with the basic design requirements and the constraints imposed by the tunnel system are discussed.
Document ID
19830016618
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Gustafson, J. C. (NASA Langley Research Center Hampton, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1983
Publication Information
Publication: JPL The 17th Aerospace Mech. Symp.
Subject Category
Research And Support Facilities (Air)
Accession Number
83N24889
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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IDRelationTitle19830016610Collected WorksThe 17th Aerospace Mechanisms Symposium
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