Arcjet Semi-Elliptic Nozzle Simulations and Validation in Support of TPS Testing

摘要: Much of the ground based testing advanced thermal protection system (TPS) components for X33 program is done in arc-heated wind tunnels such as those located Arc-Jet Complex at NASA Ames Research Center. These facilities are capable simulating high temperature, chemically reacting flow environment experienced by vehicle during flight. This allows one to test critical design issues maximum reuse temperatures, seals, gaps, and increases heating due interfaces between different materials. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has evolved point where it now can be used process accurate timely prediction trajectory aerothermal environments re-entry vehicles. It also simulation arcjets. By utilization same CFD code solution methodology, important differences flight may quantified. The goal this paper utilize provide validated simulations NASA-Ames semi elliptic nozzle arcjet facilities. validation will come From comparison existing calibration data. Specific tests support TPS ilso simulated. In manner, identified a measure traceability.