LeRC NATR Free-Jet Development

The Nozzle Acoustic Test Rig (NATR) was developed to provide additional test capabilities at Lewis needed to meet HSR program goals. The NATR is a large f ree-jet facility (free-jet diameter = 53 in.) with a design Mach number of 0.3. It is located inside a geodesic dome, adjacent to the existing Powered Lift Facility (PLF). The NATR allows nozzle concepts to be acoustically assessed for far-field (approximately 50 feet) noise characteristics under conditions simulating forward flight. An ejector concept was identified as a means of supplying the required airflow for this free-jet facility. The primary stream is supplied through a circular array of choked nozzles and the resulting low pressure in the constant, annular- area mixing section causes a "pumping" action that entrains the secondary stream. The mixed flow expands through an annular diffuser and into a plenum chamber. Once inside the plenum, the flow passes over a honeycomb/screen combination intended to remove large disturbances and provide uniform flow. The flow accelerates through an elliptical contraction section where it achieves a free-jet Mach number of up to 0.3.