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Composite pressure vessels for the Space Shuttle OrbiterDuring the development of the Space Shuttle Orbiter propulsion and environmental control subsystems it was recognized that use of composite pressure vessels with load sharing liners could provide significant weight savings for high pressure gas containment. A program is described which was undertaken to assess the utility for orbiter applications of titanium 6Al-4V and Inconel 718 liners overwrapped with Kevlar fibers. Vessel characteristics, design features and test results are presented along with brief descriptions of processes and nondestructive evaluation techniques. The resolutions of anomalies and development of design are also presented. Fracture control as applied to the orbiter composite vessels is briefly discussed. Five of the seven titanium lined vessels in the program experienced premature cyclic failures. These failures were shown to be primarily due to metallurgical anomalies rather than an inherent composite design problem. A nonfragmentary leakage mode of failure was demonstrated at operating pressures. The composite designs will be approximately 25 percent lighter than their all metal counterparts.
Document ID
19780049530
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Ecord, G. M.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1977
Subject Category
Spacecraft Design, Testing And Performance
Meeting Information
Meeting: Energy Technology Conference
Location: Houston, TX
Start Date: September 18, 1977
End Date: September 23, 1977
Accession Number
78A33439
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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