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Nondestructive Evaluation of the Gimbal Joint Flowliner Slots in the Space Shuttle Main Propulsion System Hydrogen FeedlineFatigue cracks were discovered in the STS-112 Liquid Hydrogen Feedline flowliners in 2002. This led to a development program aimed at providing nondestructive evaluation methods and techniques to verify the existence of these types of cracks in oval shaped slots cut into the ends of the feedlines above the bellows joints. These slots were used to improve flow dynamics and to facilitate cleaning in the bellow joint region. These types of fatigue cracks posed a possible metal debris ingestion threat for the Space Shuttle Main Engines, which attached to these particular joints. Results of this program produced three reliable inspection techniques utilizing the imaging of replisets with a Scanning Electron microscope, eddy current, and ultrasound. The program developed unique probes and fixtures and in the case of eddy current and ultrasound, provided qualification and certification of the particular techniques by various Design of Experiments and Probability of Detection studies utilizing multiple inspectors.
Document ID
20060016358
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Suits, Michael W.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Bryson, Craig C.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2006
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: American Society of Nondestructive Testing Research Symposium
Location: Orlando, FL
Country: United States
Start Date: March 13, 2006
End Date: March 17, 2006
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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