NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Preflight status of the External Tank portion of the Space Shuttle Main Propulsion SystemThe development progress of the External Tank (ET) of the Shuttle Main Propulsion System (MPS) is described. 87% of ET propulsion components have satisfactorily completed qualification tests in preparation for the first Shuttle flight and their performance has been verified in the Main Propulsion Test Article (MPTA) firings of up to 100 seconds duration. The design changes in the LH2 tank pressurant diffuser, the LO2 feed system, and the ground test LO2 tank are discussed. Propellant loading information from MPTA tests may be used to predict loading operations and performance at KSC and VAFB, while ullage pressure profiles and boil-off rates during loading, chilldown rates, and final bulk density data have been obtained with geyser suppression evaluated and loading procedures established and verified. The MPTA test experience provided data to evaluate pressurization system and ET to Orbiter interface propellant performance noting thus that the fluid interface requirements will be satisfied for the first Shuttle flight. The Intertank inerting system was found to be effective in minimizing hazardous gas mixtures and full scale separation tests of the ET to Ground Umbilical Carrier Plate system were successfully completed.
Document ID
19790056738
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Norquist, L.
(Martin Marietta Aerospace New Orleans, La., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1979
Subject Category
Launch Vehicles And Space Vehicles
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 79-1143
Meeting Information
Meeting: AIAA, SAE, and ASME, Joint Propulsion Conference
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Start Date: June 18, 1979
End Date: June 20, 1979
Sponsors: SAE, ASME, AIAA
Accession Number
79A40751
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-30300
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available