Stability testing of a modified Space Shuttle Main EngineThe testing of the combustion stability characteristics of Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) 0208 is described in terms of augmenting the technology base for large O/H thrust-chamber assemblies. The throat area is increased by 12 percent over that of the flight SSMEs, and the thrust chamber assembly does not include stability aids. Acoustic modes in the chamber are excited by means of rapid pressure generators employed in the start-transient through mainstage operations. Stability characteristics are determined by damp times which are facilitated by high-frequency instrumentation measuring oscillations and locating stable operating regions. All vibration modes are damped to within the requirements for a chamber mode set forth by the Chemical Propulsion Information Agency. No sustained chamber acoustic oscillations are exhibited in engine 0208's combustion chamber configuration in spite of the absence of baffles and acoustic cavities.
Document ID
19910059460
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Dennis, H. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Hutt, J. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Nesman, T. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)