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DESIGN, CALIBRATION AND TESTING OF A FORCE BALANCE FOR A HYPERSONIC SHOCK TUNNEL by PRAVIN VADASSERY Presented to the Faculty of the Graduate School of The University of Texas at Arlington in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON MAY 2012

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DESIGN, CALIBRATION AND TESTING OF A FORCE BALANCE FOR

A HYPERSONIC SHOCK TUNNEL

by

PRAVIN VADASSERY

Presented to the Faculty of the Graduate School of

The University of Texas at Arlington in Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements

for the Degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT ARLINGTON

MAY 2012

Copyright © by Pravin Vadassery 2012

All Rights Reserved

iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Foremost, I am thankful to God for having blessed me throughout my life, without whom

nothing is possible. Next thanks go to Dr Frank Lu and Dr Don Wilson for their constant support

and for giving me the opportunity to work at the ARC (Aerodynamics Research Center). Again, I

am thankful to Dr Lu for his determination, enthusiasm and vast knowledge. His words of

encouragement, “Making mistakes is all part of the learning process”, helped me to overcome

the hardships during my research. A special thanks to Eric M Braun for his help, quick

suggestions and for always being around.

I acknowledge my fellow team mates in doing an excellent job of reconstructing the

UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel and getting it back on running condition. Special thanks go to

Tiago Rolim for his endless support and always assisting me in the times of repair, machining

and discussions. Thanks also to Derek Leamon, Nitesh K Manjunatha, Raheem Bello and

Dibesh Joshi.

I appreciate the work of all the technical staff involved in the Mechanical and Aerospace

Department. Special credit to Kermit Beird, Sam Williams and Rod Duke for fabrication of all

necessary parts and for sharing their practical knowledge. I sincerely thank everyone in the

ARC, also for making this place lively and ‘loud’.

Finally, I would like to thank my parents, family and friends for their patience and for

supporting me.

April 17, 2012

iv

ABSTRACT

DESIGN, CALIBRATION AND TESTING OF A FORCE BALANCE FOR

A HYPERSONIC SHOCK TUNNEL

Pravin Vadassery, M.S

The University of Texas at Arlington, 2012

Supervising Professor: Frank K. Lu

The forces acting on a flight vehicle are critical for determining its performance. Of

particular interest is the hypersonic regime. Force measurements are much more complex in

hypersonic flows, where those speeds are simulated in shock tunnels. A force balance for such

facilities contains sensitive gages that measure stress waves and ultimately determine the

different components of force acting on the model. An external force balance was designed and

fabricated for the UTA Hypersonic shock tunnel to measure drag at Mach 10. Static and

dynamic calibrations were performed to find the transfer function of the system. Forces were

recovered using a deconvolution procedure. To validate the force balance, experiments were

conducted on a blunt cone. The measured forces were compared to Newtonian theory.

v

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................................ iii ABSTRACT ..................................................................................................................................... iv LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS.............................................................................................................. vii LIST OF TABLES ............................................................................................................................. x Chapter Page

1. INTRODUCTION ……………………………………..………..…....................................... 1

1.1 Literature Survey .............................................................................................. 1

1.2 Force Measurement Techniques ..................................................................... 2

1.2.1 Internal Force Balance ..................................................................... 3 1.2.2 External Force Balance .................................................................... 3 1.2.3 Strain Gages .................................................................................... 4

1.2.4 Piezoelectric Film ............................................................................. 4

1.2.5 Accelerometer .................................................................................. 5

1.3 Convolution ...................................................................................................... 5

1.4 Objective of Research ...................................................................................... 7

2. FACILITY ........................................................................................................................ 8

2.1 UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel at the Aerodynamics Research Center .......................................................................................... 8

2.2 Reconstruction of the UTA Hypersonic Shock

Tunnel ........................................................................................................ 13

2.3 Diaphragm Test .............................................................................................. 13

3. DESIGN AND EXPERIMENTAL SETUP .................................................................... 15

3.1 Force Balance Design .................................................................................... 15

vi

3.1.1 Finite Element Analysis ................................................................. 18 3.1.2 Force Balance Construction .......................................................... 24

3.2 Calibration Technique .................................................................................... 29

3.2.1 Static Calibration ............................................................................ 29 3.2.2 Dynamic Calibration ...................................................................... 32

3.3 Shock Tunnel Testing ................................................................................... 42

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION .................................................................................... 43 4.1 Force Measurement Prediction ..................................................................... 43

4.1.1 Modified Newtonian Theory .......................................................... 43 4.1.2 Coefficient of Drag Calculation using Pitot Pressure .......................................................................... 46

4.2 Experimental Results ..................................................................................... 48

5. CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK ........................................................................ 53

5.1 Force Balance in the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel ................................... 53

5.2 Future Work and Recommendations ............................................................ 55

APPENDIX

A. LIST OF DESIGN DRAWINGS ..................................................................................... 56

B. MATLAB PROGRAM FOR FORCE ESTIMATION ..................................................... 63

C. INSTRUMENTATION DETAILS .................................................................................. 67 REFERENCES ............................................................................................................................... 70 BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................. 72

vii

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Figure Page 1.1 Linear input-output system (a) continuous (b) discrete .............................................................. 6 1.2 Convolution in time and frequency domain ................................................................................ 6 2.1 Schematic of the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel ..................................................................... 9 2.2 Panorama view of the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel .............................................................. 9 2.3 Schematic of the double diaphragm section ........................................................................... 10 2.4 Photograph of double diaphragm section ............................................................................... 10 2.5 Steel diaphragms (a) scored diaphragm (b) ruptured diaphragm after test ........................................................... 14 3.1 Different preliminary designs .................................................................................................... 17 3.2 Fabricated force balance .......................................................................................................... 18 3.3 Generated mesh of the force balance ...................................................................................... 19 3.4 FEA analysis settings ............................................................................................................... 20 3.5 Strain concentration in stress bars .......................................................................................... 20 3.6 Simulated input load of 350 N .................................................................................................. 21 3.7 Response to simulated impulse at (a) location1 (b) location2 ......................................................................................................... 22 3.8 (a) Simulated step load of 222.4 N (b) step response of location 2 ........................................ 22 3.9 Animated result of stress wave propagation ............................................................................ 23 3.10 Blunt cone model (a) side view (b) front view ........................................................................ 24 3.11 Hardened steel bolt hinge ..................................................................................................... 25 3.12 Installed model and balance in the test section .................................................................... 26 3.13 Attached strain gages ........................................................................................................... 27 3.14 Installed model and balance in the test section, front view .................................................... 28

viii

3.15 Schematic of static calibration procedure ............................................................................. 29 3.16 Static loading and unloading of force balance ...................................................................... 30 3.17 Average film output versus hammer force ............................................................................ 32 3.18 Schematic of a cut weight test .............................................................................................. 33 3.19 Vertical cut weight test .......................................................................................................... 33 3.20 Schematic of impulse hammer calibration ............................................................................ 34 3.21 Raw data of hammer impulse test .......................................................................................... 35 3.22 Sample hammer impulse ...................................................................................................... 35 3.23 Check signal for both raw and modified hammer pulse ........................................................ 36 3.24 Detail view of check signal with error bar ............................................................................... 37 3.25 Simulated unit step input ....................................................................................................... 37 3.26 Modified hammer signal ......................................................................................................... 38 3.27 Enlarged view of the modified hammer pulse ....................................................................... 38 3.28 Impulse response obtained from FFT and JMECG .............................................................. 39 3.29 Power spectral density plot of FRF ....................................................................................... 40 3.30 Enlarged power spectral density plot of FRF for first 12 kHz ................................................ 40 3.31 Enlarged phase spectrum of FRF ......................................................................................... 41 3.32 Spectrogram of the FRF ........................................................................................................ 41 4.1 Plot of (a) coefficient of drag (b) coefficient of lift .................................................................... 45 4.2 Coefficient of drag from recovered force (condition 1) ............................................................ 48 4.3 Recovered drag force and predicted force .............................................................................. 49 4.4 Raw pitot pressure signal ....................................................................................................... 49 4.5 Detailed view of the pitot pressure signal and drag ................................................................. 50 4.6 Coefficient of drag from recovered force (condition 2) ............................................................. 50 4.7 Recovered drag force .............................................................................................................. 51 4.8 Raw pitot pressure signal ........................................................................................................ 51

ix

4.9 Detailed view of the pitot pressure signal ................................................................................ 52 A.1 Force balance drawing ............................................................................................................ 57 A.2 Blunt cone model drawing ...................................................................................................... 58 A.3 PCB pressure transducer holder drawing ............................................................................... 59 A.4 Hinge joint part 1 drawing ....................................................................................................... 60 A.5 Hinge joint part 2 drawing ....................................................................................................... 61 A.6 Scoring pattern on steel diaphragm drawing .......................................................................... 62 C.1 Amplifier circuit diagram for piezoelectric film ......................................................................... 69

x

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page 2.1 Rupture properties of diaphragm tests .................................................................................... 14

3.1 Properties of some metals/alloys ............................................................................................ 16

3.2 Static calibration results .......................................................................................................... 31

3.3 Test condition .......................................................................................................................... 42

4.1 Force prediction using modified Newtonian theory condition 1 .............................................. 46

4.2 Force prediction using modified Newtonian theory condition 2 .............................................. 46

4.3 Comparison of experimental to theoretical drag ..................................................................... 52

1

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

The forces acting on a flight vehicle are critical for determining its performance. Of

particular interest is the hypersonic regime. Research in hypersonics has led to successful tests

of scramjet (supersonic combustion ramjet) based vehicles, such as, NASA X-43A. In

hypersonic vehicle design, significance is laid on propulsion system integration, engine

performance, aerodynamics and thrust measurements. Specifically ground-based test facilities

have limited steady test time thus making force measurement complex in this very short

duration of time.

1.1 Literature Survey

Hypersonic wind tunnels have been in use since the 1950’s and have

developed into different types, namely, continuous and impulse types. Impulse facilities include

shock tubes, reflected shock tunnels and expansion tunnels. The basic principle of these

impulse facilities is to suddenly release a highly compressed gas in the so-called driver tube

through rupturing a diaphragm. The sudden release of the compressed gas propagates a shock

wave into a so-called driven tube filled with the test gas at low pressure. The shock

compresses and heats the test gas to the desired conditions, after which, it is expelled by a

nozzle to hypersonic conditions. For example, the T4 free piston shock tunnel at the University

of Queensland is an impulse-type facility that simulates hypersonic flows [1].

2

1.2 Force Measurement Technique

Throughout this thesis, force measurements refer to techniques for impulse

facilities unless noted otherwise. Force measurement is complicated in impulse facilities due to

the short test duration that will likely prevent the force balance from attaining a steady state.

This limitation of short test times in such facilities was overcome by applying the stress wave

force measurement technique (SWFM), proposed by Sanderson and Simmons [2]. Due to

impulsive aerodynamic loading, stress waves that are created, propagate and reflect through

the model and support structure, which are measured and analyzed by this method. Extension

of this work by Daniel and Mee [3] using finite element modeling led to the design of a three-

component force balance. The SWFM technique is based on the principle that, when stress

waves travels, no force equilibrium is reached in such a short duration of time so that the strain

histories are the crucial feature for developing force measurement techniques.

An investigation into internal and external force balances was undertaken by Robinson

et al. [4] which showed that a higher accuracy of the recovered force and moment loads was

attained using an external force balance. Also, for a blunt body, these authors found that the

interaction of external balance on the model forces was negligible when compared to that of an

internal balance. Some of the recent developments include comparing the experimental

measurements with CFD calculations by Boyce and Stumvoll [5], which showed good

agreement for a range of Mach numbers and test gases.

On the other hand, accelerometer-based force balance were used by Kulkarni and

Reddy [6] and Sahoo et al [7], which was a single-component accelerometer force balance. The

data were in accordance with modified Newtonian theory. Sahoo et al. [8], found that the drag

measured on a 30 degree semi-apex angle blunt cone model at Mach 5.75 with an accelerator-

based balance agreed closely to the SWFM technique.

3

1.2.1 Internal Force Balance

Internal force balances are defined as those that have the measuring instruments like

strain gages, accelerometers placed inside the model. The mounting system (sting) has to

adapt depending on the location of the force balance. Models are generally attached to a long

sting and placed in the test section of the tunnel. The geometry of the model has to

accommodate the sting. A common way to measure forces is by strain gages. Strain gages

work on the principle that when a load is applied, the stretching or deformation of the gage

causes a change in electrical resistance, details can be found in Section 1.2.3.

1.2.2 External Force Balance

External balances are those where the measuring instruments are located outside the

model but may be within the test section. The definition of external balances used to be

restricted those that are mounted outside the test section, which has been updated to balances

that are specifically external to the model, but which can be within the test section. The principle

of external balances is similar to that of internal balances but the difference is that the

measuring devices are placed on a supporting structure, such as a sting. The forces on the

model are transmitted as stress waves to the sting, which on deformation or bending creates

strain that is measured by the attached strain gages. Specifically for hypersonic shock tunnels,

external force balances that use stress wave propagation are named as Stress Wave Force

Balances (SWFB) [2].

During a run in an impulse facility, the sudden aerodynamic load initiates stress waves

in the model. The stress waves propagate and reflect between the model and the support

structure. A steady state of force equilibrium cannot be achieved between the model and the

support structure, since the duration of steady flow time is very minute. The SWFB concept

operates on the principle that no steady-state force equilibrium is achieved [9]. The force

balance forms a linear system, where the forces can be obtained by a deconvolution technique,

which is discussed further in a later chapter. A SWFB is suspended from the test section by

4

means of thin wires, with the strain gages mounted on the supporting sting. Different kinds of

materials have been used for SWFB construction such as brass, aluminum or steel.

1.2.3 Strain Gages

Strain gages are sensors that are used to measure strain or deformation. Strain gages

work by the principle that a strain in a metal or semi-conductor causes a change in resistance,

which when measured can be related to the strain. There are different types of strain gages,

namely, metallic foil gages and semiconductor strain gages, which can be either piezo-resistive

or piezoelectric. All resistance-based strain gages require an excitation voltage. A Wheatstone

bridge arrangement increases the sensitivity of the strain gage, thus allowing small changes in

strain to be measured.

1.2.4 Piezoelectric Film

Piezoelectric film gages are a type of transducer for measuring dynamic strain and are

used in high-frequency applications .Some of the features of piezo film are its flexibility, varying

thickness, lightweight and easy application. These gages have a large frequency range of up to

the order of 1 GHz. Some other properties include its dynamic range, high mechanical strength,

and temperature and humidity stability. Piezoelectric film can be adapted to various shapes and

can be bonded with commercial adhesives. Another feature is high voltage output, that can be

as high as 10 times higher than normal strain gages. Some disadvantages of piezoelectric films

are that they are sensitive to electromagnetic radiation, in such cases shielding becomes

important to avoid any kind of interference and ensuring a good signal-to-noise ratio.

Piezoelectric film gages do not require an external power source or excitation voltage.

Marineau [11] showed that a piezoelectric force balance has a higher frequency response than

a strain gage force balance. Both balances showed comparable levels of accuracy. The

piezoelectric balance shows a 350% increase in frequency response and 400% increase in

sensitivity.

5

1.2.5 Accelerometer

An accelerometer as the name suggests is a device that measures acceleration of an

object. It measures the rate of change of the velocity of the object relative to an inertial frame of

reference. The most common measuring unit is “g.” An accelerometer can also measure a

quantity of weight per unit mass (test mass), which has the dimensions of acceleration and is

also known as the g-force. Accelerometers are used in force measurements due to their high

sensitivity to vibrations and their high-frequency range.

1.3 Convolution

Convolution is mathematically an operation that involves multiplication, shifting and

addition. The reverse operation called deconvolution is used to calculate the input signal, when

the system's impulse response and its output signal are known. It can be difficult to understand

the convolution and deconvolution concepts in the time domain. More often, deconvolution is

carried out in the frequency domain. Multiplication in the frequency domain is equivalent to the

convolution operation in the time domain and likewise division in frequency domain acts like the

deconvolution operation in the time domain.

The expression for convolution is given by the formula

(1.1)

∗ (1.2)

where, y(t) is the output of the system , x(t) input to the system and h(t) is the transfer function

of the system. Convolution expressed in both continuous and discrete form is represented in

figure 1.1.

6

Figure 1.1 A linear input-output system a) continuous, b) discrete.

Due to the large number of multiplications and additions that must be performed in the

convolution algorithm, it can be inefficient when a large amount of data needs to be processed.

As stated above, the convolution could be made easy by multiplication in the frequency domain

via Fourier and inverse Fourier transforms, represented in equation (1.3).

(1.3)

A block diagram showing the input-output relationship in the time and frequency

domains is depicted in Fig. 1.2. Fourier transform is used to change a signal from time domain

to frequency domain. The reverse is done by inverse Fourier transform. The frequency

response is a complex function of frequency that can be expressed by a magnitude and a

phase spectrum.

Figure 1.2 The relationship of convolution in time domain and in the frequency domain [12].

Linear system h(t)

x(t) y(t)

x(n) y(n)Linear system h(n)

(a)

(b)

h(t)x(t) y(t)

IFT FT

IFT FT

h(f)x(f) y(f)

Time Domain

Frequency Domain

7

1.4 Objective of Research

The goal of this research is to design, calibrate and test a simple force balance system

that is capable of measuring drag on various models. As the test time is of very short duration,

force measurement becomes a challenge. To design this force balance system, an approach is

utilized to model the response of the balance using FEA. ANSYS Explicit Dynamics solver is

used for the dynamic analysis. Piezoelectric films were used to measure stress waves due to

aerodynamic loading. Deconvolution was used to determine the system transfer function and to

recover the force. The drag on a spherically blunted cone was measured and the drag

coefficient was compared with that obtained from modified Newtonian theory. Future efforts

would consist of extension of the force balance to measure other components of force, such as

lift and pitching moment. Force measurement on other models, such as conical model, inlets

and scramjet vehicles would be included.

8

CHAPTER 2

FACILITY

2.1 UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel at the Aerodynamics Research Center

The Hypersonic Shock Tunnel at the UTA Aerodynamics Research Center is a reflected

type. It was designed and built in the late 1980’s [13]. The main components of the hypersonic

shock tunnel include the driver section, driven tubes, nozzle, test section, diffuser and dump

tank, which are shown in figure 2.1.

This facility is able to simulate high Mach numbers and high enthalpy flows. The main

parts of this shock tunnel are:

Driver tube

Diaphragm section

Driven tubes

Nozzle

Test section

The shock tube is fabricated in four sections for ease of transportation, installation and

maintenance [14]. The driver tube is a single section which is designed for a maximum

operating driver pressure of 41.4 MPa (6000 psi) and hydrostatically tested to 62.1 MPa (9000

psi). The driver tube is 3 m (10 ft.) long with an internal diameter of 15.24 cm (6 in.) and a wall

thickness of 2.54 cm (1.0 in.). One end is closed off with a hemispherical end cap.

9

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11

The driven tube is constructed in three segments of 2.74 m (9 ft) length each. The three

segments are connected to each other with a flange at each end identical to the one on the

driver section. The internal diameter is the same as the driver tube. Two O-rings are located

between each connection to provide a good high-pressure seal.

The expansion nozzle was developed by LTV Aerospace and Defense Company,

presently a part of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. It was part of an arc-driven

hypervelocity wind tunnel facility and was subsequently donated to UTA. The end of the driven

tube has a special coupling for the nozzle insert and secondary diaphragm. The coupling

consists of several parts that form a locking system for the throat insert. The nozzle has

interchangeable throat inserts to provide a discrete test section Mach numbers of 5 to 16. The

nozzle has a length of 2.57 m (101 in), with an exit diameter of 33.6 cm (13.25 in) at the test

section [15].

The test section has a dimension of 53.6 cm (21.1 in.) in length and 44 cm (17.5 in.) in

diameter. It has circular access windows of 23 cm (9 in.) diameter facing each other on either

side. These two ports can be used as mounting ports or for optical windows [10]. The rear of

the test section has a conical converging section which leads into the diffuser. The dimensions

of the converging section are 38.1 cm (15 in) in diameter within the test section and it contracts

to a diameter of 31 cm (12.2 in) to the entrance of the diffuser. The flow is captured by the

converging section and generates the first shock wave necessary to slow the flow down in the

diffuser [15].

The dump tank is located outside the building and has a volume of 4.25 m3 (150 ft3).

The vacuum system vacuums the shock tunnel from the tank to the secondary diaphragm. A

35.6 cm (14 in) vacuum pipe is connected directly from the dump tank by a flange joint with a

double O-ring seal. A smaller 7.62 cm (3 in) diameter piping is used for connecting the vacuum

pump to the vacuum tank.

12

A high-pressure system is used to pressurize the driver tube. Another lower pressure

system is used to operate the remote control valves and the booster pump (Haskel model-

55696) on the high-pressure system. The high-pressure system consists of a 5-stage

compressor and a booster pump. The 5-stage compressor (Clark Model CMB-6) which is

located in the adjacent compressor building can provide dry air at up to 14.5 MPa (2100 psi).

The booster pump (Haskel Model 55696) is a two-stage booster pump which is used to attain

pressures of up to 41.4 MPa (6000 psi) in the driver tube. The Haskel pump uses dried, filtered

compressed air from the main compressor or helium supplied from 2200 psi bottles. The

pressurized gas is stored in a one meter diameter spherical storage tank which can hold

pressures up to 41.4 MPa (6000 psi).

The low pressure is generated by another compressor (Kellogg American inc. model-

DB462-C) which supplies dry air at 1.2 MPa (175 psi). Regulators are used to reduce the

pressure to 689.5 kPa (100 psi), which is needed for the booster pump operation. The low-

pressure compressed air (175 psi) is used by both the vacuum pump isolation valves and the

booster pump in the high-pressure system.

A secondary diaphragm separates the driven section from the test section. Both the

driven section and the test section including the nozzle have their own vacuum pumps. The

driven tube is vacuumed by a vacuum pump (Sargent-Welch Model 1376). This pump has a

free-air displacement of 300 liters per minute and is able of pumping down to 0.001 mmHg. The

test section is vacuumed by another vacuum pump (Sargent-Welch Model 1396) which is

connected to the dump tank. This pump is capable of a free-air displacement of 2800 liters per

minute and is able of achieving low pressures of up to 0.0001 mmHg. Vacuum is measured in

both the driven tube and the dump tank by a pressure gauge (MKS Baratron Type 127A). The

gauge has a full-scale range of 1000 mmHg and an accuracy of 0.1 mmHg.

13

2.2 Reconstruction of the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel

The hypersonic shock tunnel had not been in use for many years and had been

disassembled for a long time due to other research activities. Reconstruction was needed and

began in 2010, where some of the parts had to be repaired or replaced with redesigned parts.

The hypersonic shock tunnel began full operation by mid 2011.

The first steps involved were setting up the driven tube sections which included removal

of corrosion and cleaning the inner tube. The diaphragm section was attached back to the driver

segment. For obtaining a good vacuum, the system had to be rechecked to ensure good seal. A

schedule 40-steel pipe of 76 mm (3 in.) internal diameter and 2.13 m (7 ft.) length had to be

replaced and customized for convenient attachment to the external dump tank. Safety valves

from the dump tank had to be replaced. Due to corrosion of the inner surface of the tank, it was

cleaned and treated with Enrust™ to prevent further occurrence. Some components had to be

refabricated or redesigned. The throat locking mechanism for the nozzle inserts had to be

fabricated in 4340-stainless steel. A diffuser section was designed for convenient sting

installation. This section has five ports used for model mounting and instrumentation purposes.

2.3 Diaphragm Test

As mentioned before, the driver and driven tube are separated by double diaphragms

made of 1008 steel (10/12gage, 0.03 in. thickness). New thickness tests had to be conducted

for higher pressure in the range of 20~30MPa (3000~4500 psi). Thickness and scoring play

important roles for achieving proper rupture. In some tests, the petals were torn off, which are

undesirable. These steel diaphragms must be scored with a cross pattern on each run, for

perfect rupture. Several tests were conducted on the scoring depth and thickness of the plate,

to improve the quality of the rupture and to contain the needed pressure. The tests ensured a

clean rupture and minimal petal fragmentation. Detailed drawing is given in appendix A. The

special cross pattern, known as a cross potent in heraldry was made [15] with a CNC machine

for quick manufacturing and reduced cost. Moreover, CNC machining helps in maintaining

cons

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15

CHAPTER 3

DESIGN AND EXPERIMENTAL SETUP

3.1 Force Balance Design

An investigation was conducted by Robinson et al. [4] on both internal and external

balances to measure forces and moments using FEA (finite element analysis). Their analysis

showed that greater accuracy of the recovered forces and moments could be obtained with the

external force balance design. For the present work, the design of an external force balance

(stress wave force balance) was investigated. This balance has the ability of mounting a variety

of models. Some of the conceptual design requirements included:

1. Size constraint.

2. Strength of Balance and other components.

3. Model and support attachment

4. Strain gage and transducer placement.

6. Calibration ease

7. Machining simplicity

The force balance can only be accommodated in the limited room given by the

dimension of the test section, including the model. The design should be able to adapt to the

test section of the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel, which has a dimension of 53.6 cm (21.1 in.)

in length and 44 cm (17.5 in.) in diameter. The strength of the balance is important in deciding

on the type of material. Different type of metals including steel, stainless steel, brass and

aluminum were investigated.

16

Table 3.1 shows some properties of specific metals/ alloys.

Material Young's Modulus (GPa)

Maximum tensile strength (MPa)

Density (kg/m³)

Aluminum-6061-O 69 310 2700

Brass 97-105 550 8000-8730

Stainless steel, AISI 302 - cold-rolled

207 860 8190

Steel, API 5L X65 200 531 7600

For ease of manufacture, reduced weight and high strength, aluminum (Al-6061) was

chosen as a suitable material. Other materials used for the model and support bolts include

hardened steel and stainless steel. An FEA was used to assist in selecting a suitable force

balance design amongst a number of candidates. The first step was modeling simple stress

bars to understand the propagation of stress waves in solids. These stress bars were analyzed

in ANSYS using the Explicit Dynamics solver. All preliminary conceptual designs were modeled

using Catia V5 and analyzed using the FEA solver. Many other types of designs were analyzed,

as shown in figure 3.1.

prelim

front

and

show

woul

(f). D

to mo

singl

more

balan

heigh

draw

For strain

minary desig

, at the mode

(b) showed a

wed higher in

d not be prac

Design (f) was

odel the force

The force

e block desig

e at joints wh

nce. The forc

ht and 2.5 cm

wing of the forc

Fig

n gage placem

ns were ana

el mount locat

a large stress

nternal reflect

ctical. FEA de

s chosen con

e balance as a

e balance was

gn helped in

here member

e balance ha

m (1 in.) in wid

ce balance is

gure 3.1 Diffe

ment the slan

alyzed using

tion, details li

s concentratio

tions of stres

emonstrated t

nsidering all th

a single solid

s fabricated in

reducing the

rs are fasten

s a dimension

dth. The stres

s given in app

17

rent prelimina

nt faces are t

FEA by appl

mited to (f) is

on where the

ss waves tha

that most stra

he factors tha

piece for fab

n 6061 alumin

e stress con

ed together.

n of 20.9 cm

ss bars have

endix A.

ary designs.

the preferred

lying a simul

s explained in

e bolts are loc

an (f). Design

ain is seen on

at are mentio

rication ease

num alloy from

centration, w

Figure 3.2 s

(8.25 in.) in le

a 0.88 cm (0

stress bars.

lated impulse

n section 3.1.1

cated. Design

n (e) was co

n the stress b

ned above. It

.

m a single so

which tends to

shows the fab

ength, 10.8 c

.35 in.) thickn

The differen

e force to the

1. Designs (a

ns (c) and (d

omplex, which

bars of design

t was decided

olid block. The

o accumulate

bricated force

m (4.29 in.) in

ness. Detailed

nt

e

)

)

h

n

d

e

e

e

n

d

3.1.1

defor

The A

unde

used

equa

wherm isc isk isu isp(t) is

1 Finite Eleme

Finite elem

rmations, was

ANSYS Expli

er a time-vary

d for impact

ation of motion

re s the mass ofs the dampings the stiffnesss the displaces the vector o

Figure 3.2 F

ent Analysis

ment analysis

s used to ve

cit Dynamics

ying load typic

analysis, sho

n in structura

f the system, g coefficient , s constant , ements vectorof the time-va

abricated forc

s which helps

rify the stress

solver is use

cally with dura

ock propagat

l dynamic ana

r rying load.

18

ce balance (6

s to determine

s concentrati

ed to understa

ations of less

tion and stre

alysis is given

6061- aluminu

e stress distri

on and respo

and the dynam

than 1 secon

ess wave pro

n by,

um alloy)

ibution, displa

onse of the f

mic response

nd. This solve

opagation. Th

acements and

force balance

of a structure

er can also be

he differentia

(3.1

d

e.

e

e

al

)

19

At each point in time, the vectors of displacement , velocity and acceleration are

of particular interest to determine stress concentration of the balance and understand its

dynamic response.

A mesh was generated using the explicit meshing feature. Tetrahedral elements were

used to mesh the force balance. A total number of 34088 elements was used in the simulation.

A uniform mesh was generated with default size elements to respond to high frequencies of the

stress wave. Mesh refinement was used for computational efficiency, by maintaining larger

elements to insignificant areas and increasing relevance to areas of higher stress concentration.

Care was taken in this process, as a coarse mesh was not able to transmit high-frequency

information to the finer mesh [1]. Damping was not used in the simulation, so as to acquire high

frequency stress waves. For computational ease, the balance was analyzed without the other

small components. Figure 3.3 shows the mesh of the force balance.

Figure 3.3 Generated mesh of the force balance using explicit dynamics.

The force balance was modeled as a rigid body, the top surface, a fixed support and

the simulated force was applied from the front face, which is shown in figure 3.4. The time step

is co

solut

ontrolled by th

tion time step

Figu

Fig

he smallest e

was 0.085 µs

ure 3.4. Anal

gure 3.5 Strai

element size,

s.

ysis settings,

n concentratio

20

which is use

force is appl

on in stress b

ed to progress

ied from the f

bars of the for

s the solution

front surface.

rce balance.

n in time. The

e

21

From the solution of the stress analysis, it can be seen that stresses are prominent on

the two stress bars, figure 3.5. Animation results show that stress waves move from the front of

the axial bar towards the stress bar and then to the rear of the axial bar. Reflections of stress

waves occur in the stress bars. These results are shown in figure 3.9.

First analysis was to determine the response of the force balance to a simulated

impulse force, figure 3.6. The pulse of 220 µs width, was applied to the front surface, with

maximum amplitude of 350 N (78.6 lbf). Strain was monitored on two locations, on the top

surface of the axial bar (location 1) and on the stress bar (location 2), as shown in figure 3.4.

Figure 3.7 (a) shows the strain output on location 1, which resembles the input impulse. The

response of location 2 is shown in figure 3.7 (b). Many reflections are seen in the response of

this location due to various wave reflections in the stress bar. From the simulation, a transfer

function was obtained from the strain-history of locations 1 and 2. The next analysis was to find

the response of the force balance to a simulated step load. The step load (100 µs rise time) of

222.4 N (50 lbf) was applied to the model for a period of 4 ms. The step load and step

response on location 2 can be seen in figure 3.8.

Figure 3.6 Simulated input load of 350 N. The pulse starts at 90 µs.

The

funct

demo

succ

Figurstarts

input step lo

tion. FEA sho

onstrated pos

essfully recov

re 3.7 Respos at 90 µs.

Figure 3.8

oad was reco

owed the dyn

sitions to plac

vered.

(a)

onse to the s

(a)

8 (a)Simulated

overed by de

namic behavio

ce the strain g

simulated imp

d step load of

22

econvolution o

our of the forc

gages. It helpe

pulse at (a) lo

.

f 222.4 N and

of the step r

ce balance to

ed in showing

ocation 1 and

d (b) step resp

response with

o impulsive fo

g that input fo

(b)

d (b) location

(b

ponse of locat

h the transfe

orces and also

orces could be

n 2.The pulse

)

tion 2.

er

o

e

e

Figure 3.9 AAnimated result shows the

23

e stress wave propagation in the force bbalance.

3.1.2

attac

conv

botto

draw

and

mode

degre

show

mode

was

throu

reces

press

2 Force Balan

A 12.7 m

chment. Two

veniently into

om for attachm

wing given in a

A blunt co

comparing th

el was made

ees. The mod

ws a photogr

el was design

designed to

ugh the base

ss of 4.5 mm

sure transduc

nce Construct

mm (1/2-in.)

12.7 mm 1/2-

the test sec

ment as need

appendix A.

one model wa

hem to the pr

e of steel with

del was 88.9

raph of the b

ned to hold a

firmly embrac

of the mode

m (0.18 in.). T

cer holder are

Figure 3.10

tion

threaded ho

-in. threaded

ction. Two 6.3

ded. Figure 3.

as chosen to

rediction, whi

h a base rad

mm (3.5 in.)

blunt cone. F

PCB 113A21

ce the transd

el to the nose

The design s

e given in the

0 Blunt cone m

24

le in the fro

holes were a

3 mm (1/4-in

.2 shows the

o validate the

ch will be dis

ius of 40 mm

long and it we

For simultane

1 pressure tra

ducer. This ho

e of the cone

specification

Appendix A.

model (a) side

ont of the ba

vailable at the

n.) threaded

fabricated for

force balanc

scussed in se

m (1.575 in.)

eighs about 9

eous pitot pre

ansducer. A p

older was tigh

e. The pitot p

of both the b

e view (b) fron

alance is use

e top to attac

holes were lo

rce balance w

ce by measur

ection 5.2. Th

and a semi-

907.1 g (2 lbs

essure meas

pressure tran

htened from

pressure tran

blunt cone m

nt view.

ed for mode

ch the balance

ocated at the

with a detailed

ing the forces

he blunt cone

-angle of 18.5

s). Figure 3.10

urements the

sducer holde

the centerline

sducer had a

model and the

el

e

e

d

s

e

5

0

e

er

e

a

e

25

Another component that was used was a two-sided bolt, with a hole drilled through it.

This bolt was used to connect the model to the force balance and take out the coax cable from

the pressure transducer. A 12.7 mm (1/2 in.) thread on one side was used for balance

attachment and a 17.4 mm (11/16 in.) thread was used for model attachment. The overall length

of the bolt was 96.5 mm (3.8 in.). Another feature of this bolt is its hinge design, so that the

angle of attack of the model can be changed, from 5 to +5 deg. Due to this feature, the bolt

made of 4140 steel was additionally hardened and drawn, making it strong enough to withstand

high impact loading. Detailed drawings of parts of the bolt are given in appendix A.

Figure 3.11 Hardened steel bolt, the larger pin is used to change the angle of attack and the other pin is used to lock the position.

The hardened steel bolt was screwed into the base of the model with required wiring

lead taken out. This assembly consisting of the model and the hardened steel bolt was attached

26

to the front of the force balance, thus in the centerline. Piezoelectric film gages (Measurement

Specialties Model DT1-052k) were used to measure the stress waves. Two gages were used,

one on the stress bar and the other behind the model on the balance aligned with the axis. The

gages were shielded with copper foil to prevent EMI (electromagnetic interference). Care was

also taken to protect the gages from direct pressure exerted during flow by wrapping PVC/

rubber around them, which was then sealed with electrical tape.

Figure 3.12 Installed model and balance in the test section. The support structure can be seen on the top.

Additional strain gages (Omega Model SGD-3/120-LY13) were used for static

calibration. These gages were installed on the centerline of the first stress bar in a Wheatstone

bridge arrangement. A full-bridge mode was chosen since it gives maximum sensitivity to strain

and also provides temperature compensation. M-bond 200 adhesive and conditioner were used

as adhesive for attaching the strain gages. The finished gages were then given a protective

coating of M-coat c. Figure 3.13 shows the installed gages on the front bar. The strain gage

27

signal was amplified with a strain gage amplifier (Paine Model strain gage amplifier) with a gain

of 100 and an excitation of 10 V.

Figure 3.13 Two strain gages are seen on the stress bar, the other two gages of the full bridge are attached to the lower surface of the stress bar.

Two holes of 12.7 mm (1/2-in.) diameter, a distance of 11.6 mm (4.6-in.) apart, were

drilled from the top of test section. The force balance assembly was attached to the ceiling of

the test section by two hardened steel bolts. A 5.5 mm (7/32-in.) diameter hole was drilled into

each bolt for channeling wiring from the test model and force balance to outside the tunnel.

These holes were later sealed from both inside and outside. For adjusting the alignment and

28

height of the force balance an aluminum block of dimensions 2.5 cm × 2.5 cm × 15.2 cm (1 in. ×

1 in. × 6 in.) was installed between the balance and the ceiling. The model-balance assembly

was attached to the aluminum block by two 12.7 mm (1/2-in.) steel bolts. Steel washers and

rubber washers/bushings where placed in all bolt connections for damping. Figure 3.14 shows

the force balance-model assembly attached in the test section.

Figure 3.14 The force balance with the model, view from front of the nozzle.

29

3.2 Calibration Techniques

3.2.1 Static Calibration

Static calibration is done by loading the force balance system with known weights and

measuring the output for each increasing load. After loading the balance unloading is performed

in like manner. This procedure helps to characterize the linearity and the possibility of hysteresis

in the system. Figure 3.15 shows a sketch of the static calibration procedure.

Figure 3.15 Schematic of the static calibration procedure.

Static calibration was performed on a thrust stand by holding the force balance rigidly.

Steel wire rope was attached to the blunt cone using the pressure transducer holder by

tightening the holder inside the cone. The steel wire was tied to a digital scale (AWS model-TL-

440), which had a maximum load range of 1957 N (440 lbf). A turnbuckle was used to connect

the weighing scale rigidly to an anchor bolt in the thrust stand. Tension was applied to the

model-balance assembly by tightening the turnbuckle. The force was progressively applied, up

to a maximum of 1423 N (320 lb). The strain was noted down for each load. Table 3.2 shows

30

the applied loads. For this calibration the foil strain gages were used as they can measure the

applied static loads. The same procedure was done for unloading the force. Figure 3.16 shows

the strain gage output voltage versus applied force on the balance system, for both the loading

and unloading case. No significant hysteresis was seen in the static calibration. The trendline

equation V=0.003F+0.003, R2=0.999, for loading and the trendline equation is V=0.0003F

+0.009, R2=0.995 clearly show a linear relationship between the applied load and strain.

Figure 3.16 Static loading and unloading of force balance.

0.00

0.05

0.10

0.15

0.20

0.25

0.30

0.35

0.40

0.45

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600

Voltage , (V)

Force (N)

Loading

Unloading

31

Table 3.2 Static calibration results.

Another approach that was performed for static calibration was using an impulse

hammer (PCB Model 086C01) and averaging the output for different input hammer forces. For

this method, piezoelectric films were used to measure the dynamic strain. Since these

piezoelectric films measure dynamic forces, the output forces were averaged. Given that the

output of the piezoelectric film gages oscillates around zero, the average would give values

close to zero, therefore the rms value of the output voltage was calculated. Thus the sensitivity

constant can be determined. The trendline equation of V=7E-05F +0.003, R2=0.953 of figure

3.17, shows the linear relation formed by averaging output of different hammer hits, with

different force values.

Mass (lbs) Force (N) Strain gage output voltage (V)

Loading of weight Unloading of weight

0 0.0 0.000 0.000

20 88.9 0.025 0.030

40 177.9 0.047 0.054

60 266.8 0.071 0.077

80 355.8 0.097 0.101

100 444.8 0.119 0.132

120 533.7 0.141 0.156

140 622.7 0.167 0.178

160 711.7 0.188 0.209

180 800.6 0.212 0.232

200 889.6 0.232 0.257

220 978.6 0.254 0.280

240 1067.5 0.276 0.304

260 1156.5 0.298 0.321

280 1245.5 0.320 0.339

300 1334.4 0.349 0.355

320 1423.4 0.369 0.373

32

0.000

0.005

0.010

0.015

0.020

0.025

0.030

0.035

0.040

0.045

0.050

0 100 200 300 400 500

Averaged Voltage (V)

Force (N)

Figure 3.17 Plot of average film output versus applied hammer force.

3.2.2 Dynamic Calibration

Dynamic calibration is performed to characterize the balance behavior when a sudden

load (impulse force) acts on a system. Dynamic calibration is performed by different methods

including hammer impulse excitation. A perfect impulse will excite all the frequencies of a

system, which consist of the model and the force balance. Other ways of calibrating is creating

a step load by hanging weights from a wire and cutting the wire. This type of calibration can be

done both horizontally and vertically. Drop test calibration is a procedure of suspending the

balance and cutting the wire above the balance, thus creating a step response. For the drop test

calibration, care must be taken to prevent damage from impact. Figure 3.18 is a sketch of a cut

weight test. The balance and model system are attached from the top and a known mass is

suspended from the end of the model through a pulley. The wire is then cut near to the model

creating a step response, measured with the gages.

33

Figure 3.18 Sketch of a cut weight test.

Cut weight test was also performed vertically, since vibrations can occur in the step response

when using a pulley as support. This arrangement is seen in figure 3.19.

Figure 3.19 Vertical cut weight test

as th

A sc

hamm

483A

outpu

Appe

tips,

Tests

damp

tips w

and t

signa

the im

smal

Dynamic

he transfer fun

chematic of th

mer was used

A) was utilize

ut strain. Da

endix C for d

consisting of

s showed tha

ped higher fre

were used to

the strain out

al takes more

mpact hamm

l pulses due t

calibration is

nction. Calibra

his calibration

d with the mo

ed for the ham

ata were reco

details). The s

f metal, plasti

at the metal

equency and

create the im

put. A detail o

e than 1 ms to

er care was t

to the bounce

Figure 3.2

performed to

ation is done

n is shown in

odel installed

mmer signal.

orded using

sampling rate

c and rubber

tip excited t

created impu

mpulse. Figur

of the pulse w

o reach back

taken to obta

e of the hamm

20 Schematic

34

o find the for

by striking th

n figure 3.20

in the test se

The piezoel

an oscillosco

e for the calib

r were tested

he system w

ulses of larger

re 3.21 illustra

with the metal

to its steady

ain a good pu

mer.

c of impulse h

rce balance c

he model with

. A PCB Mo

ection. A signa

ectric films w

ope (Tektron

bration was 2

to determine

with higher fre

r pulse width.

ates the raw

tip is shown

state, right a

ulse. A poor s

hammer calibr

characteristics

h an instrumen

del 086C01

al conditioner

were used to

ix Model DP

25MS/s. Diffe

e one that is m

equencies. T

Both the met

data of a ham

in figure 3.22

after the pulse

strike will crea

ration

s, also known

nted hammer

impulse force

r (PCB Model

measure the

PO 4054, see

erent hamme

most suitable

The rubber tip

tal and plastic

mmer impulse

2, the hamme

e. When using

ate a string o

n

r.

e

-

e

e

er

e.

p

c

e

er

g

of

Figurtaken

F

re 3.21 Raw n over duratio

Figure 3.22 Sa

data of a haon of 150 ms

ample hamme

ammer impuls(below).

er impulse cre

35

se (above) an

eated by strik

nd the respon

king the metal

nse of the ha

l tip on the mo

ammer impac

odel cone.

ct

36

To form the transfer function (impulse response), the obtained strain output is

deconvolved with the hammer impulse. As mentioned before, a poor hammer strike can result in

obtaining an inaccurate transfer function. The hammer strike can be verified, since theoretically

convolution of an ideal impulse with a unit step results in a perfect step response. Matlab™ was

used to create a unit step (start at t=0) as shown in figure 3.25. The hammer impulse was

convolved with this unit step. The resultant convolved signal is illustrated in figure 3.23. This

signal was compared with a simulated step response, which is formed by convolving a modified

impulse with the unit step [9]. This modified impulse was created by padding zeroes right after

the pulse of the hammer strike, as shown in figure 3.26. The pulse was identified to have a

width of approximately 487µs, as illustrated in figure 3.27.

Figure 3.23 Check signal of both raw hammer signal and modified hammer signal.

A detailed view of the check signal is shown in figure 3.24. The error bar shows the

deviation of the signal from the modified pulse signal. The hammer check signal agrees with the

perfect step response. An error estimate on the signal shows variation of ± 0.6 %. It may be

conc

pulse

cluded that the

e of the hamm

ese variations

mer strike, (fig

Figure

Fi

s in the hamm

gure 3.22) is n

e 3.24 Detaile

igure 3.25 Si

37

mer check sig

not zero.

ed view of che

imulated unit

gnal is becaus

eck signal wit

step input.

se the mean

th error bar

right after the

e

from

Figurappro

The pulse

200 to 500 µ

re 3.27 Enlaoximately 487

e width chang

s.

Fig

arged view o7µs.

ges for each

gure 3.26 Mo

of the pulse

38

hammer impu

odified hamm

of the modi

ulse, the calib

mer impulse.

ified hammer

bration pulse

r impulse. P

width ranged

ulse width is

d

s

was

was

using

figure

each

deco

frequ

FigurJMEC

funct

Througho

found by dec

tested in two

g functional m

e 3.28 it can

h other. Both

onvoluted sign

uency compon

re 3.28 ComCG)

The impu

tion (FRF). F

out this work,

convolution o

o ways, one u

minimization w

be seen tha

methods ca

nals had to b

nents. A ten-p

mparison of

ulse response

From the FRF

Matlab™ wa

of the pulse o

using FFT alg

with extended

at both the sig

an be used in

be filtered aga

point moving-

the impulse

e in the frequ

F shown in fi

39

as used for d

output with th

gorithm and th

d conjugate g

gnals, obtaine

n determining

ain, since the

-average filter

response ob

uency domain

igure 3.29, th

data processi

he hammer im

he other itera

gradient algo

ed by FFT an

g the impulse

e deconvoluti

r was used fo

btained using

n is known a

he higher fre

ng. The impu

mpulse. The d

ative deconvo

rithm (JMECG

nd JMECG ag

e response.

on method a

or this samplin

g two metho

as the freque

quencies mig

ulse response

deconvolution

lution method

G) [16]. From

gree well with

The obtained

amplifies high

ng rate.

ods (FFT and

ncy response

ght be due to

e

n

d

m

h

d

-

d

e

o

intern

syste

spec

Figurfrequ

nal reflection

em character

ctrum of the si

re 3.29 Poweuencies.

Figure 3

of stress w

istics. A deta

ignal is illustra

er spectral d

3.30 Enlarged

aves. The re

ailed view of t

ated figure 3.

ensity plot of

d power spec

40

esulting frequ

the first 12 k

31.

f frequency r

ctral density p

uency respon

kHz is shown

response fun

lot of FRF for

nse describes

in figure 3.3

ction showin

r the first 12 k

s the balance

0. The phase

g the various

kHz.

e

e

s

which

trans

frequ

red. T

Figure

Matlab™

h is shown in

sform. The s

uencies are e

The first mod

e 3.31 Enlarge

was used to

n Figure 3.32

pectrogram s

xcited, this is

e shows the

F

ed view of ph

o create a spe

2. The spectr

shows the fre

s due to the h

maximum am

Figure 3.32 Sp

41

ase spectrum

ectrogram of t

rogram was c

equency vari

ammer impul

mplitude.

.

pectrogram o

m of FRF for t

the frequency

calculated us

iation with tim

lse. The mod

f the FRF.

he first 12 kH

y response fu

sing the shor

me. At any p

es of vibratio

Hz.

unction (FRF)

rt-time Fourie

point of time

n are seen as

),

er

e,

s

42

3.3 Shock Tunnel Testing

The experiments were conducted with the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel, using air as

the driver gas. Steel diaphragms were used in the double diaphragm section as mentioned in

chapter 1. The secondary diaphragm was made of mylar (0.010 in. thickness). For the tests, a

Mach 10 nozzle insert was used.

CEA (Chemical Equilibrium with Applications) was used in calculating reflected shock

conditions. The flow was considered a frozen composition. Shock velocity was calculated using

two pressure transducers (PCB Model-111A23), which were located 82.5 cm (32.5 in.) and

219.7 mm (86.5 in.) from the end of the driven section. The free stream flow conditions were

found using the perfect gas relations, which are summarized in table 3.3. For the experiments

all the signals including the pitot pressure, force data and pressure transducers in the driven

tube (CH1 and CH2) were recorded simultaneously using an oscilloscope (Tektronix Model

DPO 4054, see Appendix C for details). A rising edge trigger was used for the first pressure

transducer (CH1) for a level of 300 mV. It was set to ensure no loss of data and capture all

signals. The data were sampled at 25 MS/s and for a duration of 40 ms.

Table 3.3 Test conditions.

Condition No:

M∞ P0

(MPa) ρo

(kg/m3) T0 (K)

p∞ (Pa)

ρ∞ (kg/m3)

T∞ (K)

V∞ (m/s)

H0 (MJ/kg)

Condition

1 9.441 2.68 10.22 914.6 72.89 4.95E-03 51.3 1344.9 0.65

Condition

2 9.427 2.705 10.21 923.7 73.76 4.93E-03 52.0 1352.3 0.66

43

CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 Force Measurement Prediction

4.1.1 Modified Newtonian Theory

Newtonian theory assumes that the oncoming flow can be considered of as continuous

stream of particles. When the particles hit a surface at high speeds, they lose all their

momentum perpendicular to the surface. The pressure coefficient predicted by Newtonian

theory is given by

2sin (4.1)

This equation shows that the pressure distribution is related to the square of the inclination

angle. The modified Newtonian theory was proposed by Lees in 1955 so that the pressure is a

function of M∞:

, 1 (4.2)

where, Cp,max is the maximum pressure coefficient behind a normal shock wave, at the

stagnation point. ∞

is calculated using the Rayleigh pitot formula [18] :

(4.3)

44

The axial force coefficient is calculated by the following relation [17],

2C , 0.25 cos 1 sin (4.4)

0.125 sin cos

cos sin 0.50 sin cos

⁄ cos

tan cos

⁄ cos

2tan

where,

RN is the nose radius of the blunt cone

RB is the base radius of the blunt cone

θc is the half cone angle

α is the angle of attack

The normal force coefficient is calculated by the following relation [17],

2C , 0.25 cos (4.5)

cos

2

The following relation is used to calculate Lift-to-Drag ratio:

(4.6)

Drag

Eqns

The

of an

Figurattac

g is calculated

s. (4.8) and (4

axial and nor

ngles of attack

re 4.1 Plot of ck.

d by using the

4.9) into (4.7)

rmal force co

k from 0 to 15

(a) coefficien

e relation

yields

efficients, coe

5 deg which a

nt of drag vs.

45

D ρv

efficients of li

are summarize

angle of atta

S C

ift and drag w

ed in Tables 4

ack and (b) co

were estimate

4.1 and 4.2.

oefficient of li

(4.7

(4.8

(4.9

(4.10

ed for a range

ft vs. angle o

)

8)

9)

)

e

of

46

Table 4.1 Force prediction using modified Newtonian theory using condition 1.

Angle of Attack

(α) Ca Cn Cl Cd L/D

0 0.2697 0 0 0.2697 0 5 0.2736 0.1427 0.1183 0.2850 0.4152 10 0.2852 0.2780 0.2243 0.3291 0.6814 15 0.3041 0.3991 0.3067 0.3971 0.7725

Table 4.2 Force prediction using modified Newtonian theory using condition 2.

Angle of Attack (α) Ca Cn Cl Cd L/D

0 0.2692 0 0 0.2692 0 5 0.2732 0.1427 0.1184 0.2846 0.4160 10 0.2848 0.2781 0.2244 0.3287 0.6826 15 0.3038 0.3991 0.3069 0.3967 0.7736

4.1.2 Coefficient of Drag Calculation using Pitot Pressure

The following equation shows how force coefficients are found by normalizing the force

history by the pitot pressure using a suitable scaling factor [9],

From equation 4.7

(4.11)

The Rayleigh-pitot formula given in equation 4.5 can be also written as [9],

(4.12)

47

For high values of M∞, when 2 ≫ 1 , equation 4.12 can be approximated as,

(4.13)

(4.14)

(4.15)

Substituting these into equation 4.13 we get

(4.16)

Substituting in equation 4.16

(4.17)

For a given flow condition and S remain constant, therefore drag coefficient is expressed as

(4.18)

Measuring the pitot pressure along with the force during an experiment can be used to estimate

the force coefficient, which also varies with time.

were

recov

secti

the fl

decre

decre

which

on th

trend

The pred

e compared.

vered force o

on 4.1.2. An a

Figu

It can be

low arrival the

ease. This is

ease in the c

h would also

his low freque

d as the pitot s

icted values

Figure 4.2

of condition 1

average take

ure 4.2 Coeffi

seen that ap

e drag coeffic

due to increa

coefficient of d

account for

ency vibration

signal.

4.2 Expe

using the mo

is a plot of

. This data w

n from 175 µs

cient of drag

pproximately t

cient remains

ase in pressu

drag [9]. A lo

the unsteady

. Figure 4.5 s

48

erimental Res

odified Newto

the coefficie

was normaliz

s to 275 µs is

from the reco

the first 120

steady for a

re at the base

ow frequency

y drag force.

shows that the

sults

onian theory

ent of drag h

ed with the p

s also shown

overed force (

µs is the flow

period of 100

e of the cone

oscillation w

Further inves

e recovered fo

and the reco

history obtain

pitot pressure

in the figure.

(condition 1).

w commencin

0 µs and is th

, which would

was found in t

stigations nee

orce data follo

overed forces

ned from the

e as shown in

ng stage, afte

hen noticed to

d describe the

the test signa

ed to be done

ows the same

s

e

n

r

o

e

al

e

e

The r

µs is

raw pitot pres

shown in figu

Figure 4.3

ssure signal is

ure 4.5. The d

3 Recovered d

s shown in fig

data was filter

Figure 4.4

49

drag force an

gure 4.4, a de

red using a 2

4 Raw pitot s

nd theoretical

etail of the pito

0 kHz low-pa

ignal.

force.

ot pressure fo

ss Butterwort

or the first 400

th filter.

0

Figur

Coef

the re

re 4.5 First 40

The resu

fficient of dra

ecovered forc

Figu

00 µs of the p

lts for condit

g history obta

ce.

ure 4.6 Coeffi

pitot pressure

tion 2 are sh

ained from th

cient of drag 50

and drag. A 2

hown in figur

he recovered

from the reco

20 kHz low pa

res below. F

force of con

overed force (

ass filter was

igure 4.6 is

dition 2. Figu

(condition 2).

used.

a plot of the

ure 4.7 shows

e

s

The r

4.9. T

raw pitot pres

The data was

ssure signal is

s filtered using

Figure 4.7 R

s shown in fig

g a 20 kHz low

Figure 4.8

51

Recovered dra

gure 4.8, a de

w-pass Butte

8 Raw pitot s

ag force.

etail for the firs

rworth filter.

ignal.

st 400µs is shhown in figuree

From

meas

table

varia

detai

C

Figure 4.9

m the experim

sured pitot p

e 4.3. Δ % i

ations seen in

il in chapter 5

Condition no

1

2

9 First 400 µs

mental results

ressure. The

is the differe

n the recovere

5.

Table 4.3 C

: Drage(N)

16.9 ± 8

13.6 ± 1

s of the pitot p

s it is seen

e experimenta

ence betwee

ed drag, migh

Comparison o

exp Dra

8.9 % 1

9.6 % 1

52

pressure. A 2

that the reco

al to theoretic

en the theor

ht be due to

of experimenta

agtheory (N)

17.9

18.0

0 kHz low-pa

overed drag

cal drag com

retical and e

several facto

al to theoretic

Δ %

5.9

32.3

ass filter was u

is in accorda

mparison is su

experimental

ors, which are

cal drag

Coefficientcoeffic

0.199 ±

0.128 ±

used.

ance with the

ummarized in

values. The

e discussed in

t of drag ient

± 7.8

± 27.9

e

n

e

n

53

CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK

Due to the short duration in impulse hypersonic shock tunnels, it is difficult to measure

accurately the aerodynamic forces. Since the test time is very small, force equilibrium may not

be reached between the model and the balance structure. The stress wave force balance

(SWFB) is a method used to analyze the stress waves formed during aerodynamic loading.

5.1 Force Balance in the UTA Hypersonic Shock Tunnel

A force balance was designed for measuring forces on aerodynamic models. In the

present work, drag was measured for a blunt cone using the force balance. The force balance

system included the model, which was fabricated in steel and the force balance, made of 6061

aluminum alloy. Several designs were investigated before the actual fabrication. Some of the

limitations in the design included the size of the balance, amount of load the balance must

withstand, model and support attachment and machining simplicity. The force balance was

designed to fit in the hypersonic shock tunnel test section, allowing room for support

attachments, model attachment and wiring. FEA (Finite Element Analysis) was used to

determine the dynamic characteristics of the force balance under high impact loading. It was

also performed to be certain of the maximum loads the force balance could resist.

Piezoelectric film gages and strain gages were used to measure forces. Both static and

dynamic calibrations were performed. The static calibration involved loading the force balance

with increments of known weights and measuring the strain for each weight. The same

procedure was also done for unloading the weights. These results were plotted to obtain a

linear relationship. Dynamic calibration was done by pulse excitation using an impulse force

hammer. The input by a hammer hit and the output was obtained from the piezoelectric film

54

gages. From the impulse hammer tests an impulse response/ transfer function was determined.

Another dynamic calibration carried out was vertical and horizontal cut weight tests. These tests

involved hanging known weights to the model by steel wires and cutting the wire, thereby

creating a step load. These step loads were deconvoluted with the obtained transfer function to

recover the step input.

The model used in experiments was a blunt cone made of steel. It was designed such

that a pitot pressure measurement was taken simultaneously. The model and balance assembly

was then installed from the top in the test section. The required wiring was taken out of the test

section through drilled bolts, which were sealed. The instrumented gages were shielded to

prevent electromagnetic interference and sealed in rubber and electrical tape. Tests were

conducted with conditions mentioned in chapter 4. All the data signals including the pitot

pressure, force data and pressure transducers in the driven tube (CH1 and CH2) were recorded

simultaneously using an oscilloscope ( see Appendix C).

The strain data was processed and deconvolved with the transfer function, to recover

the drag. Deconvolution was performed using an iterative algorithm [16]. A low frequency

vibration was noticed in the signal of the measured force, before the incident shock reached the

pressure transducers in the driven tubes. From each of the primary tests, this mentioned

vibration occurred, which led to the conclusion that a vibration is due to the test section

movement. An approach was made to tighten down the test section using steel wire rope and

turnbuckles. Tests showed that these oscillations persisted. Therefore, it may be concluded that

stress waves formed by the sudden rupture of the diaphragms have affected the drag

measurements.

55

5.2 Future Work and Recommendations

The following points may be included for future work for force measurements:

Develop an isolation system to reduce the initial vibrations in the force signal.

Force measurement with other models

Analyzing the flow with CFD simulations.

Tests at different enthalpy levels.

Calculate three components of force, such as, lift, drag and pitching moment.

Compensation of inertial forces due to tunnel movement using accelerometers.

Analyze signals in time-frequency representation using wavelet transform.

From the recovered drag, it can be seen that the signal follows the pitot pressure but

that there is also a fluctuation in drag, which is accounted by the occurrence of these low

frequency vibration. Further investigations need to be done on developing methods to decrease

these low frequency oscillations, by using springs, rubber dampers etc. Some of the

recommendation include, but are not limited to tests with simple shield design and compare the

results. Also, test the model at different angle of attacks and compare the drag. Care must also

be taken with the piezoelectric films, since they are very sensitive to EMI (electromagnetic

interference). Any power source close to the tunnel must be avoided, which can result in

erroneous values.

56

APPENDIX A

LIST OF DESIGN DRAWINGS

57

Figure A.1 Force balance drawing.

58

Figure A.2 Blunt cone model drawing.

59

Figure A.3 PCB pressure transducer holder drawing.

60

Figure A.4 Hinge joint part 1 drawing.

61

Figure A.5

5 Hinge part 2 drawwing.

62

Figure A.6 Scoring pattern on steel diaphragm drawing (courtesy Tiago Rolim).

63

APPENDIX B

MATLAB PROGRAM FOR FORCE ESTIMATION

64

%xxx Program to calculate Axial, Normal force coefficient and L/D xxx% xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx clc clear all for j=1:4 in=input('*********************\nTo find Axial,Normal force coefficient and L/D press 1: \nTo find Cpt press 2:\nTo find Pressure ratio press 3:\n********************* '); Rb=1.65; Rn=0.355; theta=9; phi=asin(cos(theta)); r=0; L=0; d=Rb/Rn; gamma=1.4; M=4.3; if in==3 %%%xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx pressure ratio calculation xxxxxxxxxxxxx Cpt=input('Enter Cpt , if known : ') ; gamma=input('Enter specific heat ratio : '); M=input('Enter Mach no: '); pressure_ratio =(((gamma+1)*M^2)/2)^(gamma/(gamma- 1))*((gamma+1)/((2*gamma*M^2)-(gamma-1)))^(1/(gamma-1)) x=pressure_ratio; plot(M,x ,'*b'); xlabel('Mach no: ,M') ylabel('Pressure ratio , Pt2/P1') %xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Cpt calculation xxxxxxxx elseif in~=(1:3) return elseif in==2 x=input('Enter pressure ratio : '); gamma=input('Enter specific heat ratio : '); M=input('Enter Mach no: '); Cpt=(((x)-1)*(2/(gamma*M^2))) %%%xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx L/D xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx elseif in==1

65

for i=1:1 Cpt= input('Enter Cpt: '); Rb=input('Enter Base Radius: '); Rn=input('Enter Nose Radius: '); theta=input('Cone half Angle : '); phi=asin(cos(theta)); r=0; x=0; L=0; d=Rb/Rn; gamma=input('Enter specific heat ratio : '); M=input('Enter Mach no: '); alpha=-15:0.5:15; Cp=Cpt*(sind(theta))^2 plot(alpha,Cp,'*r') hold on xlabel('Angle of Attack,Alpha') ylabel('Axial Force Coefficient, Ca') a=2*Cpt*((Rn^2)/Rb^2); b=0.25.*(cosd(alpha).^2).*(1-(sind(theta)^4))+(0.125.*(sind(alpha).^2)*(cosd(theta).^4)); c=((tand(theta).*((cosd(alpha).^2)*(sind(theta).^2)+0.5.*(sind(alpha).^2).*(cosd(theta).^2))).*((((d-cosd(theta)).*cosd(theta))/tand(theta))+(((d-cosd(theta)).^2)/(2*tand(theta))))); Ca=a*(b+c); plot(alpha,Ca,'*-r') hold on title('Axial Force Coefficient vs Angle of Attack (Alpha)') xlabel('Angle of Attack, Alpha') ylabel('Axial Force Coefficient, Ca') p=2*Cpt*((Rn^2)/Rb^2); q=0.25.*sind(alpha).*cosd(alpha).*(cosd(theta)^4); r=(sind(alpha).*cosd(alpha).*sind(theta).*cosd(alpha).*((((d-cosd(theta)).*cosd(theta))/tand(theta))+(((d-cosd(theta)).^2)/(2*tand(theta))))); Cn=p*(q+r); figure plot(alpha,Cn,'*-black') title('Normal Force Coefficient vs Angle of Attack (Alpha)') xlabel('Angle of Attack,Alpha') ylabel('Normal Force Coefficient, Cn') CL=((Cn.* cosd(alpha))-(Ca.*sind(alpha))); CD=((Cn.* sind(alpha))+(Ca.*cosd(alpha))); L_D= CL./CD figure

66

plot(alpha,L_D,'*-g') drawnow title('L/D ratio vs Angle of Attack (Alpha)') xlabel('Angle of Attack,Alpha') ylabel('L/D ') hold on end end end

67

APPENDIX C

INSTRUMENTATION DETAILS

68

C.1 Data acquisition

Manufacturer: Tektronix Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope. Model: DPO 4054

Features: Analog bandwidth – 500 Mhz Sample rate – 2.5 GS/s Record length – 20 M points Analog channels – 4

C. 2 Strain measurements

Manufacturer: Measurement specialties Model: DT1-052k Features: Min. impedance – 1MΩ

Output voltage – mV to 100’s of volt Operating temp – -40 to 60°C

Manufacturer: Omega engineering, Inc. Model: SGD-3/120-LY13 Features: Max Vrms – 4.5

Nom. Resistance – 120 Gage Factor – 2.0 ± 5% Operating temp – -75 to 200°C

C.4 Pressure Transducers

Manufacturer: PCB Piezotronics, Inc. Model: 111A23 Features: Measurement range – 10kpsi Sensitivity – 0.5mV/psi Maximum pressure – 15kpsi Operating temp – -73 to 135°C

69

Manufacturer: PCB Piezotronics, Inc. Model: 113A21 Features: Measurement range – 200psi Sensitivity – 25mV/psi Maximum pressure – 1000psi Operating temp – -73 to 135°C

C.7 Strain gage amplifier

Manufacturer: Paine instruments, Inc. Model: Strain gage amplifier Features: Excitation voltage range – 0-10V

Gain – 100

Amplifier circuit diagram used for piezoelectric films

Figure C.1 Circuit diagram of piezoelectric film amplifier. Circuit uses a LM-386 IC.

70

REFERENCES

[1] Robinson, M., “Simultaneous Lift, Moment and Thrust Measurements on a Scramjet in

Hypervelocity Flow,” Ph.D. dissertation, University of Queensland, 2003.

[2] Sanderson, S.R. and Simmons, J.M., “Drag Balance for Hypervelocity Impulse Facilities,” AIAA Journal, Vol. 29, No. 12, pp. 2185–2191, 1991.

[3] Daniel, W.J.T. & Mee, D.J., “Finite Element Modelling of a Three-Component Force Balance

for Hypersonic Flows,” Computers and Structures 54 (1), 3548, 1995. [4] Robinson, M., Schramm, J.M. and Hannemann, K., “An Investigation into Internal and

External Force Balance Configurations for Short Duration Wind Tunnels,” Notes on

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[6] Kulkarni, V. and Reddy, K.P.J., ”Accelerometer-Based Force Balance for High Enthalpy

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and Analysis of a Flat Accelerometer-based Force Balance System for Shock Tunnel Testing,” Measurement, 40 (1).pp.93-106, 2007.

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Short-Duration Hypersonic Testing Facilities,” Experiments in Fluids, 38 (5). pp. 606-614, 2005.

[9] Mee, D.J., “Dynamic Calibration of Force Balances,” Centre for Hypersonics, The University

of Queensland, Australia. Tech. Rep. 2002/6, Jan 2003.

71

[10] Smith, A. L.; Mee, D.J., “Drag Measurements in a Hypervelocity Expansion Tube,” Shock

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[11] Marineau, E., “Force Measurements in Hypervelocity Flows with an Acceleration

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[13] Murtugudde, R.G., "Hypersonic Shock Tunnel," Master's Thesis, Department of Aerospace Engineering, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 1986. [14] Stuessy, W.S, "Hypersonic Shock Tunnel Development and Calibration," Master's Thesis, Department of Aerospace Engineering, The University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 1989. [15] Stuessy, W.S., Murtugudde, R.G., Lu, F.K. and Wilson, D.R., "Development of the UTA

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72

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION

Pravin Vadassery graduated with a Bachelors degree in Aeronautical engineering, his

endeavor to learn new things, lead him to the Masters degree in Aerospace engineering. His

passion for experiments and hands-on jobs helped him during his research at the Aerodynamic

Research Center. He has worked on many projects during his undergraduate and graduate

years, which included areas of design, analysis, and comparative studies. He plans to start his

career with all experience he gained and eventually establish his own company.