The ascent plume induced base heating environment is an important design consideration for the RLV. Significant TPS weight and vehicle turn-around costs can be reduced if the base heating environment is well-known. In the past, scale model ground tests have provided environments which were scaleable to flight conditions. Recent experience has relied on CFD to define the environment, but cost and complexity have limited their success. Model testing is still a requirement, but better test methods are needed. Qualis proposes to develop improved base heating test techniques and model designs which will enable RLV base heating tests to be more flexible, have quicker response time, and significantly lower costs. Qualis' approach utilizes an innovative external (to the test cell) coiled loop propellant delivery system which can accommodate various propellants and flow rate requirements. An integral mixer/igniter combustion chamber and innovative combustion gas distribution system will offer flexibility in the base geometry, number of engines, and gimbal limits. A cold flow mock-up system will be demonstrated in Phase I to establish feasibility, test flexibility, and preliminary costs. Tests parameters, model design and data requirements will be developed in cooperation with contractor(s) selected for the RLV flight demonstration program.
Potential Commercial Applications: The base heating test improvements will be utilized by the NASA/RLV contractor/Qualis cooperative team to plan, implement, and conduct a low cost, quick response base heating test to assist the RLV design. The improved techniques and spin-off hardware such as the improved propellant delivery system will be commercially marketed to launch vehicle contractors worldwide.
