40 CFR 1065.715 - Natural gas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.715 Natural gas... specifications in the following table: Table 1 of § 1065.715—Test Fuel Specifications for Natural Gas Item Value... test fuel not meeting the specifications in paragraph (a) of this section, as follows: (1) You may use...

40 CFR 1066.145 - Test fuel, engine fluids, analytical gases, and other calibration standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... requirements of 40 CFR 1065.750. (e) Mass standards. Use mass standards that meet the requirements of 40 CFR... gases, and other calibration standards. 1066.145 Section 1066.145 Protection of Environment..., analytical gases, and other calibration standards. (a) Test fuel. Use test fuel as specified in the standard...

Development and Experimental Evaluation of Passive Fuel Cell Thermal Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colozza, Anthony J.; Jakupca, Ian J.; Castle, Charles H.; Burke, Kenneth A.

2014-01-01

To provide uniform cooling for a fuel cell stack, a cooling plate concept was evaluated. This concept utilized thin cooling plates to extract heat from the interior of a fuel cell stack and move this heat to a cooling manifold where it can be transferred to an external cooling fluid. The advantages of this cooling approach include a reduced number of ancillary components and the ability to directly utilize an external cooling fluid loop for cooling the fuel cell stack. A number of different types of cooling plates and manifolds were developed. The cooling plates consisted of two main types; a plate based on thermopyrolytic graphite (TPG) and a planar (or flat plate) heat pipe. The plates, along with solid metal control samples, were tested for both thermal and electrical conductivity. To transfer heat from the cooling plates to the cooling fluid, a number of manifold designs utilizing various materials were devised, constructed, and tested. A key aspect of the manifold was that it had to be electrically nonconductive so it would not short out the fuel cell stack during operation. Different manifold and cooling plate configurations were tested in a vacuum chamber to minimize convective heat losses. Cooling plates were placed in the grooves within the manifolds and heated with surface-mounted electric pad heaters. The plate temperature and its thermal distribution were recorded for all tested combinations of manifold cooling flow rates and heater power loads. This testing simulated the performance of the cooling plates and manifold within an operational fuel cell stack. Different types of control valves and control schemes were tested and evaluated based on their ability to maintain a constant temperature of the cooling plates. The control valves regulated the cooling fluid flow through the manifold, thereby controlling the heat flow to the cooling fluid. Through this work, a cooling plate and manifold system was developed that could maintain the cooling plates within a minimal temperature band with negligible thermal gradients over power profiles that would be experienced within an operating fuel cell stack.

40 CFR 1065.715 - Natural gas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.715 Natural gas... specifications in the following table: Table 1 of § 1065.715—Test Fuel Specifications for Natural Gas Property....051 mol/mol. 1 Demonstrate compliance with fuel specifications based on the reference procedures in...

A CFD Approach to Modeling Spacecraft Fuel Slosh

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marsell, Brandon; Gangadharan, Sathya; Chatman, Yadira; Sudermann, James; Schlee, Keith; Ristow, James E.

2009-01-01

Energy dissipation and resonant coupling from sloshing fuel in spacecraft fuel tanks is a problem that occurs in the design of many spacecraft. In the case of a spin stabilized spacecraft, this energy dissipation can cause a growth in the spacecrafts' nutation (wobble) that may lead to disastrous consequences for the mission. Even in non-spinning spacecraft, coupling between the spacecraft or upper stage flight control system and an unanticipated slosh resonance can result in catastrophe. By using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solver such as Fluent, a model for this fuel slosh can be created. The accuracy of the model must be tested by comparing its results to an experimental test case. Such a model will allow for the variation of many different parameters such as fluid viscosity and gravitational field, yielding a deeper understanding of spacecraft slosh dynamics. In order to gain a better understanding of the dynamics behind sloshing fluids, the Launch Services Program (LSP) at the NASA Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is interested in finding ways to better model this behavior. Thanks to past research, a state-of-the-art fuel slosh research facility was designed and fabricated at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). This test facility has produced interesting results and a fairly reliable parameter estimation process to predict the necessary values that accurately characterize a mechanical pendulum analog model. The current study at ERAU uses a different approach to model the free surface sloshing of liquid in a spherical tank using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods. Using a software package called Fluent, a model was created to simulate the sloshing motion of the propellant. This finite volume program uses a technique called the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method to model the interaction between two fluids [4]. For the case of free surface slosh, the two fluids are the propellant and air. As the fuel sloshes around in the tank, it naturally displaces the air. Using the conservation of mass, momentum, and energy equations, as well as the VOF equations, one can predict the behavior of the sloshing fluid and calculate the forces, pressure gradients, and velocity field for the entire liquid as a function of time.

Progress Toward Quality Assurance Standards for Advanced Hydrocarbon Fuels Based on Thermal Performance Testing and Chemometric Modeling

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-15

axial direction; v – fluid velocity; Twc – wall temperature; Tb – fuel bulk temperature; q″ – heat flux ; ρ – fluid density. INTRODUCTION In...and cyclic paraffins ] and distribution are not. Chromatograms demonstrating RP compositional variability are shown in Fig. 2 alongside aviation

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Status Update: New Mid-Level Ethanol Blends

Science.gov Websites

differs from Subject 87A-E85 in several key ways. This new certification path only requires one test fluid , an aggressive E25 fluid, rather than both an E25 and an E85 test fluid. Due to the lack of contracted with UL to conduct these tests at their laboratory. NREL will test the dispensers using an

Fluid-structure interaction analysis of the drop impact test for helicopter fuel tank.

PubMed

Yang, Xianfeng; Zhang, Zhiqiang; Yang, Jialing; Sun, Yuxin

2016-01-01

The crashworthiness of helicopter fuel tank is vital to the survivability of the passengers and structures. In order to understand and improve the crashworthiness of the soft fuel tank of helicopter during the crash, this paper investigated the dynamic behavior of the nylon woven fabric composite fuel tank striking on the ground. A fluid-structure interaction finite element model of the fuel tank based on the arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian method was constructed to elucidate the dynamic failure behavior. The drop impact tests were conducted to validate the accuracy of the numerical simulation. Good agreement was achieved between the experimental and numerical results of the impact force with the ground. The influences of the impact velocity, the impact angle, the thickness of the fuel tank wall and the volume fraction of water on the dynamic responses of the dropped fuel tank were studied. The results indicated that the corner of the fuel tank is the most vulnerable location during the impact with ground.

CFD Fuel Slosh Modeling of Fluid-Structure Interaction in Spacecraft Propellant Tanks with Diaphragms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sances, Dillon J.; Gangadharan, Sathya N.; Sudermann, James E.; Marsell, Brandon

2010-01-01

Liquid sloshing within spacecraft propellant tanks causes rapid energy dissipation at resonant modes, which can result in attitude destabilization of the vehicle. Identifying resonant slosh modes currently requires experimental testing and mechanical pendulum analogs to characterize the slosh dynamics. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) techniques have recently been validated as an effective tool for simulating fuel slosh within free-surface propellant tanks. Propellant tanks often incorporate an internal flexible diaphragm to separate ullage and propellant which increases modeling complexity. A coupled fluid-structure CFD model is required to capture the damping effects of a flexible diaphragm on the propellant. ANSYS multidisciplinary engineering software employs a coupled solver for analyzing two-way Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) cases such as the diaphragm propellant tank system. Slosh models generated by ANSYS software are validated by experimental lateral slosh test results. Accurate data correlation would produce an innovative technique for modeling fuel slosh within diaphragm tanks and provide an accurate and efficient tool for identifying resonant modes and the slosh dynamic response.

40 CFR 1065.710 - Gasoline.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Gasoline. 1065.710 Section 1065.710... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.710 Gasoline. (a) Gasoline for testing must have octane values that represent commercially available fuels for the...

40 CFR 1065.710 - Gasoline.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Gasoline. 1065.710 Section 1065.710... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.710 Gasoline. (a) Gasoline for testing must have octane values that represent commercially available fuels for the...

40 CFR 1065.710 - Gasoline.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Gasoline. 1065.710 Section 1065.710... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.710 Gasoline. (a) Gasoline for testing must have octane values that represent commercially available fuels for the...

40 CFR 1065.710 - Gasoline.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Gasoline. 1065.710 Section 1065.710... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.710 Gasoline. (a) This section specifies test fuel properties for gasoline with ethanol (low-level blend only) and...

Selection and properties of alternative forming fluids for TRISO fuel kernel production

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baker, M. P.; King, J. C.; Gorman, B. P.

2013-01-01

Current Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) designs incorporate TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel, which consists of a spherical fissile fuel kernel surrounded by layers of pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide. An internal sol-gel process forms the fuel kernel using wet chemistry to produce uranium oxyhydroxide gel spheres by dropping a cold precursor solution into a hot column of trichloroethylene (TCE). Over time, gelation byproducts inhibit complete gelation, and the TCE must be purified or discarded. The resulting TCE waste stream contains both radioactive and hazardous materials and is thus considered a mixed hazardous waste. Changing the forming fluid to a non-hazardousmore » alternative could greatly improve the economics of TRISO fuel kernel production. Selection criteria for a replacement forming fluid narrowed a list of ~10,800 chemicals to yield ten potential replacement forming fluids: 1-bromododecane, 1- bromotetradecane, 1-bromoundecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, 1-chlorotetradecane, 1-iododecane, 1-iodododecane, 1-iodohexadecane, 1-iodooctadecane, and squalane. The density, viscosity, and surface tension for each potential replacement forming fluid were measured as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 80 °C. Calculated settling velocities and heat transfer rates give an overall column height approximation. 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane show the greatest promise as replacements, and future tests will verify their ability to form satisfactory fuel kernels.« less

Selection and properties of alternative forming fluids for TRISO fuel kernel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, M. P.; King, J. C.; Gorman, B. P.; Marshall, D. W.

2013-01-01

Current Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR) designs incorporate TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) fuel, which consists of a spherical fissile fuel kernel surrounded by layers of pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide. An internal sol-gel process forms the fuel kernel using wet chemistry to produce uranium oxyhydroxide gel spheres by dropping a cold precursor solution into a hot column of trichloroethylene (TCE). Over time, gelation byproducts inhibit complete gelation, and the TCE must be purified or discarded. The resulting TCE waste stream contains both radioactive and hazardous materials and is thus considered a mixed hazardous waste. Changing the forming fluid to a non-hazardous alternative could greatly improve the economics of TRISO fuel kernel production. Selection criteria for a replacement forming fluid narrowed a list of ˜10,800 chemicals to yield ten potential replacement forming fluids: 1-bromododecane, 1-bromotetradecane, 1-bromoundecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, 1-chlorotetradecane, 1-iododecane, 1-iodododecane, 1-iodohexadecane, 1-iodooctadecane, and squalane. The density, viscosity, and surface tension for each potential replacement forming fluid were measured as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 80 °C. Calculated settling velocities and heat transfer rates give an overall column height approximation. 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane show the greatest promise as replacements, and future tests will verify their ability to form satisfactory fuel kernels.

Large scale cryogenic fluid systems testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

NASA Lewis Research Center's Cryogenic Fluid Systems Branch (CFSB) within the Space Propulsion Technology Division (SPTD) has the ultimate goal of enabling the long term storage and in-space fueling/resupply operations for spacecraft and reusable vehicles in support of space exploration. Using analytical modeling, ground based testing, and on-orbit experimentation, the CFSB is studying three primary categories of fluid technology: storage, supply, and transfer. The CFSB is also investigating fluid handling, advanced instrumentation, and tank structures and materials. Ground based testing of large-scale systems is done using liquid hydrogen as a test fluid at the Cryogenic Propellant Tank Facility (K-site) at Lewis' Plum Brook Station in Sandusky, Ohio. A general overview of tests involving liquid transfer, thermal control, pressure control, and pressurization is given.

Evaluation of single and stack membraneless enzymatic fuel cells based on ethanol in simulated body fluids.

PubMed

Galindo-de-la-Rosa, J; Arjona, N; Moreno-Zuria, A; Ortiz-Ortega, E; Guerra-Balcázar, M; Ledesma-García, J; Arriaga, L G

2017-06-15

The purpose of this work is to evaluate single and double-cell membraneless microfluidic fuel cells (MMFCs) that operate in the presence of simulated body fluids SBF, human serum and blood enriched with ethanol as fuels. The study was performed using the alcohol dehydrogenase enzyme immobilised by covalent binding through an array composed of carbon Toray paper as support and a layer of poly(methylene blue)/tetrabutylammonium bromide/Nafion and glutaraldehyde (3D bioanode electrode). The single MMFC was tested in a hybrid microfluidic fuel cell using Pt/C as the cathode. A cell voltage of 1.035V and power density of 3.154mWcm -2 were observed, which is the highest performance reported to date. The stability and durability were tested through chronoamperometry and polarisation/performance curves obtained at different days, which demonstrated a slow decrease in the power density on day 10 (14%) and day 20 (26%). Additionally, the cell was tested for ethanol oxidation in simulated body fluid (SBF) with ionic composition similar to human blood plasma. Those tests resulted in 0.93V of cell voltage and a power density close to 1.237mWcm -2 . The double cell MMFC (Stack) was tested using serum and human blood enriched with ethanol. The stack operated with blood in a serial connection showed an excellent cell performance (0.716mWcm -2 ), demonstrating the feasibility of employing human blood as energy source. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Apparatus for testing high pressure injector elements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myers, William Neill (Inventor); Scott, Ewell M. (Inventor); Forbes, John C. (Inventor); Shadoan, Michael D. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

An apparatus for testing and evaluating the spray pattern of high pressure fuel injector elements for use in supplying fuel to combustion engines is presented. Prior art fuel injector elements were normally tested by use of low pressure apparatuses which did not provide a purge to prevent mist from obscuring the injector element or to prevent frosting of the view windows; could utilize only one fluid during each test; and had their viewing ports positioned one hundred eighty (180 deg) apart, thus preventing optimum use of laser diagnostics. The high pressure fluid injector test apparatus includes an upper hub, an upper weldment or housing, a first clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the upper hub to the upper weldment, a standoff assembly within the upper weldment, a pair of window housings having view glasses within the upper weldment, an injector block assembly and purge plate within the upper weldment for holding an injector element to be tested and evaluated, a lower weldment or housing, a second clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the lower weldment to the upper hub, a third clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the lower hub to the lower weldment, mechanisms for introducing fluid under high pressure for testing an injector element, and mechanisms for purging the apparatus to prevent frosting of view glasses within the window housings and to permit unobstructed viewing of the injector element.

Apparatus for testing high pressure injector elements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Myers, William Neill (Inventor); Scott, Ewell M. (Inventor); Forbes, John C. (Inventor); Shadoan, Michael D. (Inventor)

1993-01-01

An apparatus for testing and evaluating the spray pattern of high pressure fuel injector elements for use in supplying fuel to combustion engines is presented. Prior art fuel injector elements were normally tested by use of low pressure apparatuses which did not provide a purge to prevent mist from obscuring the injector element or to prevent frosting of the view windows; could utilize only one fluid during each test; and had their viewing ports positioned one hundred eighty (180 deg) apart, thus preventing optimum use of laser diagnostics. The high pressure fluid injector test apparatus includes an upper hub, an upper weldment or housing, a first clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the upper hub to the upper weldment, a standoff assembly within the upper weldment, a pair of window housings having view glasses within the upper weldment, an injector block assembly and purge plate within the upper weldment for holding an injector element to be tested and evaluated, a lower weldment or housing, a second clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the lower weldment to the upper weldment, a lower hub, a third clamp and stud/nut assembly for securing the lower hub to the lower weldment, mechanisms for introducing fluid under high pressure for testing an injector element, and mechanisms for purging the apparatus to prevent frosting of view glasses within the window housings and to permit unobstructed viewing of the injector element.

Fuel-Cell Water Separator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burke, Kenneth Alan; Fisher, Caleb; Newman, Paul

2010-01-01

The main product of a typical fuel cell is water, and many fuel-cell configurations use the flow of excess gases (i.e., gases not consumed by the reaction) to drive the resultant water out of the cell. This two-phase mixture then exits through an exhaust port where the two fluids must again be separated to prevent the fuel cell from flooding and to facilitate the reutilization of both fluids. The Glenn Research Center (GRC) has designed, built, and tested an innovative fuel-cell water separator that not only removes liquid water from a fuel cell s exhaust ports, but does so with no moving parts or other power-consuming components. Instead it employs the potential and kinetic energies already present in the moving exhaust flow. In addition, the geometry of the separator is explicitly intended to be integrated into a fuel-cell stack, providing a direct mate with the fuel cell s existing flow ports. The separator is also fully scalable, allowing it to accommodate a wide range of water removal requirements. Multiple separators can simply be "stacked" in series or parallel to adapt to the water production/removal rate. GRC s separator accomplishes the task of water removal by coupling a high aspect- ratio flow chamber with a highly hydrophilic, polyethersulfone membrane. The hydrophilic membrane readily absorbs and transports the liquid water away from the mixture while simultaneously resisting gas penetration. The expansive flow path maximizes the interaction of the water particles with the membrane while minimizing the overall gas flow restriction. In essence, each fluid takes its corresponding path of least resistance, and the two fluids are effectively separated. The GRC fuel-cell water separator has a broad range of applications, including commercial hydrogen-air fuel cells currently being considered for power generation in automobiles.

ENGINEERING TEST REACTOR

DOEpatents

De Boisblanc, D.R.; Thomas, M.E.; Jones, R.M.; Hanson, G.H.

1958-10-21

Heterogeneous reactors of the type which is both cooled and moderated by the same fluid, preferably water, and employs highly enriched fuel are reported. In this design, an inner pressure vessel is located within a main outer pressure vessel. The reactor core and its surrounding reflector are disposed in the inner pressure vessel which in turn is surrounded by a thermal shield, Coolant fluid enters the main pressure vessel, fiows downward into the inner vessel where it passes through the core containing tbe fissionable fuel assemblies and control rods, through the reflector, thence out through the bottom of the inner vessel and up past the thermal shield to the discharge port in the main vessel. The fuel assemblles are arranged in the core in the form of a cross having an opening extending therethrough to serve as a high fast flux test facility.

Straight-chain halocarbon forming fluids for TRISO fuel kernel production - Tests with yttria-stabilized zirconia microspheres

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baker, M. P.; King, J. C.; Gorman, B. P.; Braley, J. C.

2015-03-01

Current methods of TRISO fuel kernel production in the United States use a sol-gel process with trichloroethylene (TCE) as the forming fluid. After contact with radioactive materials, the spent TCE becomes a mixed hazardous waste, and high costs are associated with its recycling or disposal. Reducing or eliminating this mixed waste stream would not only benefit the environment, but would also enhance the economics of kernel production. Previous research yielded three candidates for testing as alternatives to TCE: 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane. This study considers the production of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) kernels in silicone oil and the three chosen alternative formation fluids, with subsequent characterization of the produced kernels and used forming fluid. Kernels formed in silicone oil and bromotetradecane were comparable to those produced by previous kernel production efforts, while those produced in chlorooctadecane and iodododecane experienced gelation issues leading to poor kernel formation and geometry.

Experimental Study of the Stability of Aircraft Fuels at Elevated Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vranos, A.; Marteney, P. J.

1980-01-01

An experimental study of fuel stability was conducted in an apparatus which simulated an aircraft gas turbine fuel system. Two fuels were tested: Jet A and Number 2 Home Heating oil. Jet A is an aircraft gas turbine fuel currently in wide use. No. 2HH was selected to represent the properties of future turbine fuels, particularly experimental Reference Broad Specification, which, under NASA sponsorship, was considered as a possible next-generation fuel. Tests were conducted with varying fuel flow rates, delivery pressures and fuel pretreatments (including preheating and deoxygenation). Simulator wall temperatures were varied between 422K and 672K at fuel flows of 0.022 to 0.22 Kg/sec. Coking rate was determined at four equally-spaced locations along the length of the simulator. Fuel samples were collected for infrared analysis. The dependence of coking rate in Jet A may be correlated with surface temperature via an activation energy of 9 to 10 kcal/mole, although the results indicate that both bulk fluid and surface temperature affect the rate of decomposition. As a consequence, flow rate, which controls bulk temperature, must also be considered. Taken together, these results suggest that the decomposition reactions are initiated on the surface and continue in the bulk fluid. The coking rate data for No. 2 HH oil are very highly temperature dependent above approximately 533K. This suggests that bulk phase reactions can become controlling in the formation of coke.

High Temperature, Long Service Life Fuel Cell Bladder Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-01

50 Table 19. Inner Liner Rubber , D471 Results – Fluid Aging in JP8+100 @ 225°F............................. 52 Table 20. Inner Liner Rubber ...Tensile Properties – Fluid Aging in JP8+100 @ 225°F ..................... 52 Table 21. Inner Liner Rubber , Tear Properties – Fluid Aging in JP8+100...samples in accordance with ASTM D 471: Test Method for Rubber Property - Effects of Liquids. Fluid aging experiments were performed in friction

Power packs: A passive approach to extinguishing fire in combat vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Finnerty, Anthony E.; Polyanski, Stanley

1991-01-01

Thin (12.7 and 6.4 mm) panels of fire extinguishing powder in a honeycomb matrix were tested for their ability to extinguish fires in the FAASV ammunition resupply vehicle. These powder packs were applied to the exterior of hydraulic fluid reservoirs and fuel cells for protection from hydrocarbon fires caused by shaped charge jets penetrating the fluid containers. It was found that a surround of 12.7-mm-thick panels was required to achieve a sub 250-ms fire-out time with no second-degree burns expected to personnel with hot hydraulic fluid reservoirs. Power packs as thin as 6.4 mm provided the same protection in the case of hot diesel fuel.

Design and Implementation of a Characterization Test Rig for Evaluating High Bandwidth Liquid Fuel Flow Modulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Saus, Joseph R.; Chang, Clarence T.; DeLaat, John C.; Vrnak, Daniel R.

2010-01-01

A test rig was designed and developed at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) for the purpose of characterizing high bandwidth liquid fuel flow modulator candidates to determine their suitability for combustion instability control research. The test rig is capable of testing flow modulators at up to 600 psia supply pressure and flows of up to 2 gpm. The rig is designed to provide a quiescent flow into the test section in order to isolate the dynamic flow modulations produced by the test article. Both the fuel injector orifice downstream of the test article and the combustor are emulated. The effect of fuel delivery line lengths on modulator dynamic performance can be observed and modified to replicate actual fuel delivery systems. For simplicity, water is currently used as the working fluid, although future plans are to use jet fuel. The rig is instrumented for dynamic pressures and flows and a high-speed data system is used for dynamic data acquisition. Preliminary results have been obtained for one candidate flow modulator.

Thermal energy recycling fuel cell arrangement

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hanrahan, Paul R.

An example fuel cell arrangement includes a fuel cell stack configured to receive a supply fluid and to provide an exhaust fluid that has more thermal energy than the supply fluid. The arrangement also includes an ejector and a heat exchanger. The ejector is configured to direct at least some of the exhaust fluid into the supply fluid. The heat exchanger is configured to increase thermal energy in the supply fluid using at least some of the exhaust fluid that was not directed into the supply fluid.

Thermal Characterization and Flammability of Structural Epoxy Adhesive and Carbon/Epoxy Composite with Environmental and Chemical Degradation (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

this study). TGA scans show the thermal degradation of carbon/ epoxy composite by fuel additive at room temperature. Through Microscale Combustion...concerns regarding the durability of structural epoxy adhesive contaminated by hydraulic fluid or fuel additive , under simplified test conditions (no...higher than room tem- perature) or fuel additive (at all temperatures of this study). TGA scans show the thermal degradation of carbon/ epoxy composite

Supercritical fuel injection system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marek, C. J.; Cooper, L. P. (Inventor)

1980-01-01

a fuel injection system for gas turbines is described including a pair of high pressure pumps. The pumps provide fuel and a carrier fluid such as air at pressures above the critical pressure of the fuel. A supercritical mixing chamber mixes the fuel and carrier fluid and the mixture is sprayed into a combustion chamber. The use of fuel and a carrier fluid at supercritical pressures promotes rapid mixing of the fuel in the combustion chamber so as to reduce the formation of pollutants and promote cleaner burning.

Apparatus and method for mixing fuel in a gas turbine nozzle

DOEpatents

Johnson, Thomas Edward; Ziminsky, Willy Steve; Berry, Jonathan Dwight

2014-08-12

A nozzle includes a fuel plenum and an air plenum downstream of the fuel plenum. A primary fuel channel includes an inlet in fluid communication with the fuel plenum and a primary air port in fluid communication with the air plenum. Secondary fuel channels radially outward of the primary fuel channel include a secondary fuel port in fluid communication with the fuel plenum. A shroud circumferentially surrounds the secondary fuel channels. A method for mixing fuel and air in a nozzle prior to combustion includes flowing fuel to a fuel plenum and flowing air to an air plenum downstream of the fuel plenum. The method further includes injecting fuel from the fuel plenum through a primary fuel passage, injecting fuel from the fuel plenum through secondary fuel passages, and injecting air from the air plenum through the primary fuel passage.

CHEMICALLY ACTIVE FLUID-BED PROCESS FOR SULPHUR REMOVAL DURING GASIFICATION OF HEAVY FUEL OIL - SECOND PHASE

EPA Science Inventory

The report describes the second phase of studies on the CAFB process for desulfurizing gasification of heavy fuel oil in a bed of hot lime. The first continuous pilot plant test with U.S. limestone BCR 1691 experienced local stone sintering and severe production of sticky dust du...

Supercritical Fuel Measurements

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

TERMS Fuels, supercritical fluids , stimulated scattering, Brillouin scattering, Rayleigh scattering, elastic properties, thermal properties 16...10 Supercritical Cell and Fluid Handling ....................................................................................... 11...motion in supercritical fluids . Thus, the method can perform diagnostics on the heat transfer of high-temperature and high-pressure fuels, measuring

A study of the effects of long-term exposure to fuels and fluids on the behavior of advanced composite materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tanimoto, E. Y.

1981-01-01

The periodic testing and evaluation of graphite/epoxy and Kevlar/epoxy material systems after subjecting test specimens to prolonged exposure to several laboratory-controlled environments deemed typical of normal aircraft operations is discussed. It is noted that specimen immersion in water or water-based fluids resulted in the greatest effect on the mechanical properties tested. Also, the environmental fluids showed a tendency to affect Kevlar/epoxy systems at an earlier exposure period than the graphite/epoxy systems. Results also indicate mechanical property strength retention generally being lower for the Kevlar/epoxy systems when compared to the corresponding graphite/epoxy systems in similar environments, after prolonged exposure.

40 CFR 1065.740 - Lubricants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Lubricants. 1065.740 Section 1065.740 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.740 Lubricants...

40 CFR 1065.740 - Lubricants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Lubricants. 1065.740 Section 1065.740 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.740 Lubricants...

40 CFR 1065.740 - Lubricants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Lubricants. 1065.740 Section 1065.740 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.740 Lubricants...

40 CFR 1065.740 - Lubricants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Lubricants. 1065.740 Section 1065.740 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.740 Lubricants...

40 CFR 1065.740 - Lubricants.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Lubricants. 1065.740 Section 1065.740 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.740 Lubricants...

14 CFR 25.1043 - Cooling tests.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... (a)(1) of this section may exceed established limits. (3) For reciprocating engines, the fuel used during the cooling tests must be the minimum grade approved for the engines, and the mixture settings... engine fluids and powerplant components (except cylinder barrels) for which temperature limits are...

14 CFR 25.1043 - Cooling tests.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... (a)(1) of this section may exceed established limits. (3) For reciprocating engines, the fuel used during the cooling tests must be the minimum grade approved for the engines, and the mixture settings... engine fluids and powerplant components (except cylinder barrels) for which temperature limits are...

A Step Towards CO2-Neutral Aviation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brankovic, Andreja; Ryder, Robert C.; Hendricks, Robert C.; Huber, Marcia L.

2008-01-01

An approximation method for evaluation of the caloric equations used in combustion chemistry simulations is described. The method is applied to generate the equations of specific heat, static enthalpy, and Gibb's free energy for fuel mixtures of interest to gas turbine engine manufacturers. Liquid-phase fuel properties are also derived. The fuels investigated include JP-8, synthetic fuel, and two blends of JP-8 and synthetic fuel. The complete set of fuel property equations for both phases are implemented into a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) flow solver database, and multiphase, reacting flow simulations of a well-tested liquid-fueled combustor are performed. The simulations are a first step in understanding combustion system performance and operational issues when using alternate fuels, at practical engine operating conditions.

Fuel supply device for supplying fuel to an engine combustor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lindsay, M.H.; Kerr, W.B.

1990-05-29

This patent describes a variable flow rate fuel supply device for supplying fuel to an engine combustor. It comprises: fuel metering means having a fuel valve means for controlling the flow rate of fuel to the combustor; piston means for dividing a first cooling fluid chamber from a second cooling fluid chamber; coupling means for coupling the piston means to the fuel valve means; and cooling fluid supply means in communication with the first and second cooling fluid chamber for producing a first pressure differential across the piston means for actuating the fuel valve means in a first direction, andmore » for producing a second pressure differential across the piston means for actuating the valve means in a second direction opposite the first direction, to control the flow rate of the fuel through the fuel metering means and into the engine combustor; and means for positioning the fuel metering means within the second cooling air chamber enabling the cooling air supply means to both cool the fuel metering means and control the fuel supply rate of fuel supplied by the fuel metering means to the combustor.« less

Characterization of a high-pressure diesel fuel injection system as a control technology option to improve engine performance and reduce exhaust emissions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcfadden, J. J.; Dezelick, R. A.; Barrows, R. R.

1983-01-01

Test results from a high pressure electronically controlled fuel injection system are compared with a commercial mechanical injection system on a single cylinder, diesel test engine using an inlet boost pressure of 2.6:1. The electronic fuel injection system achieved high pressure by means of a fluid intensifier with peak injection pressures of 47 to 69 MPa. Reduced exhaust emissions were demonstrated with an increasing rate of injection followed by a fast cutoff of injection. The reduction in emissions is more responsive to the rate of injection and injection timing than to high peak injection pressure.

Effects of Fuel Distribution on Detonation Tube Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perkins, H. Douglas; Sung, Chih-Jen

2003-01-01

A pulse detonation engine uses a series of high frequency intermittent detonation tubes to generate thrust. The process of filling the detonation tube with fuel and air for each cycle may yield non-uniform mixtures. Uniform mixing is commonly assumed when calculating detonation tube thrust performance. In this study, detonation cycles featuring idealized non-uniform Hz/air mixtures were analyzed using a two-dimensional Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics code with detailed chemistry. Mixture non-uniformities examined included axial equivalence ratio gradients, transverse equivalence ratio gradients, and partially fueled tubes. Three different average test section equivalence ratios were studied; one stoichiometric, one fuel lean, and one fuel rich. All mixtures were detonable throughout the detonation tube. Various mixtures representing the same average test section equivalence ratio were shown to have specific impulses within 1% of each other, indicating that good fuel/air mixing is not a prerequisite for optimal detonation tube performance under conditions investigated.

Fuel injection assembly for use in turbine engines and method of assembling same

DOEpatents

Berry, Jonathan Dwight; Johnson, Thomas Edward; York, William David; Uhm, Jong Ho

2015-12-15

A fuel injection assembly for use in a turbine engine is provided. The fuel injection assembly includes an end cover, an endcap assembly, a fluid supply chamber, and a plurality of tube assemblies positioned at the endcap assembly. Each of the tube assemblies includes housing having a fuel plenum and a cooling fluid plenum. The cooling fluid plenum is positioned downstream from the fuel plenum and separated from the fuel plenum by an intermediate wall. The plurality of tube assemblies also include a plurality of tubes that extends through the housing. Each of the plurality of tubes is coupled in flow communication with the fluid supply chamber and a combustion chamber positioned downstream from the tube assembly. The plurality of tube assemblies further includes an aft plate at a downstream end of the cooling fluid plenum. The plate includes at least one aperture.

Engine with hydraulic fuel injection and ABS circuit using a single high pressure pump

DOEpatents

Bartley, Bradley E.; Blass, James R.; Gibson, Dennis H.

2001-01-01

An engine system comprises a hydraulically actuated fuel injection system and an ABS circuit connected via a fluid flow passage that provides hydraulic fluid to both the fuel injection system and to the ABS circuit. The hydraulically actuated system includes a high pressure pump. The fluid control passage is in fluid communication with an outlet from the high pressure pump.

Evaluation of fuel injection configurations to control carbon and soot formation in small GT combustors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosfjord, T. J.; Briehl, D.

1982-01-01

An experimental program to investigate hardware configurations which attempt to minimize carbon formation and soot production without sacrificing performance in small gas turbine combustors has been conducted at the United Technologies Research Center. Four fuel injectors, embodying either airblast atomization, pressure atomization, or fuel vaporization techniques, were combined with nozzle air swirlers and injector sheaths, and evaluated at test conditions which included and extended beyond standard small gas turbine combustor operation. Extensive testing was accomplished with configurations embodying either a spill return or a T-vaporizer injector. Minimal carbon deposits were observed on the spill return nozzle for tests using either Jet A or ERBS test fuel. A more extensive film of soft carbon was observed on the vaporizer after operation at standard engine conditions, with large carbonaceous growths forming on the device during off-design operation at low combustor inlet temperature. Test results indicated that smoke emission levels depended on the combustor fluid mechanics (especially the mixing rates near the injector), the atomization quality of the injector and the fuel hydrogen content.

A Comparison of Materials Issues for Cermet and Graphite-Based NTP Fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Mark E.; Schnitzler, Bruce G.

2013-01-01

This paper compares material issues for cermet and graphite fuel elements. In particular, two issues in NTP fuel element performance are considered here: ductile to brittle transition in relation to crack propagation, and orificing individual coolant channels in fuel elements. Their relevance to fuel element performance is supported by considering material properties, experimental data, and results from multidisciplinary fluid/thermal/structural simulations. Ductile to brittle transition results in a fuel element region prone to brittle fracture under stress, while outside this region, stresses lead to deformation and resilience under stress. Poor coolant distribution between fuel element channels can increase stresses in certain channels. NERVA fuel element experimental results are consistent with this interpretation. An understanding of these mechanisms will help interpret fuel element testing results.

A Step Towards CO2-Neutral Aviation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brankovic, Andreja; Ryder, Robert C.; Hendricks, Robert C.; Huber, Marcia L.

2007-01-01

An approximation method for evaluation of the caloric equations used in combustion chemistry simulations is described. The method is applied to generate the equations of specific heat, static enthalpy, and Gibb's free energy for fuel mixtures of interest to gas turbine engine manufacturers. Liquid-phase fuel properties are also derived. The fuels include JP-8, synthetic fuel, and two fuel blends consisting of a mixture of JP-8 and synthetic fuel. The complete set of fuel property equations for both phases are implemented into a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) flow solver database, and multi-phase, reacting flow simulations of a well-tested liquid-fueled combustor are performed. The simulations are a first step in understanding combustion system performance and operational issues when using alternate fuels, at practical engine operating conditions.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gangopadhyay, Arup; McWatt, D. G.; Zdrodowski, R. J.

Engine oils play a critical role in friction reduction. Improvements in engine oil technology steadily improved fuel economy as the industry moved through ILSAC GF-1 to GF-5 specifications. These improvements were influenced by changes in base oil chemistry, development of new friction modifiers and their treat levels, and the total additive package consisting of various other components. However, the improvements are incremental and further fuel consumption reduction opportunities are becoming more challenging. Polyalkylene glycol (PAG) based engine oils are being explored as a step forward for significant fuel consumption reduction. Although PAG fluids are used in many industrial applications, itsmore » application as an engine oil has been explored in a limited way. The objective of this project is to deep dive in exploring the applicability of PAG technology in engine oil, understanding the benefits, and limitations, elucidating the mechanism(s) for friction benefits, if any, and finally recommending how to address any limitations. The project was designed in four steps, starting with selection of lubricant technology, followed by friction and wear evaluations in laboratory bench tests which are relatively simple and inexpensive and also served as a screener for further evaluation. Selected formulations were chosen for more complex engine component level tests i.e., motored valvetrain friction and wear, piston ring friction using a motored single cylinder, and motored engine tests. A couple of formulations were further selected based on component level tests for engine dyno tests i.e., Sequence VID (ASTM D6709) for fuel economy, Sequence IVA (ASTM D6891) for valvetrain wear, and Sequence VG (ASTM D6593) for sludge and varnish protection. These are some of the industry standard tests required for qualifying engine oils. Out of these tests, a single PAG oil was selected for chassis roll dynamometer tests for fuel economy and emission measurements using FTP (Federal Test Procedure) metro/highway cycles. Five different PAG chemistries were selected by varying the starting alcohol, the oxide monomers (ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, or butylene oxide), capped or uncapped, homopolymer or random copolymer. All formulations contained a proprietary additive package and one which contained additional antiwear and friction modifier additives. Laboratory bench tests (Pin-on-Disk, High Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR), Block-on-Ring, Mini-Traction Machine (MTM) identified formulations having friction, wear, and load carrying characteristics similar to or better than baseline GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil. Motored valvetrain and motored piston ring friction tests showed nearly 50% friction reduction for some of the PAG formulations compared to GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil. Motored engine tests showed up to 15% friction benefit over GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil. It was observed that friction benefits are more related to PAG base oil chemistry than their lower viscosity compared to GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil. Analysis of wear surfaces from laboratory bench tests and bucket tappets from motored valvetrain tests confirmed the presence of PAG molecules. The adsorption of these polar molecules is believed to be reason for friction reduction. However, the wear surfaces also had thin tribo-film derived from additive components. The tribo-film consisting of phosphates, sulfides, and molybdenum disulfide (when molybdenum additive was present) were observed for both GF-5 SAE 5W-20 and PAG fluids. However, when using PAG fluids, motored valvetrain tests showed high initial wear, which is believed to be due to delay in protective tribo-film formation. After the initial wear, the wear rate of PAG fluids was comparable to GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil. The PAG oil containing additional antiwear and friction reducing additives showed low initial wear as expected. However, when this oil was evaluated in Sequence IVA test, it showed initially low wear comparable to GF-5 oil but wear accelerated with oil aging indicating rapid deterioration of additive components. ASTM Sequence VG test showed good sludge protection capability but failed to meet varnish rating for GF-5 requirement. Chassis roll dynamometer tests with PAG oil 15-1 showed about 1% fuel economy benefit over GF-5 SAE 5W-20 oil in EPA city cycles only and when the oil was slightly aged (500 miles). No fuel economy benefits could be observed in combined EPA metro/highway cycles. Also, no fuel economy benefit could be observed with continued (500- 10000 miles) oil aging. However, the emission level was comparable to the reference oil and was within EPA limits. Analysis of the PAG oil following tests showed low iron content although additive components were significantly degraded. The results indicate that PAG fluids have significant friction reduction potential but there are challenges with wear and varnish protection capabilities. These limitations are primarily because the selected additive components were chosen to provide a fluid with no metal content that forms little or no sulphated ash. Significant development work is needed to identify additive components compatible with PAG chemistry including their solubility in PAG oil. Miscibility of PAG fluids with mineral base oil is another challenge for oil change service. There is PAG chemistry (oil soluble PAG, OSP) which is soluble in mineral oils but the formulation explored in this investigation did not show significant friction reduction in motored engine tests. Again, highlighting the need for additive development for specific PAG chemistry. The thermal oxidation behavior of these oils has not been explored in this investigation and needs attention.« less

Noise optimization of a regenerative automotive fuel pump

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, J. F.; Feng, H. H.; Mou, X. L.; Huang, Y. X.

2017-03-01

The regenerative pump used in automotive is facing a noise problem. To understand the mechanism in detail, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Computational Acoustic Analysis (CAA) together were used to understand the fluid and acoustic characteristics of the fuel pump using ANSYS-CFX 15.0 and LMS Virtual. Lab Rev12, respectively. The CFD model and acoustical model were validated by mass flow rate test and sound pressure test, respectively. Comparing the computational and experimental results shows that sound pressure levels at the observer position are consistent at high frequencies, especially at blade passing frequency. After validating the models, several numerical models were analyzed in the study for noise improvement. It is observed that for configuration having greater number of impeller blades, noise level was significantly improved at blade passing frequency, when compared to that of the original model.

14 CFR 27.1043 - Cooling tests.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... (a)(1) of this section may exceed established limits. (3) For reciprocating engines, the fuel used during the cooling tests must be of the minimum grade approved for the engines, and the mixture settings... applies, temperatures of engine fluids and power-plant components (except cylinder barrels) for which...

14 CFR 27.1043 - Cooling tests.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... (a)(1) of this section may exceed established limits. (3) For reciprocating engines, the fuel used during the cooling tests must be of the minimum grade approved for the engines, and the mixture settings... applies, temperatures of engine fluids and power-plant components (except cylinder barrels) for which...

Dynamic, Hot Surface Ignition of Aircraft Fuels and Hydraulic Fluids

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

fuels on a heated stainless steel surface. Higher local surface air speeds necessitated higher surface temperatures for ignition of an applied fluid._-7...Aircraft Fuels ( stainless steel surface) 8. Air Speed and Surface Material Effects on Hot Surface 21 Ignition Temperature of Aircraft Fuels (Titanium...Material Effects on Hot Surface 26 Ignition Temperature of Aircraft Hydraulic Fluids ( Stainless steel surface) 11. Air Speed and Surface Material

STME Hydrogen Mixer Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blumenthal, Rob; Kim, Dongmoon; Bache, George

1992-01-01

The hydrogen mixer for the Space Transportation Main Engine is used to mix cold hydrogen bypass flow with warm hydrogen coolant chamber gas, which is then fed to the injectors. It is very important to have a uniform fuel temperature at the injectors in order to minimize mixture ratio problems due to the fuel density variations. In addition, the fuel at the injector has certain total pressure requirements. In order to achieve these objectives, the hydrogen mixer must provide a thoroughly mixed fluid with a minimum pressure loss. The AEROVISC computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code was used to analyze the STME hydrogen mixer, and proved to be an effective tool in optimizing the mixer design. AEROVISC, which solves the Reynolds Stress-Averaged Navier-Stokes equations in primitive variable form, was used to assess the effectiveness of different mixer designs. Through a parametric study of mixer design variables, an optimal design was selected which minimized mixed fuel temperature variation and fuel mixer pressure loss. The use of CFD in the design process of the STME hydrogen mixer was effective in achieving an optimal mixer design while reducing the amount of hardware testing.

Catalase measurement: A new field procedure for rapidly estimating microbial loads in fuels and water-bottoms

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Passman, F.J.; Daniels, D.A.; Chesneau, H.F.

1995-05-01

Low-grade microbial infections of fuel and fuel systems generally go undetected until they cause major operational problems. Three interdependent factors contribute to this: mis-diagnosis, incorrect or inadequate sampling procedures and perceived complexity of microbiological testing procedures. After discussing the first two issues, this paper describes a rapid field test for estimating microbial loads in fuels and associated water. The test, adapted from a procedure initially developed to measure microbial loads in metalworking fluids, takes advantage of the nearly universal presence of the enzyme catalase in the microbes that contaminated fuel systems. Samples are reacted with a peroxide-based reagent; liberating oxygenmore » gas. The gas generates a pressure-head in a reaction tube. At fifteen minutes, a patented, electronic pressure-sensing device is used to measure that head-space pressure. The authors present both laboratory and field data from fuels and water-bottoms, demonstrating the excellent correlation between traditional viable test data (acquired after 48-72 hours incubation) and catalase test data (acquired after 15 min.-4 hours). We conclude by recommending procedures for developing a failure analysis data-base to enhance our industry`s understanding of the relationship between uncontrolled microbial contamination and fuel performance problems.« less

Zero Boil-OFF Tank Hardware Setup

NASA Image and Video Library

2017-09-19

iss053e027051 (Sept. 19, 2017) --- Flight Engineer Joe Acaba works in the U.S. Destiny laboratory module setting up hardware for the Zero Boil-Off Tank (ZBOT) experiment. ZBOT uses an experimental fluid to test active heat removal and forced jet mixing as alternative means for controlling tank pressure for volatile fluids. Rocket fuel, spacecraft heating and cooling systems, and sensitive scientific instruments rely on very cold cryogenic fluids. Heat from the environment around cryogenic tanks can cause their pressures to rise, which requires dumping or "boiling off" fluid to release the excess pressure, or actively cooling the tanks in some way.

40 CFR 1065.715 - Natural gas.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Natural gas. 1065.715 Section 1065.715... PROCEDURES Engine Fluids, Test Fuels, Analytical Gases and Other Calibration Standards § 1065.715 Natural gas. (a) Except as specified in paragraph (b) of this section, natural gas for testing must meet the...

An RC-1 organic Rankine bottoming cycle for an adiabatic diesel engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dinanno, L. R.; Dibella, F. A.; Koplow, M. D.

1983-01-01

A system analysis and preliminary design were conducted for an organic Rankine-cycle system to bottom the high-temperature waste heat of an adiabatic diesel engine. The bottoming cycle is a compact package that includes a cylindrical air cooled condenser regenerator module and other unique features. The bottoming cycle output is 56 horsepower at design point conditions when compounding the reference 317 horsepower turbocharged diesel engine with a resulting brake specific fuel consumption of 0.268 lb/hp-hr for the compound engine. The bottoming cycle when applied to a turbocompound diesel delivers a compound engine brake specific fuel consumption of 0.258 lb/hp-hr. This system for heavy duty transport applications uses the organic working fluid RC-1, which is a mixture of 60 mole percent pentafluorobenzene and 40 mole percent hexafluorobenzene. The thermal stability of the RC-1 organic fluid was tested in a dynamic fluid test loop that simulates the operation of Rankine-cycle. More than 1600 hours of operation were completed with results showing that the RC-1 is thermally stable up to 900 F.

The use of AntiMisting Kerosene (AMK) in turbojet engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmidt, H. W.

1981-01-01

The effect of antimisting kerosene (AMK) flow characteristics on fan jet engines and the impact of degradation requirements on the fuel system was evaluated. It was determined from the present program that AMK fuel cannot be used without predegradation, although some degradation occurs throughout the fuel feed system, expecially in the fuel pumps. There is a tendency toward FM-9 AMK additive agglomeration and gel formation when the liquid flows at a critical velocity through very small passages. The data indicate this phenomenon to be a function of the degree of degradation, the passage size, the differential pressure, the fluid temperature, and the accumulated flow time. Additionally, test results indicate that the long term cumulative effects of this phenomenon may require more degradation than the theoretical requirement determined from short term tests.

Analysis and Test of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Power System for Space Power Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Arturo; Varanauski, Donald; Clark, Robert, Jr.

2000-01-01

An effort is underway to develop a prototype Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell breadboard system for fuhlre space applications. This prototype will be used to develop a comprehensive design basis for a space-rated PEM fuel cell powerplant. The prototype system includes reactant pressure regulators, ejector-based reactant pumps, a 4-kW fuel cell stack and cooling system, and a passive, membranebased oxygen / water separator. A computer model is being developed concurrently to analytically predict fluid flow in the oxidant reactant system. Fuel cells have historically played an important role in human-rated spacecraft. The Gemini and Apollo spacecraft used fuel cells for vehicle electrical power. The Space Shuttle currently uses three Alkaline Fuel Cell Powerplants (AFCP) to generate all of the vehicle's 15-20kW electrical power. Engineers at the Johnson Space Center have leveraged off the development effort ongoing in the commercial arena to develop PEM fuel cel ls for terrestrial uses. The prototype design originated from efforts to develop a PEM fuel cell replacement for the current Space Shuttle AFCP' s. In order to improve on the life and an already excellent hi storical record of reliability and safety, three subsystems were focused on. These were the fuel cell stack itself, the reactant circulation devices, and reactant / product water separator. PEM fuel cell stack performance is already demonstrating the potential for greater than four times the useful life of the current Shuttle's AFCP. Reactant pumping for product water removal has historically been accomplished with mechanical pumps. Ejectors offer an effective means of reactant pumping as well as the potential for weight reduction, control simplification, and long life. Centrifugal water separation is used on the current AFCP. A passive, membrane-based water separator offers compatibility with the micro-gravity environment of space, and the potential for control simplification, elimination of moving parts in an oxygen environment, and long life. The prototype system has been assembled from components that have previously been tested and evaluated at the component level. Preliminary data obtained from tests performed with the prototype system, as well as other published data, has been used to validate the analytical component models. These components have been incorporated into an integrated oxidant fluid system model. Results obtained from both the performance tests and the analytical model are presented.

Investigation of soot and carbon formation in small gas turbine combustors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosfjord, T. J.

1982-01-01

An investigation of hardware configurations which attempt to minimize carbon and soot-production without sacrificing performance in small gas turbine combustors was conducted. Four fuel injectors, employing either airblast atomization, pressure atomization, or fuel vaporization techniques were combined with nozzle air swirlers and injector sheaths. Eight configurations were screened at sea-level takeoff and idle test conditions. Selected configurations were focused upon in an attempt to quantify the influence of combustor pressure, inlet temperature, primary zone operation, and combustor loading on soot and carbon formation. Cycle tests were also performed. It was found that smoke emission levels depended on the combustor fluid mechanics, the atomization quality of the injector and the fuel hydrogen content.

Acoustic-Structure Interaction in Rocket Engines: Validation Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, R. Benjamin; Joji, Scott S.; Parks, Russel A.; Brown, Andrew M.

2009-01-01

While analyzing a rocket engine component, it is often necessary to account for any effects that adjacent fluids (e.g., liquid fuels or oxidizers) might have on the structural dynamics of the component. To better characterize the fully coupled fluid-structure system responses, an analytical approach that models the system as a coupled expansion of rigid wall acoustic modes and in vacuo structural modes has been proposed. The present work seeks to experimentally validate this approach. To experimentally observe well-coupled system modes, the test article and fluid cavities are designed such that the uncoupled structural frequencies are comparable to the uncoupled acoustic frequencies. The test measures the natural frequencies, mode shapes, and forced response of cylindrical test articles in contact with fluid-filled cylindrical and/or annular cavities. The test article is excited with a stinger and the fluid-loaded response is acquired using a laser-doppler vibrometer. The experimentally determined fluid-loaded natural frequencies are compared directly to the results of the analytical model. Due to the geometric configuration of the test article, the analytical model is found to be valid for natural modes with circumferential wave numbers greater than four. In the case of these modes, the natural frequencies predicted by the analytical model demonstrate excellent agreement with the experimentally determined natural frequencies.

Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics modelling and experimental validation of the Jülich Mark-F solid oxide fuel cell stack

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishida, R. T.; Beale, S. B.; Pharoah, J. G.; de Haart, L. G. J.; Blum, L.

2018-01-01

This work is among the first where the results of an extensive experimental research programme are compared to performance calculations of a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics model for a solid oxide fuel cell stack. The model, which combines electrochemical reactions with momentum, heat, and mass transport, is used to obtain results for an established industrial-scale fuel cell stack design with complex manifolds. To validate the model, comparisons with experimentally gathered voltage and temperature data are made for the Jülich Mark-F, 18-cell stack operating in a test furnace. Good agreement is obtained between the model and experiment results for cell voltages and temperature distributions, confirming the validity of the computational methodology for stack design. The transient effects during ramp up of current in the experiment may explain a lower average voltage than model predictions for the power curve.

JP-8+100: The development of high-thermal-stability jet fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Heneghan, S.P.; Zabarnick, S.; Ballal, D.R.

1996-09-01

Jet fuel requirements have evolved over the years as a balance of the demands placed by advanced aircraft performance (technological need), fuel cost (economic factors), and fuel availability (strategic factors). In a modern aircraft, the jet fuel not only provides the propulsive energy for flight, but also is the primary coolant for aircraft and engine subsystems. To meet the evolving challenge of improving the cooling potential of jet fuel while maintaining the current availability at a minimal price increase, the US Air Force, industry, and academia have teamed to develop an additive package for JP-8 fuels. This paper describes themore » development of an additive package for JP-8, to produce JP-8+100. This new fuel offers a 55 C increase in the bulk maximum temperature (from 325 F to 425 F) and improves the heat sink capability by 50%. Major advances made during the development JP-8 + 100 fuel include the development of several new quantitative fuel analysis tests, a free radical theory of autooxidation, adaptation of new chemistry models to computational fluid dynamics programs, and a nonparametric statistical analysis to evaluate thermal stability. Hundreds of additives were tested for effectiveness, and a package of additives was then formulated for JP-8 fuel. This package has been tested for fuel system materials compatibility and general fuel applicability. To date, the flight testing ha shown an improvement in thermal stability of JP-8 fuel. This improvement has resulted in a significant reduction in fuel-related maintenance costs and a threefold increase in mean time between fuel-related failures. In this manner, a novel high-thermal-stability jet fuel for the 21st century has been successfully developed.« less

Sulfur Speciation and Extraction in Jet A (Briefing Charts)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-16

Extraction fluid: denatured ethanol from Fisher Scientific and deionized water – Jet A fuel , approximately 500-800 ppm sulfur by weight – Data...Outline • Background • Experimental Setup – Extraction of sulfur compounds from fuel to alcohol/water extraction fluid – Each rinse is...Hydrophobic / Oleophillic Membrane Oleophobic / Hydrophillic Membrane Emulsion Phase Fuel Phase Water (Extraction Fluid) Phase DISTRIBUTION A

Miniature DMFCs with passive thermal-fluids management system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Zhen; Faghri, Amir

A new miniature DMFC system that includes a fuel cell stack, a fuel tank and a passive ancillary system (termed "thermal-fluids management system" in this paper) is presented. The thermal-fluids management system utilizes passive approaches for fuel storage and delivery, air breathing, water management, CO 2 release and thermal management. With 5.1 g of neat methanol in the fuel cartridge, a prototype has successfully demonstrated 18 h of continuous operation with total power output of 1.56 Wh.

Irradiation behavior of the interaction product of U-Mo fuel particle dispersion in an Al matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Yeon Soo; Hofman, G. L.

2012-06-01

Irradiation performance of U-Mo fuel particles dispersed in Al matrix is stable in terms of fuel swelling and is suitable for the conversion of research and test reactors from highly enriched uranium (HEU) to low enriched uranium (LEU). However, tests of the fuel at high temperatures and high burnups revealed obstacles caused by the interaction layers forming between the fuel particle and matrix. In some cases, fission gas filled pores grow and interconnect in the interdiffusion layer resulting in fuel plate failure. Postirradiation observations are made to examine the behavior of the interdiffusion layers. The interdiffusion layers show a fluid-like behavior characteristic of amorphous materials. In the amorphous interdiffusion layers, fission gas diffusivity is high and the material viscosity is low so that the fission gas pores readily form and grow. Based on the observations, a pore formation mechanism is proposed and potential remedies to suppress the pore growth are also introduced.

Technology test bed review

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcconnaughey, H. V.

1992-01-01

The topics are presented in viewgraph form and include the following: (1) Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) technology test bed (TTB) history; (2) TTB objectives; (3) TTB major accomplishments; (4) TTB contributions to SSME; (5) major impacts of 3001 testing; (6) some challenges to computational fluid dynamics (CFD); (7) the high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP); and (8) 3001 lessons learned in design and operations.

Combustor assembly for use in a turbine engine and methods of assembling same

DOEpatents

Uhm, Jong Ho; Johnson, Thomas Edward

2013-05-14

A fuel nozzle assembly for use with a turbine engine is described herein. The fuel nozzle assembly includes a plurality of fuel nozzles positioned within an air plenum defined by a casing. Each of the plurality of fuel nozzles is coupled to a combustion liner defining a combustion chamber. Each of the plurality of fuel nozzles includes a housing that includes an inner surface that defines a cooling fluid plenum and a fuel plenum therein, and a plurality of mixing tubes extending through the housing. Each of the mixing tubes includes an inner surface defining a flow channel extending between the air plenum and the combustion chamber. At least one mixing tube of the plurality of mixing tubes including at least one cooling fluid aperture for channeling a flow of cooling fluid from the cooling fluid plenum to the flow channel.

Development of fuel wear tests using the Cameron-Plint High-Frequency reciprocating machine. Interim report, March 1988-May 1989

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kanakia, M.D.; Cuellar, J.P.; Lestz, S.J.

The objectives of this program were to develop laboratory bench fuel-wear test methodology using JP-8 and to evaluate the effects of additives to improve load-carrying capacity of JP-8 for use in diesel-powered ground equipment. A laboratory test using the Cameron-Plint High-Frequency Reciprocating machine evaluated the effects of various chemical and physical parameters influencing the lubricity of the distillate fuels. The test conditions were determined sufficient to eliminate the effect of fluid physical properties such as viscosity. It was shown that the differences in the intrinsic lubricity of the fuels were due to small amounts of chemical additives. Under such conditions,more » the test can be used as a screening tool to find additives for enhancement of JP-8 lubricity. The test has potential to ascertain minimum lubricity level for diesel-powered ground equipment if these requirements are verified with field performance data and determined to be different from the Air Force JP-8 specifications. The dimensionless wear coefficients of Reference No. 2 diesel fuel were shown to be an order of magnitude lower than the jet fuels. In all cases, the wear rates of jet fuels and isoparaffinic solvents were improved by addition of a corrosion inhibitor or antiwear additive to match the lower wear rates of the diesel fuels. Although there was no measurable change in the viscosities of the jet fuel due to the additives, the wear rates changed by an order of magnitude.« less

Hydrogen/Air Fuel Nozzle Emissions Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Timothy D.

2001-01-01

The use of hydrogen combustion for aircraft gas turbine engines provides significant opportunities to reduce harmful exhaust emissions. Hydrogen has many advantages (no CO2 production, high reaction rates, high heating value, and future availability), along with some disadvantages (high current cost of production and storage, high volume per BTU, and an unknown safety profile when in wide use). One of the primary reasons for switching to hydrogen is the elimination of CO2 emissions. Also, with hydrogen, design challenges such as fuel coking in the fuel nozzle and particulate emissions are no longer an issue. However, because it takes place at high temperatures, hydrogen-air combustion can still produce significant levels of NOx emissions. Much of the current research into conventional hydrocarbon-fueled aircraft gas turbine combustors is focused on NOx reduction methods. The Zero CO2 Emission Technology (ZCET) hydrogen combustion project will focus on meeting the Office of Aerospace Technology goal 2 within pillar one for Global Civil Aviation reducing the emissions of future aircraft by a factor of 3 within 10 years and by a factor of 5 within 25 years. Recent advances in hydrocarbon-based gas turbine combustion components have expanded the horizons for fuel nozzle development. Both new fluid designs and manufacturing technologies have led to the development of fuel nozzles that significantly reduce aircraft emissions. The goal of the ZCET program is to mesh the current technology of Lean Direct Injection and rocket injectors to provide quick mixing, low emissions, and high-performance fuel nozzle designs. An experimental program is planned to investigate the fuel nozzle concepts in a flametube test rig. Currently, a hydrogen system is being installed in cell 23 at NASA Glenn Research Center's Research Combustion Laboratory. Testing will be conducted on a variety of fuel nozzle concepts up to combustion pressures of 350 psia and inlet air temperatures of 1200 F. Computational fluid dynamics calculations, with the Glenn developed National Combustor Code, are being performed to optimize the fuel nozzle designs.

Deposit formation in hydrocarbon rocket fuels with an evaluation of a propane heat transfer correlation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masters, P. A.; Aukerman, C. A.

1982-01-01

A high pressure fuel coking testing apparatus was designed and developed and was used to evaluate thermal decomposition limits and carbon decomposition rates in heated copper tubes for hydrocarbon fuels. A commercial propane (90% grade) and chemically pure (CP) propane were tested. Heat transfer to supercritical propane was evaluated at 136 atm, bulk fluid velocities of 6 to 30 m/s, and tube wall temperatures in the range of 422 to 811 K. A forced convection heat transfer correlation developed in a previous test effort verified a prediction of most of the experimental data within a + or - 30% range, with good agreement for the CP propane data. No significant differences were apparent in the predictions derived from the correlation when the carbon resistance was included with the film resistance. A post-test scanning electron microprobe analysis indicated occurrences of migration and interdiffusion of copper into the carbon deposit.

Fuel cell membrane hydration and fluid metering

DOEpatents

Jones, Daniel O.; Walsh, Michael M.

2003-01-01

A hydration system includes fuel cell fluid flow plate(s) and injection port(s). Each plate has flow channel(s) with respective inlet(s) for receiving respective portion(s) of a given stream of reactant fluid for a fuel cell. Each injection port injects a portion of liquid water directly into its respective flow channel. This serves to hydrate at least corresponding part(s) of a given membrane of the corresponding fuel cell(s). The hydration system may be augmented by a metering system including flow regulator(s). Each flow regulator meters an injecting at inlet(s) of each plate of respective portions of liquid into respective portion(s) of a given stream of fluid by corresponding injection port(s).

Fluid delivery control system

DOEpatents

Hoff, Brian D.; Johnson, Kris William; Algrain, Marcelo C.; Akasam, Sivaprasad

2006-06-06

A method of controlling the delivery of fluid to an engine includes receiving a fuel flow rate signal. An electric pump is arranged to deliver fluid to the engine. The speed of the electric pump is controlled based on the fuel flow rate signal.

System and method for networking electrochemical devices

DOEpatents

Williams, Mark C.; Wimer, John G.; Archer, David H.

1995-01-01

An improved electrochemically active system and method including a plurality of electrochemical devices, such as fuel cells and fluid separation devices, in which the anode and cathode process-fluid flow chambers are connected in fluid-flow arrangements so that the operating parameters of each of said plurality of electrochemical devices which are dependent upon process-fluid parameters may be individually controlled to provide improved operating efficiency. The improvements in operation include improved power efficiency and improved fuel utilization in fuel cell power generating systems and reduced power consumption in fluid separation devices and the like through interstage process fluid parameter control for series networked electrochemical devices. The improved networking method includes recycling of various process flows to enhance the overall control scheme.

Percolation in a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Catalyst Layer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Stacy, Stephen; Allen, Jeffrey

Water management in the catalyst layers of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is confronted by two issues, flooding and dry out, both of which result in improper functioning of the fuel cell and lead to poor performance and degradation. At the present time, the data that has been reported about water percolation and wettability within a fuel cell catalyst layer is limited. A method and apparatus for measuring the percolation pressure in the catalyst layer has been developed based upon an experimental apparatus used to test water percolation in porous transport layers (PTL). The experimental setup uses a pseudomore » Hele-Shaw type testing where samples are compressed and a fluid is injected into the sample. Testing the samples gives percolation pressure plots which show trends in increasing percolation pressure with an increase in flow rate. A decrease in pressure was seen as percolation occurred in one sample, however the pressure only had a rising effect in the other sample.« less

FDNS CFD Code Benchmark for RBCC Ejector Mode Operation: Continuing Toward Dual Rocket Effects

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

West, Jeff; Ruf, Joseph H.; Turner, James E. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis results are compared with benchmark quality test data from the Propulsion Engineering Research Center's (PERC) Rocket Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) experiments to verify fluid dynamic code and application procedures. RBCC engine flowpath development will rely on CFD applications to capture the multi -dimensional fluid dynamic interactions and to quantify their effect on the RBCC system performance. Therefore, the accuracy of these CFD codes must be determined through detailed comparisons with test data. The PERC experiments build upon the well-known 1968 rocket-ejector experiments of Odegaard and Stroup by employing advanced optical and laser based diagnostics to evaluate mixing and secondary combustion. The Finite Difference Navier Stokes (FDNS) code [2] was used to model the fluid dynamics of the PERC RBCC ejector mode configuration. Analyses were performed for the Diffusion and Afterburning (DAB) test conditions at the 200-psia thruster operation point, Results with and without downstream fuel injection are presented.

40 CFR 1065.101 - Overview.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Overview. 1065.101 Section 1065.101 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING... equipment includes three broad categories-dynamometers, engine fluid systems (such as fuel and intake-air...

40 CFR 1065.101 - Overview.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Overview. 1065.101 Section 1065.101 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING... equipment includes three broad categories-dynamometers, engine fluid systems (such as fuel and intake-air...

40 CFR 1065.101 - Overview.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Overview. 1065.101 Section 1065.101 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING... equipment includes three broad categories-dynamometers, engine fluid systems (such as fuel and intake-air...

40 CFR 1065.101 - Overview.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 34 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Overview. 1065.101 Section 1065.101 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING... equipment includes three broad categories-dynamometers, engine fluid systems (such as fuel and intake-air...

40 CFR 1065.101 - Overview.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 33 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Overview. 1065.101 Section 1065.101 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR POLLUTION CONTROLS ENGINE-TESTING... equipment includes three broad categories-dynamometers, engine fluid systems (such as fuel and intake-air...

Honey Lake Geothermal Project, Lassen County, California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1984-11-01

The drilling, completion, and testing of deep well WEN-2 for a hybrid electric power project which will use the area's moderate temperature geothermal fluids and locally procured wood fuel is reported. The project is located within the Wendel-Amedee Known Geothermal Resource Area.

High temperature pressurized high frequency testing rig and test method

DOEpatents

De La Cruz, Jose; Lacey, Paul

2003-04-15

An apparatus is described which permits the lubricity of fuel compositions at or near temperatures and pressures experienced by compression ignition fuel injector components during operation in a running engine. The apparatus consists of means to apply a measured force between two surfaces and oscillate them at high frequency while wetted with a sample of the fuel composition heated to an operator selected temperature. Provision is made to permit operation at or near the flash point of the fuel compositions. Additionally a method of using the subject apparatus to simulate ASTM Testing Method D6079 is disclosed, said method involving using the disclosed apparatus to contact the faces of prepared workpieces under a measured load, sealing the workface contact point into the disclosed apparatus while immersing said contact point between said workfaces in a lubricating media to be tested, pressurizing and heating the chamber and thereby the fluid and workfaces therewithin, using the disclosed apparatus to impart a differential linear motion between the workpieces at their contact point until a measurable scar is imparted to at least one workpiece workface, and then evaluating the workface scar.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wiebe, David J; Fox, Timothy A

A fuel nozzle assembly for use in a combustor apparatus of a gas turbine engine. An outer housing of the fuel nozzle assembly includes an inner volume and provides a direct structural connection between a duct structure and a fuel manifold. The duct structure defines a flow passage for combustion gases flowing within the combustor apparatus. The fuel manifold defines a fuel supply channel therein in fluid communication with a source of fuel. A fuel injector of the fuel nozzle assembly is provided in the inner volume of the outer housing and defines a fuel passage therein. The fuel passagemore » is in fluid communication with the fuel supply channel of the fuel manifold for distributing the fuel from the fuel supply channel into the flow passage of the duct structure.« less

Dispensing Equipment Testing with Mid-Level Ethanol/Gasoline Test Fluid: Summary Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Boyce, K.; Chapin, J. T.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL) Nonpetroleum-Based Fuel Task addresses the hurdles to commercialization of biomass-derived fuels and fuel blends. One such hurdle is the unknown compatibility of new fuels with current infrastructure, such as the equipment used at service stations to dispense fuel into automobiles. The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Vehicle Technology Program and the Biomass Program have engaged in a joint project to evaluate the potential for blending ethanol into gasoline at levels higher than nominal 10 volume percent. This project was established to help DOE and NREL better understand any potentially adverse impacts caused by amore » lack of knowledge about the compatibility of the dispensing equipment with ethanol blends higher than what the equipment was designed to dispense. This report provides data about the impact of introducing a gasoline with a higher volumetric ethanol content into service station dispensing equipment from a safety and a performance perspective.« less

40 CFR 60.100 - Applicability, designation of affected facility, and reconstruction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... petroleum refineries: fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerators, fuel gas combustion devices, and... petroleum refinery. (b) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator or fuel gas combustion device...) and (d) of this section. (c) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator under paragraph (b...

40 CFR 60.100 - Applicability, designation of affected facility, and reconstruction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... petroleum refineries: fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerators, fuel gas combustion devices, and... petroleum refinery. (b) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator or fuel gas combustion device...) and (d) of this section. (c) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator under paragraph (b...

40 CFR 60.100 - Applicability, designation of affected facility, and reconstruction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... petroleum refineries: fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerators, fuel gas combustion devices, and... petroleum refinery. (b) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator or fuel gas combustion device...) and (d) of this section. (c) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator under paragraph (b...

Coal slurry fuel supply and purge system

DOEpatents

McDowell, Robert E.; Basic, Steven L.; Smith, Russel M.

1994-01-01

A coal slurry fuel supply and purge system for a locomotive engines is disclosed which includes a slurry recirculation path, a stand-by path for circulating slurry during idle or states of the engine when slurry fuel in not required by the engine, and an engine header fluid path connected to the stand-by path, for supplying and purging slurry fuel to and from fuel injectors. A controller controls the actuation of valves to facilitate supply and purge of slurry to and from the fuel injectors. A method for supplying and purging coal slurry in a compression ignition engine is disclosed which includes controlling fluid flow devices and valves in a plurality of fluid paths to facilitate continuous slurry recirculation and supply and purge of or slurry based on the operating state of the engine.

Thermophysics Characterization of Kerosene Combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See

2000-01-01

A one-formula surrogate fuel formulation and its quasi-global combustion kinetics model are developed to support the design of injectors and thrust chambers of kerosene-fueled rocket engines. This surrogate fuel model depicts a fuel blend that properly represents the general physical and chemical properties of kerosene. The accompanying gaseous-phase thermodynamics of the surrogate fuel is anchored with the heat of formation of kerosene and verified by comparing a series of one-dimensional rocket thrust chamber calculations. The quasi-global combustion kinetics model consists of several global steps for parent fuel decomposition, soot formation, and soot oxidation, and a detailed wet-CO mechanism. The final thermophysics formulations are incorporated with a computational fluid dynamics model for prediction of the combustor efficiency of an uni-element, tri-propellant combustor and the radiation of a kerosene-fueled thruster plume. The model predictions agreed reasonably well with those of the tests.

Thermophysics Characterization of Kerosene Combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See

2001-01-01

A one-formula surrogate fuel formulation and its quasi-global combustion kinetics model are developed to support the design of injectors and thrust chambers of kerosene-fueled rocket engines. This surrogate fuel model depicts a fuel blend that properly represents the general physical and chemical properties of kerosene. The accompanying gaseous-phase thermodynamics of the surrogate fuel is anchored with the heat of formation of kerosene and verified by comparing a series of one-dimensional rocket thrust chamber calculations. The quasi-global combustion kinetics model consists of several global steps for parent fuel decomposition, soot formation, and soot oxidation and a detailed wet-CO mechanism to complete the combustion process. The final thermophysics formulations are incorporated with a computational fluid dynamics model for prediction of the combustion efficiency of an unielement, tripropellant combustor and the radiation of a kerosene-fueled thruster plume. The model predictions agreed reasonably well with those of the tests.

14 CFR 23.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... independent of those for every other engine or supercharger. (e) For each fluid injection (other than fuel... flow of the injection fluid is adequately controlled. (f) If a power, thrust, or a fuel control (other than a mixture control) incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

14 CFR 23.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... independent of those for every other engine or supercharger. (e) For each fluid injection (other than fuel... flow of the injection fluid is adequately controlled. (f) If a power, thrust, or a fuel control (other than a mixture control) incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

Fluid flow plate for decreased density of fuel cell assembly

DOEpatents

Vitale, Nicholas G.

1999-01-01

A fluid flow plate includes first and second outward faces. Each of the outward faces has a flow channel thereon for carrying respective fluid. At least one of the fluids serves as reactant fluid for a fuel cell of a fuel cell assembly. One or more pockets are formed between the first and second outward faces for decreasing density of the fluid flow plate. A given flow channel can include one or more end sections and an intermediate section. An interposed member can be positioned between the outward faces at an interface between an intermediate section, of one of the outward faces, and an end section, of that outward face. The interposed member can serve to isolate the reactant fluid from the opposing outward face. The intermediate section(s) of flow channel(s) on an outward face are preferably formed as a folded expanse.

Fuel injector system

DOEpatents

Hsu, Bertrand D.; Leonard, Gary L.

1988-01-01

A fuel injection system particularly adapted for injecting coal slurry fuels at high pressures includes an accumulator-type fuel injector which utilizes high-pressure pilot fuel as a purging fluid to prevent hard particles in the fuel from impeding the opening and closing movement of a needle valve, and as a hydraulic medium to hold the needle valve in its closed position. A fluid passage in the injector delivers an appropriately small amount of the ignition-aiding pilot fuel to an appropriate region of a chamber in the injector's nozzle so that at the beginning of each injection interval the first stratum of fuel to be discharged consists essentially of pilot fuel and thereafter mostly slurry fuel is injected.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jensen, Colby B.; Folsom, Charles P.; Davis, Cliff B.

Experimental testing in the Multi-Static Environment Rodlet Transient Test Apparatus (SERTTA) will lead the rebirth of transient fuel testing in the United States as part of the Accident Tolerant Fuels (ATF) progam. The Multi-SERTTA is comprised of four isolated pressurized environments capable of a wide variety of working fluids and thermal conditions. Ultimately, the TREAT reactor as well as the Multi-SERTTA test vehicle serve the purpose of providing desired thermal-hydraulic boundary conditions to the test specimen. The initial ATF testing in TREAT will focus on reactivity insertion accident (RIA) events using both gas and water environments including typical PWR operatingmore » pressures and temperatures. For the water test environment, a test configuration is envisioned using the expansion tank as part of the gas-filled expansion volume seen by the test to provide additional pressure relief. The heat transfer conditions during the high energy power pulses of RIA events remains a subject of large uncertainty and great importance for fuel performance predictions. To support transient experiments, the Multi-SERTTA vehicle has been modeled using RELAP5 with a baseline test specimen composed of UO2 fuel in zircaloy cladding. The modeling results show the influence of the designs of the specimen, vehicle, and transient power pulses. The primary purpose of this work is to provide input and boundary conditions to fuel performance code BISON. Therefore, studies of parameters having influence on specimen performance during RIA transients are presented including cladding oxidation, power pulse magnitude and width, cladding-to-coolant heat fluxes, fuel-to-cladding gap, transient boiling effects (modified CHF values), etc. The results show the great flexibility and capacity of the TREAT Multi-SERTTA test vehicle to provide testing under a wide range of prototypic thermal-hydraulic conditions as never done before.« less

Piloted rich-catalytic lean-burn hybrid combustor

DOEpatents

Newburry, Donald Maurice

2002-01-01

A catalytic combustor assembly which includes, an air source, a fuel delivery means, a catalytic reactor assembly, a mixing chamber, and a means for igniting a fuel/air mixture. The catalytic reactor assembly is in fluid communication with the air source and fuel delivery means and has a fuel/air plenum which is coated with a catalytic material. The fuel/air plenum has cooling air conduits passing therethrough which have an upstream end. The upstream end of the cooling conduits is in fluid communication with the air source but not the fuel delivery means.

Fuel delivery system including heat exchanger means

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coffinberry, G. A. (Inventor)

1978-01-01

A fuel delivery system is presented wherein first and second heat exchanger means are each adapted to provide the transfer of heat between the fuel and a second fluid such as lubricating oil associated with the gas turbine engine. Valve means are included which are operative in a first mode to provide for flow of the second fluid through both first and second heat exchange means and further operative in a second mode for bypassing the second fluid around the second heat exchanger means.

System for supporting a bundled tube fuel injector within a combustor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LeBegue, Jeffrey Scott; Melton, Patrick Benedict; Westmoreland, III, James Harold

A combustor includes an end cover having an outer side and an inner side, an outer barrel having a forward end that is adjacent to the inner side of the end cover and an aft end that is axially spaced from the forward end. An inner barrel is at least partially disposed concentrically within the outer barrel and is fixedly connected to the outer barrel. A fluid conduit extends downstream from the end cover. A first bundled tube fuel injector segment is disposed concentrically within the inner barrel. The bundled tube fuel injector segment includes a fuel plenum that ismore » in fluid communication with the fluid conduit and a plurality of parallel tubes that extend axially through the fuel plenum. The bundled tube fuel injector segment is fixedly connected to the inner barrel.« less

Nitrous Oxide/Paraffin Hybrid Rocket Engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zubrin, Robert; Snyder, Gary

2010-01-01

Nitrous oxide/paraffin (N2OP) hybrid rocket engines have been invented as alternatives to other rocket engines especially those that burn granular, rubbery solid fuels consisting largely of hydroxyl- terminated polybutadiene (HTPB). Originally intended for use in launching spacecraft, these engines would also be suitable for terrestrial use in rocket-assisted takeoff of small airplanes. The main novel features of these engines are (1) the use of reinforced paraffin as the fuel and (2) the use of nitrous oxide as the oxidizer. Hybrid (solid-fuel/fluid-oxidizer) rocket engines offer advantages of safety and simplicity over fluid-bipropellant (fluid-fuel/fluid-oxidizer) rocket en - gines, but the thrusts of HTPB-based hybrid rocket engines are limited by the low regression rates of the fuel grains. Paraffin used as a solid fuel has a regression rate about 4 times that of HTPB, but pure paraffin fuel grains soften when heated; hence, paraffin fuel grains can, potentially, slump during firing. In a hybrid engine of the present type, the paraffin is molded into a 3-volume-percent graphite sponge or similar carbon matrix, which supports the paraffin against slumping during firing. In addition, because the carbon matrix material burns along with the paraffin, engine performance is not appreciably degraded by use of the matrix.

Supercritical Fuel Pyrolysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-05-30

supercritical fluids . These temperatures and pressures will also cause the fuel to undergo pyrolytic reactions, which have the potential of forming...With regard to physical properties, supercritical fluids have highly variable densities, no surface tension, and transport properties (i.e., mass...effects in supercritical fluids , often affecting chemical reaction pathways by facilitating the formation of certain transition states [6]. Because

14 CFR 25.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) For each fluid injection (other than fuel) system and its controls... injection fluid is adequately controlled. (e) If a power or thrust control incorporates a fuel shutoff...

14 CFR 25.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) For each fluid injection (other than fuel) system and its controls... injection fluid is adequately controlled. (e) If a power or thrust control incorporates a fuel shutoff...

Spreading the Word on Safety

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2004-01-01

Beginning with the Apollo Program in the early 1960s, the NASA White Sands Test Facility (WSTF) has supported every U.S. human exploration space flight program to date. Located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, WSTF is part of Johnson Space Center. The facility's primary mission is to provide the expertise and infrastructure to test and evaluate spacecraft materials, components, and rocket propulsion systems to enable the safe human exploration and utilization of space. WSTF stores, tests, and disposes of Space Shuttle and International Space Station propellants. Since aerospace fluids can have harmful reactions with the construction materials of the systems containing them, a major component of WSTF's work is the study of propellants and hazardous materials. WSTF has a wide variety of resources to draw upon in assessing the fire, explosion, compatibility, and safety hazards of these fluids, which include hydrogen, oxygen, hydrazine fuels, and nitrogen tetroxide. In addition to developing new test methods, WSTF has created technical manuals and training courses for the safe use of aerospace fluids.

Three-step labyrinth seal for high-performance turbomachines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hendricks, Robert C.

1987-01-01

A three-step labyrinth seal with 12, 11, and 10 labyrinth teeth per step, respectively, was tested under static (nonrotating) conditions. The configuration represented the seal for a high-performance turbopump (e.g., the space shuttle main engine fuel pump). The test data included critical mass flux and pressure profiles over a wide range of fluid conditions at concentric, partially eccentric, and fully eccentric seal positions. The seal mass fluxes (leakage rates) were lower over the entire range of fluid conditions tested than those for data collected for similar straight and three-step cylindrical seals, and this conformed somewhat to expectations. However, the pressure profiles for the eccentric positions indicated little, if any, direct stiffness for this configuration in contrast to significant direct stiffness reported for the straight and three-step cylindrical seals over the range of test conditions. Seal dynamics depend on geometric configuration, inlet and exit parameters, fluid phase, and rotation. The method of corresponding states was applied to the mass flux data, which were found to have a pressure dependency for helium.

Fuel cell membrane hydration and fluid metering

DOEpatents

Jones, Daniel O.; Walsh, Michael M.

1999-01-01

A hydration system includes fuel cell fluid flow plate(s) and injection port(s). Each plate has flow channel(s) with respective inlet(s) for receiving respective portion(s) of a given stream of reactant fluid for a fuel cell. Each injection port injects a portion of liquid water directly into its respective flow channel in order to mix its respective portion of liquid water with the corresponding portion of the stream. This serves to hydrate at least corresponding part(s) of a given membrane of the corresponding fuel cell(s). The hydration system may be augmented by a metering system including flow regulator(s). Each flow regulator meters an injecting at inlet(s) of each plate of respective portions of liquid into respective portion(s) of a given stream of fluid by corresponding injection port(s).

Press fluid pre-treatment optimisation of the integrated generation of solid fuel and biogas from biomass (IFBB) process approach.

PubMed

Corton, John; Toop, Trisha; Walker, Jonathan; Donnison, Iain S; Fraser, Mariecia D

2014-10-01

The integrated generation of solid fuel and biogas from biomass (IFBB) system is an innovative approach to maximising energy conversion from low input high diversity (LIHD) biomass. In this system water pre-treated and ensiled LIHD biomass is pressed. The press fluid is anaerobically digested to produce methane that is used to power the process. The fibrous fraction is densified and then sold as a combustion fuel. Two process options designed to concentrate the press fluid were assessed to ascertain their influence on productivity in an IFBB like system: sedimentation and the omission of pre-treatment water. By concentrating press fluid and not adding water during processing, energy production from methane was increased by 75% per unit time and solid fuel productivity increased by 80% per unit of fluid produced. The additional energy requirements for pressing more biomass in order to generate equal volumes of feedstock were accounted for in these calculations. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Heat Transfer Enhancement By Three-Dimensional Surface Roughness Technique In Nuclear Fuel Rod Bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Najeeb, Umair

This thesis experimentally investigates the enhancement of single-phase heat transfer, frictional loss and pressure drop characteristics in a Single Heater Element Loop Tester (SHELT). The heater element simulates a single fuel rod for Pressurized Nuclear reactor. In this experimental investigation, the effect of the outer surface roughness of a simulated nuclear rod bundle was studied. The outer surface of a simulated fuel rod was created with a three-dimensional (Diamond-shaped blocks) surface roughness. The angle of corrugation for each diamond was 45 degrees. The length of each side of a diamond block is 1 mm. The depth of each diamond block was 0.3 mm. The pitch of the pattern was 1.614 mm. The simulated fuel rod had an outside diameter of 9.5 mm and wall thickness of 1.5 mm and was placed in a test-section made of 38.1 mm inner diameter, wall thickness 6.35 mm aluminum pipe. The Simulated fuel rod was made of Nickel 200 and Inconel 625 materials. The fuel rod was connected to 10 KW DC power supply. The Inconel 625 material of the rod with an electrical resistance of 32.3 kO was used to generate heat inside the test-section. The heat energy dissipated from the Inconel tube due to the flow of electrical current flows into the working fluid across the rod at constant heat flux conditions. The DI water was employed as working fluid for this experimental investigation. The temperature and pressure readings for both smooth and rough regions of the fuel rod were recorded and compared later to find enhancement in heat transfer coefficient and increment in the pressure drops. Tests were conducted for Reynold's Numbers ranging from 10e4 to 10e5. Enhancement in heat transfer coefficient at all Re was recorded. The maximum heat transfer co-efficient enhancement recorded was 86% at Re = 4.18e5. It was also observed that the pressure drop and friction factor increased by 14.7% due to the increased surface roughness.

Fuel cell water transport

DOEpatents

Vanderborgh, Nicholas E.; Hedstrom, James C.

1990-01-01

The moisture content and temperature of hydrogen and oxygen gases is regulated throughout traverse of the gases in a fuel cell incorporating a solid polymer membrane. At least one of the gases traverses a first flow field adjacent the solid polymer membrane, where chemical reactions occur to generate an electrical current. A second flow field is located sequential with the first flow field and incorporates a membrane for effective water transport. A control fluid is then circulated adjacent the second membrane on the face opposite the fuel cell gas wherein moisture is either transported from the control fluid to humidify a fuel gas, e.g., hydrogen, or to the control fluid to prevent excess water buildup in the oxidizer gas, e.g., oxygen. Evaporation of water into the control gas and the control gas temperature act to control the fuel cell gas temperatures throughout the traverse of the fuel cell by the gases.

Supercritical Fuel Pyrolysis

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-05-28

be supercritical fluids . These temperatures and pressures will also cause the fuel to undergo pyrolytic reactions, which have the potential of forming...physical properties, supercritical fluids have highly variable densities, no surface tension, and transport properties (i.e., mass, energy, and momentum...are very dependent on pressure, chemical reaction rates in supercritical fluids can be highly pressure-dependent [6-9]. The kinetic reaction rate

Fluid flow and fuel-air mixing in a motored two-dimensional Wankel rotary engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shih, T. I.-P.; Nguyen, H. L.; Stegeman, J.

1986-01-01

The implicit-factored method of Beam and Warming was employed to obtain numerical solutions to the conservation equations of mass, species, momentum, and energy to study the unsteady, multidimensional flow and mixing of fuel and air inside the combustion chambers of a two-dimensional Wankel rotary engine under motored conditions. The effects of the following engine design and operating parameters on fluid flow and fuel-air mixing during the intake and compression cycles were studied: engine speed, angle of gaseous fuel injection during compression cycle, and speed of the fuel leaving fuel injector.

Fluid flow and fuel-air mixing in a motored two-dimensional Wankel rotary engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shih, T. I.-P.; Nguyen, H. L.; Stegeman, J.

1986-06-01

The implicit-factored method of Beam and Warming was employed to obtain numerical solutions to the conservation equations of mass, species, momentum, and energy to study the unsteady, multidimensional flow and mixing of fuel and air inside the combustion chambers of a two-dimensional Wankel rotary engine under motored conditions. The effects of the following engine design and operating parameters on fluid flow and fuel-air mixing during the intake and compression cycles were studied: engine speed, angle of gaseous fuel injection during compression cycle, and speed of the fuel leaving fuel injector.

Hydrogen storage systems based on magnesium hydride: from laboratory tests to fuel cell integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Rango, P.; Marty, P.; Fruchart, D.

2016-02-01

The paper reviews the state of the art of hydrogen storage systems based on magnesium hydride, emphasizing the role of thermal management, whose effectiveness depends on the effective thermal conductivity of the hydride, but also depends of other limiting factors such as wall contact resistance and convective exchanges with the heat transfer fluid. For daily cycles, the use of phase change material to store the heat of reaction appears to be the most effective solution. The integration with fuel cells (1 kWe proton exchange membrane fuel cell and solid oxide fuel cell) highlights the dynamic behaviour of these systems, which is related to the thermodynamic properties of MgH2. This allows for "self-adaptive" systems that do not require control of the hydrogen flow rate at the inlet of the fuel cell.

End plate assembly having a two-phase fluid-filled bladder and method for compressing a fuel cell stack

DOEpatents

Carlstrom, Jr., Charles M.

2001-01-01

An end plate assembly is disclosed for use in a fuel cell assembly in which the end plate assembly includes a housing having a cavity, and a bladder receivable in the cavity and engageable with the fuel cell stack. The bladder includes a two-phase fluid having a liquid portion and a vapor portion. Desirably, the two-phase fluid has a vapor pressure between about 100 psi and about 600 psi at a temperature between about 70 degrees C. to about 110 degrees C.

Application of microturbines to control emissions from associated gas

DOEpatents

Schmidt, Darren D.

2013-04-16

A system for controlling the emission of associated gas produced from a reservoir. In an embodiment, the system comprises a gas compressor including a gas inlet in fluid communication with an associated gas source and a gas outlet. The gas compressor adjusts the pressure of the associated gas to produce a pressure-regulated associated gas. In addition, the system comprises a gas cleaner including a gas inlet in fluid communication with the outlet of the gas compressor, a fuel gas outlet, and a waste product outlet. The gas cleaner separates at least a portion of the sulfur and the water from the associated gas to produce a fuel gas. Further, the system comprises a gas turbine including a fuel gas inlet in fluid communication with the fuel gas outlet of the gas cleaner and an air inlet. Still further, the system comprises a choke in fluid communication with the air inlet.

Reactive flash volatilization of fluid fuels

DOEpatents

Schmidt, Lanny D.; Dauenhauer, Paul J.; Dreyer, Bradon J.; Salge, James R.

2013-01-08

The invention provides methods for the production of synthesis gas. More particularly, various embodiments of the invention relate to systems and methods for volatilizing fluid fuel to produce synthesis gas by using a metal catalyst on a solid support matrix.

Multidisciplinary Simulation of Graphite-Composite and Cermet Fuel Elements for NTP Point of Departure Designs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Mark E.; Schnitzler, Bruce G.

2015-01-01

This paper compares the expected performance of two Nuclear Thermal Propulsion fuel types. High fidelity, fluid/thermal/structural + neutronic simulations help predict the performance of graphite-composite and cermet fuel types from point of departure engine designs from the Nuclear Thermal Propulsion project. Materials and nuclear reactivity issues are reviewed for each fuel type. Thermal/structural simulations predict thermal stresses in the fuel and thermal expansion mis-match stresses in the coatings. Fluid/thermal/structural/neutronic simulations provide predictions for full fuel elements. Although NTP engines will utilize many existing chemical engine components and technologies, nuclear fuel elements are a less developed engine component and introduce design uncertainty. Consequently, these fuel element simulations provide important insights into NTP engine performance.

Orbital storage and supply of subcritical liquid nitrogen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aydelott, John C.

1990-01-01

Subcritical cryogenic fluid management has long been recognized as an enabling technology for key propulsion applications, such as space transfer vehicles (STV) and the on-orbit cryogenic fuel depots which will provide STV servicing capability. The LeRC Cryogenic Fluids Technology Office (CFTO), under the sponsorship of OAST, has the responsibility of developing the required technology via a balanced program involving analytical modeling, ground based testing, and in-space experimentation. Topics covered in viewgraph form include: cryogenic management technologies; nitrogen storage and supply; cryogenic nitrogen cooling capability; and LN2 system demonstration technical objectives.

Automated Method for Estimating Nutation Time Constant Model Parameters for Spacecraft Spinning on Axis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

Calculating an accurate nutation time constant (NTC), or nutation rate of growth, for a spinning upper stage is important for ensuring mission success. Spacecraft nutation, or wobble, is caused by energy dissipation anywhere in the system. Propellant slosh in the spacecraft fuel tanks is the primary source for this dissipation and, if it is in a state of resonance, the NTC can become short enough to violate mission constraints. The Spinning Slosh Test Rig (SSTR) is a forced-motion spin table where fluid dynamic effects in full-scale fuel tanks can be tested in order to obtain key parameters used to calculate the NTC. We accomplish this by independently varying nutation frequency versus the spin rate and measuring force and torque responses on the tank. This method was used to predict parameters for the Genesis, Contour, and Stereo missions, whose tanks were mounted outboard from the spin axis. These parameters are incorporated into a mathematical model that uses mechanical analogs, such as pendulums and rotors, to simulate the force and torque resonances associated with fluid slosh.

Development of advanced fuel cell system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gitlow, B.; Meyer, A. P.; Bell, W. F.; Martin, R. E.

1978-01-01

An experimental program was conducted continuing the development effort to improve the weight, life, and performance characteristics of hydrogen-oxygen alkaline fuel cells for advanced power systems. These advanced technology cells operate with passive water removal which contributes to a lower system weight and extended operating life. Endurance evaluation of two single cells and two, two-cell plaques was continued. Three new test articles were fabricated and tested. A single cell completed 7038 hours of endurance testing. This cell incorporated a Fybex matrix, hybrid-frame, PPF anode, and a 90 Au/10 Pt cathode. This configuration was developed to extend cell life. Two cell plaques with dedicated flow fields and manifolds for all fluids did not exhibit the cell-to-cell electrolyte transfer that limited the operating life of earlier multicell plaques.

Investigation of spray dispersion and particulate formation in diesel fuel flames

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Back, L. H.; Bankston, C. P.; Kwack, E. Y.; Bellan, J.; Harstad, K.

1988-01-01

An experimental study of electrostatical atomized and dispersed diesel fuel jets was conducted at various back pressures to 40 atm. A new electrostatic injection technique was utilized to generate continuous, stable fuel sprays at charge densities of 1.5 to 2.0 C/m3 of fluid at one atm, and about 1.0 C/m3 at 40 atm. Flowrates were varied from 0.5 to 2.5 ml/s and electric potentials to -18 kV. Visual observations showed that significant enhanced dispersion of charged fuel jets occurred at high back pressures compared to aerodynamic breakup and dispersion. The average drop size was about the same as the spray triode orifice diameter, and was between the Kelly theory and the Rayleigh limit. The ignition tests, done only at one atm, indicated stable combustion of the electrostatically dispersed fuel jets.

Fuel injection and mixing systems and methods of using the same

DOEpatents

Mao, Chien-Pei; Short, John

2010-08-03

A fuel injection and mixing system is provided. The system includes an injector body having a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet, and defines a fuel flow path between the inlet and outlet. The fuel flow path may include a generally helical flow passage having an inlet end portion disposed proximate the fuel inlet of the injector body. The flow path also may include an expansion chamber downstream from and in fluid communication with the helical flow passage, as well as a fuel delivery device in fluid communication with the expansion chamber for delivering fuel. Heating means is also provided in thermal communication with the injector body. The heating means may be adapted and configured for maintaining the injector body at a predetermined temperature to heat fuel traversing the flow path. A method of preheating and delivering fuel is also provided.

Current conducting end plate of fuel cell assembly

DOEpatents

Walsh, Michael M.

1999-01-01

A fuel cell assembly has a current conducting end plate with a conductive body formed integrally with isolating material. The conductive body has a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and an electrical connector. The first surface has an exposed portion for conducting current between a working section of the fuel cell assembly and the electrical connector. The isolating material is positioned on at least a portion of the second surface. The conductive body can have support passage(s) extending therethrough for receiving structural member(s) of the fuel cell assembly. Isolating material can electrically isolate the conductive body from the structural member(s). The conductive body can have service passage(s) extending therethrough for servicing one or more fluids for the fuel cell assembly. Isolating material can chemically isolate the one or more fluids from the conductive body. The isolating material can also electrically isolate the conductive body from the one or more fluids.

Electrochemical Orbital Energy Storage (ECOES) technology program. [regenerative fuel cell system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcbryar, H.

1980-01-01

The versatility and flexibility of a regenerative fuel cell power and energy storage system is considered. The principal elements of a Regenerative Fuel Cell System combine the fuel cell and electrolysis cell with a photovoltaic solar cell array, along with fluid storage and transfer equipment. The power output of the array (for LEO) must be roughly triple the load requirements of the vehicle since the electrolyzers must receive about double the fuel cell output power in order to regenerate the reactants (2/3 of the array power) while 1/3 of the array power supplies the vehicle base load. The working fluids are essentially recycled indefinitely. Any resupply requirements necessitated by leakage or inefficient reclamation is water - an ideal material to handle and transport. Any variation in energy storage capacity impacts only the fluid storage portion, and the system is insensitive to use of reserve reactant capacity.

FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, FUELS AND RELATED MATERIALS. Quarterly Report for July, August, and September 1959. Sept. 30, 1959. Appendix I: SURVEY OF HYDRAULIC FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, AND WORKING FLUIDS FOR AERONAUTIC AND ASTRONAUTIC APPLICATIONS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fenske, M.R.; Klaus, E.E.

1959-11-01

Results obtained in a Vickers pump test program in which a prototype mineral oil designed for operation at -65 to +700 deg F are discussed. The fluid (MLO-7460) used in this program exhibits the same general high temperature lubricity and stability behavior as the low temperature fluid (MLO-7485). However, this fluid contains wax and does not have the same low temperature properties as those of MLO-7485. Preliminary evaluation of several fluids which were stored in an unheated building for 2 to 17 years was carried out. Included in the evaluation were esters, mineral oils, and hydrocarbons, as well as formulationsmore » using these materials as base stocks. Changes in properties were noted and evidence is presented to show that additives may adversely affect storage stability in some cases. Data from a series of oxidation tests involving esters at 400 deg F are presented along with a discussion of the effectiveness of additives. Assimilation data show a predictable oxygen absorption rate during the stable life period, which is affected by the use of additive combinations. Magnesium corrosion was encountered in the 400 deg F tests and data on oxidation behavior of this material are included. Effects of a dispersant acryloid and of a dialkyl acid phosphite lubricity additive on fluid dirtiness are discussed. A series of deposition tests was conducted in a controlled atmosphere panel coker. A comparison of paraffinic and naphthenic mineral oil formulations tested in the coker is presented. Decreasing coking tendencies with increasing boiling point is illustrated for a series of oxygen. Assimilation is lower for higher volatility fluids which also show excessive coking. The increased coke deposit caused by the presence of a dithiocarbamate in the test fluid is shown to be materially reduced by the addition of a dispersant acryloid to the formulation. Deposition type tests were conducted in a single-pass high temperature tube rig. The effect of such variables as storage time of flat fluid, acid phosphate additives, fluid volatility, test time, and type of metal deposition surface was determined. (For preceding period see PRL 5.27.) (J.R.D.)« less

Advancements in Dual-Pump Broadband CARS for Supersonic Combustion Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tedder, Sarah Augusta Umberger

2010-01-01

Space- and time-resolved measurements of temperature and species mole fractions of nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen were obtained with a dual-pump coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) system in hydrogen-fueled supersonic combustion free jet flows. These measurements were taken to provide time-resolved fluid properties of turbulent supersonic combustion for use in the creation and verification of computational fluid dynamic (CFD) models. CFD models of turbulent supersonic combustion flow currently facilitate the design of air-breathing supersonic combustion ramjet (scramjet) engines. Measurements were made in supersonic axi-symmetric free jets of two scales. First, the measurement system was tested in a laboratory environment using a laboratory-scale burner (approx.10 mm at nozzle exit). The flow structures of the laboratory-burner were too small to be resolved with the CARS measurements volume, but the composition and temperature of the jet allowed the performance of the system to be evaluated. Subsequently, the system was tested in a burner that was approximately 6 times larger, whose length scales are better resolved by the CARS measurement volume. During both these measurements, weaknesses of the CARS system, such as sensitivity to vibrations and beam steering and inability to measure temperature or species concentrations in hydrogen fuel injection regions were indentified. Solutions were then implemented in improved CARS systems. One of these improved systems is a dual-pump broadband CARS technique called, Width Increased Dual-pump Enhanced CARS (WIDECARS). The two lowest rotational energy levels of hydrogen detectable by WIDECARS are H2 S(3) and H2 S(4). The detection of these lines gives the system the capability to measure temperature and species concentrations in regions of the flow containing pure hydrogen fuel at room temperature. WIDECARS is also designed for measurements of all the major species (except water) in supersonic combustion flows fueled with hydrogen and hydrogen/ethylene mixtures (N2, O2, H2, C2H4, CO, and CO2). This instrument can characterize supersonic combustion fueled with surrogate fuel mixtures of hydrogen and ethylene. This information can lead to a better understanding of the chemistry and performance of supersonic combustion fueled with cracked jet propulsion (JP)-type fuel.

Ultra low injection angle fuel holes in a combustor fuel nozzle

DOEpatents

York, William David

2012-10-23

A fuel nozzle for a combustor includes a mixing passage through which fluid is directed toward a combustion area and a plurality of swirler vanes disposed in the mixing passage. Each swirler vane of the plurality of swirler vanes includes at least one fuel hole through which fuel enters the mixing passage in an injection direction substantially parallel to an outer surface of the plurality of swirler vanes thereby decreasing a flameholding tendency of the fuel nozzle. A method of operating a fuel nozzle for a combustor includes flowing a fluid through a mixing passage past a plurality of swirler vanes and injecting a fuel into the mixing passage in an injection direction substantially parallel to an outer surface of the plurality of swirler vanes.

Intermediate Temperature Fluids Life Tests - Experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, William G.; Bonner, Richard W.; Dussinger, Peter M.; Hartenstine, John R.; Sarraf, David B.; Locci, Ivan E.

2007-01-01

There are a number of different applications that could use heat pipes or loop heat pipes (LHPs) in the intermediate temperature range of 450 to 725 K (170 to 450 C), including space nuclear power system radiators, fuel cells, and high temperature electronics cooling. Historically, water has been used in heat pipes at temperatures up to about 425 K (150 C). Recent life tests, updated below, demonstrate that titanium/water and Monel/water heat pipes can be used at temperatures up to 550 K (277 C), due to water's favorable transport properties. At temperatures above roughly 570 K (300 C), water is no longer a suitable fluid, due to high vapor pressure and low surface tension as the critical point is approached. At higher temperatures, another working fluid/envelope combination is required, either an organic or halide working fluid. An electromotive force method was used to predict the compatibility of halide working fluids with envelope materials. This procedure was used to reject aluminum and aluminum alloys as envelope materials, due to their high decomposition potential. Titanium and three corrosion resistant superalloys were chosen as envelope materials. Life tests were conducted with these envelopes and six different working fluids: AlBr3, GaCl3, SnCl4, TiCl4, TiBr4, and eutectic diphenyl/diphenyl oxide (Therminol VP-1/Dowtherm A). All of the life tests except for the GaCl3 are ongoing; the GaCl3 was incompatible. As the temperature approaches 725 K (450 C), cesium is a potential heat pipe working fluid. Life tests results are also presented for cesium/Monel 400 and cesium/70-30 copper/nickel heat pipes operating near 750 K (477 C). These materials are not suitable for long term operation, due to copper transport from the condenser to the evaporator.

Elastomer Impact When Switch-Loading Synthetic Fuel Blends and Petroleum Fuels

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-07-01

aromatics by ASTM D 5186 ( supercrital Fluid Chromatography method used for aromatics) in reference 4, was assumed to be equivalent to volume percent...Included in Appendix C is the internet link to the datasheets for the aromatic surrogate, Aromatic 150 Fluid . Characterizations of this aromatic...www.exxonmobilchemical.com/Public_Products/ Fluids /Aromatics_HeavyAromatics/Worldwi de/Grades_and_DataSheets/Aro_HeavyAromatics_Solvesso_Grades_WW.asp 21

Fluid valve with wide temperature range

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kast, Howard Berdolt (Inventor)

1976-01-01

A fluid valve suitable for either metering or pressure regulating fluids at various temperatures is provided for a fuel system as may be utilized in an aircraft gas turbine engine. The valve includes a ceramic or carbon pad which cooperates with a window in a valve plate to provide a variable area orifice which remains operational during large and sometimes rapid variations in temperature incurred from the use of different fuels.

Evaluation of Thin Plate Hydrodynamic Stability through a Combined Numerical Modeling and Experimental Effort

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tentner, A.; Bojanowski, C.; Feldman, E.

An experimental and computational effort was undertaken in order to evaluate the capability of the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation tools to describe the deflection of a Missouri University Research Reactor (MURR) fuel element plate redesigned for conversion to lowenriched uranium (LEU) fuel due to hydrodynamic forces. Experiments involving both flat plates and curved plates were conducted in a water flow test loop located at the University of Missouri (MU), at conditions and geometries that can be related to the MURR LEU fuel element. A wider channel gap on one side of the test plate, and a narrower on the othermore » represent the differences that could be encountered in a MURR element due to allowed fabrication variability. The difference in the channel gaps leads to a pressure differential across the plate, leading to plate deflection. The induced plate deflection the pressure difference induces in the plate was measured at specified locations using a laser measurement technique. High fidelity 3-D simulations of the experiments were performed at MU using the computational fluid dynamics code STAR-CCM+ coupled with the structural mechanics code ABAQUS. Independent simulations of the experiments were performed at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) using the STAR-CCM+ code and its built-in structural mechanics solver. The simulation results obtained at MU and ANL were compared with the corresponding measured plate deflections.« less

APPLICATION OF CAPILLARY SUPERCRITICAL FLUID CHROMATOGRAPHY TO THE ANALYSIS OF A MIDDLE DISTILLATE FUEL

EPA Science Inventory

The paper describes the application of capillary supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) to the analysis of a middle distillate fuel. Small diameter (50 micrometer i.d.) fused silica capillary columns coated with crosslinked 50% phenyl polymethylsiloxane provided high separation...

40 CFR 60.100 - Applicability, designation of affected facility, and reconstruction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... petroleum refineries: fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerators, fuel gas combustion devices, and... petroleum refinery. (b) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator or fuel gas combustion device... regenerator under paragraph (b) of this section which commences construction, reconstruction, or modification...

40 CFR 60.100 - Applicability, designation of affected facility, and reconstruction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... petroleum refineries: fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerators, fuel gas combustion devices, and... petroleum refinery. (b) Any fluid catalytic cracking unit catalyst regenerator or fuel gas combustion device... regenerator under paragraph (b) of this section which commences construction, reconstruction, or modification...

NEUTRONIC REACTORS

DOEpatents

Vernon, H.C.

1959-01-13

A neutronic reactor of the heterogeneous, fluid cooled tvpe is described. The reactor is comprised of a pressure vessel containing the moderator and a plurality of vertically disposed channels extending in spaced relationship through the moderator. Fissionable fuel material is placed within the channels in spaced relationship thereto to permit circulation of the coolant fluid. Separate means are provided for cooling the moderator and for circulating a fluid coolant thru the channel elements to cool the fuel material.

Laser-Based Flowfield Imaging in a Lean Premixed Prevaporized Sector Combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hicks, Yolanda R.; Locke, Randy J.; Anderson, Robert C.

2005-01-01

OH and fuel planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) is used qualitatively in this study to observe the flame structure resultant from different fuel injector dome configurations within the 3-cup sector combustor test rig. The fluorescence images are compared with some computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results. Interferences in obtaining OH fluorescence signals due to the emission of other species are assessed. NO PLIF images are presented and compared to gas analysis results. The comparison shows that PLIF NO can be an excellent method for measuring NO in the flame. Additionally, we present flow visualization of the molecular species C2.

Characterization of hydrofoil damping due to fluid-structure interaction using piezocomposite actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeley, Charles; Coutu, André; Monette, Christine; Nennemann, Bernd; Marmont, Hugues

2012-03-01

Hydroelectric power generation is an important non-fossil fuel power source to help meet the world’s energy needs. Fluid-structure interaction (FSI), in the form of mass loading and damping, governs the dynamic response of water turbines, such as Francis turbines. Although the effects of fluid mass loading are well documented, fluid damping is also a critical quantity that may limit vibration amplitudes during service, and therefore help to avoid premature failure of the turbines. However, fluid damping has received less attention in the literature. This paper presents an experimental investigation of damping due to FSI. Three hydrofoils were designed and built to investigate damping due to FSI. Piezoelectric actuation using macrofiber composites (MFCs) provided excitation to the hydrofoil test structure, independent of the flow conditions, to overcome the noisy environment. Natural frequency and damping estimates were experimentally obtained from sine sweep frequency response functions measured with a laser vibrometer through a window in the test section. The results indicate that, although the natural frequencies were not substantially affected by the flow, the damping ratios were observed to increase in a linear manner with respect to flow velocity.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of High Injection Pressure Blended Biodiesel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalid, Amir; Jaat, Norrizam; Faisal Hushim, Mohd; Manshoor, Bukhari; Zaman, Izzuddin; Sapit, Azwan; Razali, Azahari

2017-08-01

Biodiesel have great potential for substitution with petrol fuel for the purpose of achieving clean energy production and emission reduction. Among the methods that can control the combustion properties, controlling of the fuel injection conditions is one of the successful methods. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of high injection pressure of biodiesel blends on spray characteristics using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Injection pressure was observed at 220 MPa, 250 MPa and 280 MPa. The ambient temperature was kept held at 1050 K and ambient pressure 8 MPa in order to simulate the effect of boost pressure or turbo charger during combustion process. Computational Fluid Dynamics were used to investigate the spray characteristics of biodiesel blends such as spray penetration length, spray angle and mixture formation of fuel-air mixing. The results shows that increases of injection pressure, wider spray angle is produced by biodiesel blends and diesel fuel. The injection pressure strongly affects the mixture formation, characteristics of fuel spray, longer spray penetration length thus promotes the fuel and air mixing.

Matching refractive indices of two fluids and finding interfacial tension for the purpose of fuel spray imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Y. H.

2017-06-01

This study attempts to prepare a fluid pair for use in spray dynamics investigations. Better understanding the behavior of fuel sprays is one of the things that can help improve the efficiency of internal combustion engines. To address the scattering issue in current imaging methods, the refractive index difference between the injected fluid and the medium that it is injected into is eliminated. Two immiscible fluids (sucrose solution and silicone oil) with the same refractive index was identified, their surface tension to build a model fluid engine system injection was also studied. At the same time, Weber number is found to help correct the difference. Results show that 63.7% mass sucrose solution has the same refractive index as silicone oil, and the sucrose solution/silicone oil interface has a surface tension of 0.08941 N/m, which is roughly four times larger than that of ethanol/air. This means using the sucrose/silicone oil fluid pair to model fuel spray will involve some adjustments to be accurate.

Aerothermal modeling program, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sturgess, G. J.

1983-01-01

The physical modeling embodied in the computational fluid dynamics codes is discussed. The objectives were to identify shortcomings in the models and to provide a program plan to improve the quantitative accuracy. The physical models studied were for: turbulent mass and momentum transport, heat release, liquid fuel spray, and gaseous radiation. The approach adopted was to test the models against appropriate benchmark-quality test cases from experiments in the literature for the constituent flows that together make up the combustor real flow.

Ejector-turbine studies and experimental data. Final report, August 1, 1979-October 31, 1982

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Minardi, J.E.; Lawson, M.O.; Krolak, R.V.

1982-11-01

An innovative low-power Rankine turbine concept is described which promises competitive efficiencies, low cost, significant reduction in rpm, low maintenance, and long-life operation over similarly rated turbines. The cycle uses a highly efficient two-fluid ejector which greatly lowers the turbine inlet pressure and temperature. The two-fluid ejector cycle is shown by theoretical studies to be capable of transferring energy at efficiencies in excess of 90% from a high-power flux fluid medium to a low-power flux fluid medium. The volume flow of the thermodynamic fluid can be augmented by as much as one-hundred fold. For very low-power turbine applications this couldmore » result in far-more-favorable turbine sizes and rpm. One major application for this type turbine is the heating and cooling with heat pumps. The concept permits engine cycles that cover an extremely broad range of peak temperatures, including those corresponding to stoichiometric combustion of hydrocarbon fuels, waste heat sources, and solar. Actual test data indicated ejector efficiencies as high as 85%. A two-fluid, ejector turbine was designed and tested. The turbine achieved 94% of design power. Additional data indicated that the ejector attached to the turbine operated on the supersonic branch.« less

Predicted thermal response of a cryogenic fuel tank exposed to simulated aerodynamic heating profiles with different cryogens and fill levels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hanna, Gregory J.; Stephens, Craig A.

1991-01-01

A two dimensional finite difference thermal model was developed to predict the effects of heating profile, fill level, and cryogen type prior to experimental testing the Generic Research Cryogenic Tank (GRCT). These numerical predictions will assist in defining test scenarios, sensor locations, and venting requirements for the GRCT experimental tests. Boiloff rates, tank-wall and fluid temperatures, and wall heat fluxes were determined for 20 computational test cases. The test cases spanned three discrete fill levels and three heating profiles for hydrogen and nitrogen.

Fuel Effects on Nozzle Flow and Spray Using Fully Coupled Eulerian Simulations

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

Density of liquid fuel, kg/m 3 = Density of ambient gas , kg/m 3 VOF = Volume of Fluid model = Volume of Fluid Scalar ROI = Rate of...have been reported arising from individual refinery processes, crude oil source, and also varying with season, year and age of the fuel. This myriad...configurations. Under reacting conditions, Violi et al. (6) presented a surrogate mixture of six pure hydrocarbon ( Utah surrogate) and found that it

Fuel Regression Rate Behavior of CAMUI Hybrid Rocket

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaneko, Yudai; Itoh, Mitsunori; Kakikura, Akihito; Mori, Kazuhiro; Uejima, Kenta; Nakashima, Takuji; Wakita, Masashi; Totani, Tsuyoshi; Oshima, Nobuyuki; Nagata, Harunori

A series of static firing tests was conducted to investigate the fuel regression characteristics of a Cascaded Multistage Impinging-jet (CAMUI) type hybrid rocket motor. A CAMUI type hybrid rocket uses the combination of liquid oxygen and a fuel grain made of polyethylene as a propellant. The collision distance divided by the port diameter, H/D, was varied to investigate the effect of the grain geometry on the fuel regression rate. As a result, the H/D geometry has little effect on the regression rate near the stagnation point, where the heat transfer coefficient is high. On the contrary, the fuel regression rate decreases near the circumference of the forward-end face and the backward-end face of fuel blocks. Besides the experimental approaches, a method of computational fluid dynamics clarified the heat transfer distribution on the grain surface with various H/D geometries. The calculation shows the decrease of the flow velocity due to the increase of H/D on the area where the fuel regression rate decreases with the increase of H/D. To estimate the exact fuel consumption, which is necessary to design a fuel grain, real-time measurement by an ultrasonic pulse-echo method was performed.

Synthesis of biodiesel fuel additives from glycerol using green chemistry and supercritical fluids

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

For every 3 moles of fatty acid esters produced, 1 mole of glycerol remains, ~11% of the biodiesel volume. One new method of glycerol use could be as a biodiesel fuel additive/extender using eco-friendly heterogeneous catalysts and supercritical fluids (SFs). SFs have advantages such as greater diff...

Computational Pollutant Environment Assessment from Propulsion-System Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See; McConnaughey, Paul; Chen, Yen-Sen; Warsi, Saif

1996-01-01

An asymptotic plume growth method based on a time-accurate three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics formulation has been developed to assess the exhaust-plume pollutant environment from a simulated RD-170 engine hot-fire test on the F1 Test Stand at Marshall Space Flight Center. Researchers have long known that rocket-engine hot firing has the potential for forming thermal nitric oxides, as well as producing carbon monoxide when hydrocarbon fuels are used. Because of the complex physics involved, most attempts to predict the pollutant emissions from ground-based engine testing have used simplified methods, which may grossly underpredict and/or overpredict the pollutant formations in a test environment. The objective of this work has been to develop a computational fluid dynamics-based methodology that replicates the underlying test-stand flow physics to accurately and efficiently assess pollutant emissions from ground-based rocket-engine testing. A nominal RD-170 engine hot-fire test was computed, and pertinent test-stand flow physics was captured. The predicted total emission rates compared reasonably well with those of the existing hydrocarbon engine hot-firing test data.

SCORE-EVET: a computer code for the multidimensional transient thermal-hydraulic analysis of nuclear fuel rod arrays. [BWR; PWR

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Benedetti, R. L.; Lords, L. V.; Kiser, D. M.

1978-02-01

The SCORE-EVET code was developed to study multidimensional transient fluid flow in nuclear reactor fuel rod arrays. The conservation equations used were derived by volume averaging the transient compressible three-dimensional local continuum equations in Cartesian coordinates. No assumptions associated with subchannel flow have been incorporated into the derivation of the conservation equations. In addition to the three-dimensional fluid flow equations, the SCORE-EVET code ocntains: (a) a one-dimensional steady state solution scheme to initialize the flow field, (b) steady state and transient fuel rod conduction models, and (c) comprehensive correlation packages to describe fluid-to-fuel rod interfacial energy and momentum exchange. Velocitymore » and pressure boundary conditions can be specified as a function of time and space to model reactor transient conditions such as a hypothesized loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) or flow blockage.« less

Fuel injection assembly for use in turbine engines and method of assembling same

DOEpatents

Uhm, Jong Ho; Johnson, Thomas Edward

2015-03-24

A fuel injection assembly for use in a turbine engine is provided. The fuel injection assembly includes a plurality of tube assemblies, wherein each of the tube assemblies includes an upstream portion and a downstream portion. Each tube assembly includes a plurality of tubes that extend from the upstream portion to the downstream portion or from the upstream portion through the downstream portion. At least one injection system is coupled to at least one tube assembly of the plurality of tube assemblies. The injection system includes a fluid supply member that extends from a fluid source to the downstream portion of the tube assembly. The fluid supply member includes a first end portion located in the downstream portion of the tube assembly, wherein the first end portion has at least one first opening for channeling fluid through the tube assembly to facilitate reducing a temperature therein.

Formulation of an RP-1 Pyrolysis Surrogate from Shock Tube Measurements of Fuel and Ethylene Time Histories

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-01

They also provide modelers (in both kinetics and computational fluid dynamics) with a method of representing, during simulation, a fuel that may have...1 and RP-2 from [Huber 2009a] Composition, mole fraction Fluid RP-1 surrogate RP-2 surrogate -methyldecalin 0.354 0.354 5-methylnonane 0.150...modeling and experimental results. Experimental Thermal and Fluid Science, 28(7):701–708, 2004. L. F. Albright, B. L. Crynes, and W. H. Corcoran

Cryogenic Fluid Management Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eberhardt, R. N.; Bailey, W. J.; Symons, E. P.; Kroeger, E. W.

1984-01-01

The Cryogenic Fluid Management Facility (CFMF) is a reusable test bed which is designed to be carried into space in the Shuttle cargo bay to investigate systems and technologies required to efficiently and effectively manage cryogens in space. The facility hardware is configured to provide low-g verification of fluid and thermal models of cryogenic storage, transfer concepts and processes. Significant design data and criteria for future subcritical cryogenic storage and transfer systems will be obtained. Future applications include space-based and ground-based orbit transfer vehicles (OTV), space station life support, attitude control, power and fuel depot supply, resupply tankers, external tank (ET) propellant scavenging, space-based weapon systems and space-based orbit maneuvering vehicles (OMV). This paper describes the facility and discusses the cryogenic fluid management technology to be investigated. A brief discussion of the integration issues involved in loading and transporting liquid hydrogen within the Shuttle cargo bay is also included.

System for injecting fuel in a gas turbine combustor

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Berry, Jonathan Dwight

A combustion system uses a fuel nozzle with an inner wall having a fuel inlet in fluid communication with a fuel outlet in a fuel cartridge. The inner wall defines a mounting location for inserting the fuel cartridge. A pair of annular lip seals around the cartridge outer wall on both sides of the fuel outlet seals the fuel passage between the fuel inlet and the fuel outlet.

LADEE Propulsion System Cold Flow Test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Jonathan Hunter; Chapman, Jack M.; Trinh, Hau, P.; Bell, James H.

2013-01-01

Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) is a NASA mission that will orbit the Moon. Its main objective is to characterize the atmosphere and lunar dust environment. The spacecraft development is being led by NASA Ames Research Center and scheduled for launch in 2013. The LADEE spacecraft will be operated with a bi-propellant hypergolic propulsion system using MMH and NTO as the fuel and oxidizer, respectively. The propulsion system utilizes flight-proven hardware on major components. The propulsion layout is composed of one 100-lbf main thruster and four 5-lbf RCS thrusters. The propellants are stored in four tanks (two parallel-connected tanks per propellant component). The propellants will be pressurized by regulated helium. A simulated propulsion system has been built for conducting cold flow test series to characterize the transient fluid flow of the propulsion system feed lines and to verify the critical operation modes, such as system priming, waterhammer, and crucial mission duty cycles. Propellant drainage differential between propellant tanks will also be assessed. Since the oxidizer feed line system has a higher flow demand than the fuel system does, the cold flow test focuses on the oxidizer system. The objective of the cold flow test is to simulate the LADEE propulsion fluid flow operation through water cold flow test and to obtain data for anchoring analytical models. The models will be used to predict the transient and steady state flow behaviors in the actual flight operations. The test activities, including the simulated propulsion test article, cold flow test, and analytical modeling, are being performed at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. At the time of the abstract submission, the test article checkout is being performed. The test series will be completed by November, 2012

Cryogenic Fluid Management Facility

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eberhardt, R. N.; Bailey, W. J.

1985-01-01

The Cryogenic Fluid Management Facility is a reusable test bed which is designed to be carried within the Shuttle cargo bay to investigate the systems and technologies associated with the efficient management of cryogens in space. Cryogenic fluid management consists of the systems and technologies for: (1) liquid storage and supply, including capillary acquisition/expulsion systems which provide single-phase liquid to the user system, (2) both passive and active thermal control systems, and (3) fluid transfer/resupply systems, including transfer lines and receiver tanks. The facility contains a storage and supply tank, a transfer line and a receiver tank, configured to provide low-g verification of fluid and thermal models of cryogenic storage and transfer processes. The facility will provide design data and criteria for future subcritical cryogenic storage and transfer system applications, such as Space Station life support, attitude control, power and fuel depot supply, resupply tankers, external tank (ET) propellant scavenging, and ground-based and space-based orbit transfer vehicles (OTV).

Project Themis Supercritical Cold Flow Facility, Experiment Design and Modeling for the Study of Fluid Mixing

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

AFRL facility was well suited for the Themis cold flow experiment. A test cell was selected that contained an insulated cryogenic oxygen tank that...could be used for the LN2 supply. Adjacent to the test cell is a cryogenic storage bunker that contained a helium supply tank with existing high...venturi to the fuel bunker tank was very low (less than 25 psi) while the helium pressure drop from the cryogenic storage bunker was almost 2000 psi

Dual-Mode Combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goyne, Christopher P.; McDaniel, James C.

2002-01-01

The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Virginia has conducted an investigation of the mixing and combustion processes in a hydrogen fueled dual-mode scramjet combustor. The experiment essentially consisted of the "direct connect" continuous operation of a Mach 2 rectangular combustor with a single unswept ramp fuel injector. The stagnation enthalpy of the test flow simulated a flight Mach number of 5. Measurements were obtained using conventional wall instrumentation and laser based diagnostics. These diagnostics included, pressure and wall temperature measurements, Fuel Plume Imaging (FPI) and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV). A schematic of the combustor configuration and a summary of the measurements obtained are presented. The experimental work at UVa was parallel by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) work at NASA Langley. The numerical and experiment results are compared in this document.

Advanced Fuel Development and Fuel Combustion

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-08-01

development of supercritical fluid extraction techniques for gums and deposits; 5) generation of homogeneous, liquid phase kinetic data on the consumption...Gas Chromatography 12 TASK NO. 09: Assessment of the Friction Characteristics and Scuffing Potential of a Helicopter Transmission Lubricant...stations can easily be contaminated by personnel improperly disposing of other materials such as mineral oil lubricants, silicone oils, hydraulic fluids

Deleterious Thermal Effects due to Randomized Flow Paths in Pebble Bed, and Particle Bed Style Reactors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Robert P.

2013-01-01

Reactor fuel rod surface area that is perpendicular to coolant flow direction (+S) i.e. perpendicular to the P creates areas of coolant stagnation leading to increased coolant temperatures resulting in localized changes in fluid properties. Changes in coolant fluid properties caused by minor increases in temperature lead to localized reductions in coolant mass flow rates leading to localized thermal instabilities. Reductions in coolant mass flow rates result in further increases in local temperatures exacerbating changes to coolant fluid properties leading to localized thermal runaway. Unchecked localized thermal runaway leads to localized fuel melting. Reactor designs with randomized flow paths are vulnerable to localized thermal instabilities, localized thermal runaway, and localized fuel melting.

Thermofluid Modeling of Fuel Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, John B.

2007-01-01

Fuel cells offer the prospect of silent electrical power generation at high efficiency with near-zero pollutant emission. Many materials and fabrication problems have now been solved and attention has shifted toward system modeling, including the fluid flows that supply the cells with hydrogen and oxygen. This review describes the current thermofluid modeling capabilities for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), the most promising candidates for commercial exploitation. Topics covered include basic operating principles and stack design, convective-diffusive flow in porous solids, special modeling issues for PEMFCs and SOFCs, and the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods.

Methods of producing transportation fuel

DOEpatents

Nair, Vijay [Katy, TX; Roes, Augustinus Wilhelmus Maria [Houston, TX; Cherrillo, Ralph Anthony [Houston, TX; Bauldreay, Joanna M [Chester, GB

2011-12-27

Systems, methods, and heaters for treating a subsurface formation are described herein. At least one method for producing transportation fuel is described herein. The method for producing transportation fuel may include providing formation fluid having a boiling range distribution between -5.degree. C. and 350.degree. C. from a subsurface in situ heat treatment process to a subsurface treatment facility. A liquid stream may be separated from the formation fluid. The separated liquid stream may be hydrotreated and then distilled to produce a distilled stream having a boiling range distribution between 150.degree. C. and 350.degree. C. The distilled liquid stream may be combined with one or more additives to produce transportation fuel.

The effects of aircraft fuel and fluids on the strength properties of Resin Transfer Molded (RTM) composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Falcone, Anthony; Dow, Marvin B.

1993-01-01

The resin transfer molding (RTM) process offers important advantages for cost-effective composites manufacturing, and consequently has become the subject of intense research and development efforts. Several new matrix resins have been formulated specifically for RTM applications in aircraft and aerospace vehicles. For successful use on aircraft, composite materials must withstand exposure to the fluids in common use. The present study was conducted to obtain comparative screening data on several state-ofthe-art RTM resins after environmental exposures were performed on RTM composite specimens. Four graphite/epoxy composites and one graphite/bismaleimide composite were tested; testing of two additional graphite epoxy composites is in progress. Zero-deg tension tests were conducted on specimens machined from eight-ply (+45-deg, -45-deg) laminates, and interlaminar shear tests were conducted on 32-ply 0-deg laminate specimens. In these tests, the various RTM resins demonstrated widely different strengths, with 3501-6 epoxy being the strongest. As expected, all of the matrix resins suffered severe strength degradation from exposure to methylene chloride (paint stripper). The 3501-6 epoxy composites exhibited about a 30 percent drop in tensile strength in hot, wet tests. The E905-L epoxy exhibited little loss of tensile strength (less than 8 percent) after exposure to water. The CET-2 and 862 epoxies as well as the bismaleimide exhibited reduced strengths at elevated temperature after exposure to oils and fuel. In terms of the percentage strength reductions, all of the RTM matrix resins compared favorably with 3501-6 epoxy.

Piezoelectric axial flow microvalve

DOEpatents

Gemmen, Randall; Thornton, Jimmy; Vipperman, Jeffrey S.; Clark, William W.

2007-01-09

This invention is directed to a fuel cell operable with a quantity of fuel and a quantity of an oxidizer to produce electrical power, the fuel cell including a fuel cell body including a labyrinth system structured to permit the fuel and the oxidizer to flow therethrough; at least a first catalyst in fluid communication with the labyrinth; and at least a first microvalve operably disposed within at least a portion of the labyrinth. The microvalve utilizes a deflectable member operable upon the application of a voltage from a voltage source. The microvalve includes an elongated flow channel formed therein and extending substantially longitudinally between the first and second ends to permit substantially longitudinal flow of the fluid therethrough and between the first and second ends; and the deflectable member disposed on the valve body, the deflectable member including at least a first piezoelectric portion that is piezoelectrically operable to deflect the deflectable member between an open position and a closed position upon the application of a voltage, the deflectable member in the closed position being operable to resist the flow of the fluid through the flow channel.

Estimating Energy Consumption of Mobile Fluid Power in the United States

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lynch, Lauren; Zigler, Bradley T.

This report estimates the market size and energy consumption of mobile off-road applications utilizing hydraulic fluid power, and summarizes technology gaps and implementation barriers. Mobile fluid power is the use of hydraulic fluids under pressure to transmit power in mobile equipment applications. The mobile off-road fluid power sector includes various uses of hydraulic fluid power equipment with fundamentally diverse end-use application and operational requirements, such as a skid steer loader, a wheel loader or an agriculture tractor. The agriculture and construction segments dominate the mobile off-road fluid power market in component unit sales volume. An estimated range of energy consumedmore » by the mobile off-road fluid power sector is 0.36 - 1.8 quads per year, which was 1.3 percent - 6.5 percent of the total energy consumed in 2016 by the transportation sector. Opportunities for efficiency improvements within the fluid power system result from needs to level and reduce the peak system load requirements and develop new technologies to reduce fluid power system level losses, both of which may be facilitated by characterizing duty cycles to define standardized performance test methods. There are currently no commonly accepted standardized test methods for evaluating equipment level efficiency over a duty cycle. The off-road transportation sector currently meets criteria emissions requirements, and there are no efficiency regulations requiring original equipment manufacturers (OEM) to invest in new architecture development to improve the fuel economy of mobile off-road fluid power systems. In addition, the end-user efficiency interests are outweighed by low equipment purchase or lease price concerns, required payback periods, and reliability and durability requirements of new architecture. Current economics, low market volumes with high product diversity, and regulation compliance challenge OEM investment in commercialization of new architecture development.« less

Experimental and Computational Study of Trapped Vortex Combustor Sector Rig With Tri-Pass Diffuser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hendricks, R. C.; Shouse, D. T.; Roquernore, W. M.; Burrus, D. L.; Duncan, B. S.; Ryder, R. C.; Brankovic, A.; Liu, N.-S.; Gallagher, J. R.; Hendricks, J. A.

2004-01-01

The Trapped Vortex Combustor (TVC) potentially offers numerous operational advantages over current production gas turbine engine combustors. These include lower weight, lower pollutant emissions, effective flame stabilization, high combustion efficiency, excellent high altitude relight capability, and operation in the lean burn or RQL modes of combustion. The present work describes the operational principles of the TVC, and extends diffuser velocities toward choked flow and provides system performance data. Performance data include EINOx results for various fuel-air ratios and combustor residence times, combustion efficiency as a function of combustor residence time, and combustor lean blow-out (LBO) performance. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using liquid spray droplet evaporation and combustion modeling are performed and related to flow structures observed in photographs of the combustor. The CFD results are used to understand the aerodynamics and combustion features under different fueling conditions. Performance data acquired to date are favorable compared to conventional gas turbine combustors. Further testing over a wider range of fuel-air ratios, fuel flow splits, and pressure ratios is in progress to explore the TVC performance. In addition, alternate configurations for the upstream pressure feed, including bi-pass diffusion schemes, as well as variations on the fuel injection patterns, are currently in test and evaluation phases.

Experimental study of the thermal stability of hydrocarbon fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marteney, P. J.; Colket, M. B.; Vranos, A.

1982-01-01

The thermal stability of two hydrocarbon fuels (premium diesel and regular diesel) was determined in a flow reactor under conditions representing operation of an aircraft gas turbine engine. Temperature was varied from 300 to 750 F (422 to 672 K) for fuel flows of 2.84 to 56.8 liters/hr (corresponding to 6.84 x 0.00010 to 1.63 x 0.010 kg/sec for regular diesel fuel and 6.55 x 0.00010 to 1.37 x 0.010 kg/sec for premium diesel fuel); test times varied between 1 and 8 hr. The rate of deposition was obtained through measurement of weight gained by metal discs fixed along the channel wall. The rate of deposit formation is best correlated by an Arrhenius expression. The sample discs in the flow reactor were varied among stainless steel, aluminum and brass; fuels were doped with quinoline, indole, and benzoyl perioxide to yield nitrogen or oxygen concentrations of approximately 1000 ppm. The most substantial change in rate was an increase in deposits for brass discs; other disc materials or the additives caused only small perturbations. Tests were also conducted in a static reactor at temperatures of 300 to 800 F for times of 30 min to 2 1/2 hr. Much smaller deposition was found, indicating the importance of fluid transport in the mechanism.

Fluids, Lubrication, Fuels and Related Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-06-01

cleaning procedure, was not severe enough in these studies ro remove all of the varnish and corrosive products. The majority of the deposits were...III). In static corrosion tests the phenothiazine becomes involved in the forma- tion of metal corrosion products which in turn form a varnish ...the oxidation reaction. The metal corrosion products also appear to promote the formation of oil insoluble sludge and varnish . It has been

A simplified computational fluid-dynamic approach to the oxidizer injector design in hybrid rockets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Martino, Giuseppe D.; Malgieri, Paolo; Carmicino, Carmine; Savino, Raffaele

2016-12-01

Fuel regression rate in hybrid rockets is non-negligibly affected by the oxidizer injection pattern. In this paper a simplified computational approach developed in an attempt to optimize the oxidizer injector design is discussed. Numerical simulations of the thermo-fluid-dynamic field in a hybrid rocket are carried out, with a commercial solver, to investigate into several injection configurations with the aim of increasing the fuel regression rate and minimizing the consumption unevenness, but still favoring the establishment of flow recirculation at the motor head end, which is generated with an axial nozzle injector and has been demonstrated to promote combustion stability, and both larger efficiency and regression rate. All the computations have been performed on the configuration of a lab-scale hybrid rocket motor available at the propulsion laboratory of the University of Naples with typical operating conditions. After a preliminary comparison between the two baseline limiting cases of an axial subsonic nozzle injector and a uniform injection through the prechamber, a parametric analysis has been carried out by varying the oxidizer jet flow divergence angle, as well as the grain port diameter and the oxidizer mass flux to study the effect of the flow divergence on heat transfer distribution over the fuel surface. Some experimental firing test data are presented, and, under the hypothesis that fuel regression rate and surface heat flux are proportional, the measured fuel consumption axial profiles are compared with the predicted surface heat flux showing fairly good agreement, which allowed validating the employed design approach. Finally an optimized injector design is proposed.

3-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Using Different Fuels

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

major types of fuel cells in practice are listed below: Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell ( PEMFC ) Alkaline Fuel cell (AFC) Phosphoric Acid...Material Operating Temperature (oC) Efficiency (%) PEMFC H2, Methanol, Formic Acid Hydrated Organic Polymer < 90 40-50 AFC Pure H2 Aqueous

Multipoint Fuel Injection Arrangements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prociw, Lev Alexander (Inventor)

2017-01-01

A multipoint fuel injection system includes a plurality of fuel manifolds. Each manifold is in fluid communication with a plurality of injectors arranged circumferentially about a longitudinal axis for multipoint fuel injection. The injectors of separate respective manifolds are spaced radially apart from one another for separate radial staging of fuel flow to each respective manifold.

Preliminary analysis of compound systems based on high temperature fuel cell, gas turbine and Organic Rankine Cycle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sánchez, D.; Muñoz de Escalona, J. M.; Monje, B.; Chacartegui, R.; Sánchez, T.

This article presents a novel proposal for complex hybrid systems comprising high temperature fuel cells and thermal engines. In this case, the system is composed by a molten carbonate fuel cell with cascaded hot air turbine and Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC), a layout that is based on subsequent waste heat recovery for additional power production. The work will credit that it is possible to achieve 60% efficiency even if the fuel cell operates at atmospheric pressure. The first part of the analysis focuses on selecting the working fluid of the Organic Rankine Cycle. After a thermodynamic optimisation, toluene turns out to be the most efficient fluid in terms of cycle performance. However, it is also detected that the performance of the heat recovery vapour generator is equally important, what makes R245fa be the most interesting fluid due to its balanced thermal and HRVG efficiencies that yield the highest global bottoming cycle efficiency. When this fluid is employed in the compound system, conservative operating conditions permit achieving 60% global system efficiency, therefore accomplishing the initial objective set up in the work. A simultaneous optimisation of gas turbine (pressure ratio) and ORC (live vapour pressure) is then presented, to check if the previous results are improved or if the fluid of choice must be replaced. Eventually, even if system performance improves for some fluids, it is concluded that (i) R245fa is the most efficient fluid and (ii) the operating conditions considered in the previous analysis are still valid. The work concludes with an assessment about safety-related aspects of using hydrocarbons in the system. Flammability is studied, showing that R245fa is the most interesting fluid also in this regard due to its inert behaviour, as opposed to the other fluids under consideration all of which are highly flammable.

Selected technology for the gas industry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

A number of papers were presented at a conference concerned with the application of technical topics from aerospace activities for the gas industry. The following subjects were covered: general future of fossil fuels in America, exploration for fossil and nuclear fuels from orbital altitudes, technology for liquefied gas, safety considerations relative to fires, explosions, and detonations, gas turbomachinery technology, fluid properties, fluid flow, and heat transfer, NASA information and documentation systems, instrumentation and measurement, materials and life prediction, reliability and quality assurance, and advanced energy systems (including synthetic fuels, energy storage, solar energy, and wind energy).

Reducing mode circulating fluid bed combustion

DOEpatents

Lin, Yung-Yi; Sadhukhan, Pasupati; Fraley, Lowell D.; Hsiao, Keh-Hsien

1986-01-01

A method for combustion of sulfur-containing fuel in a circulating fluid bed combustion system wherein the fuel is burned in a primary combustion zone under reducing conditions and sulfur captured as alkaline sulfide. The reducing gas formed is oxidized to combustion gas which is then separated from solids containing alkaline sulfide. The separated solids are then oxidized and recycled to the primary combustion zone.

Predicting the weathering of fuel and oil spills: A diffusion-limited evaporation model.

PubMed

Kotzakoulakis, Konstantinos; George, Simon C

2018-01-01

The majority of the evaporation models currently available in the literature for the prediction of oil spill weathering do not take into account diffusion-limited mass transport and the formation of a concentration gradient in the oil phase. The altered surface concentration of the spill caused by diffusion-limited transport leads to a slower evaporation rate compared to the predictions of diffusion-agnostic evaporation models. The model presented in this study incorporates a diffusive layer in the oil phase and predicts the diffusion-limited evaporation rate. The information required is the composition of the fluid from gas chromatography or alternatively the distillation data. If the density or a single viscosity measurement is available the accuracy of the predictions is higher. Environmental conditions such as water temperature, air pressure and wind velocity are taken into account. The model was tested with synthetic mixtures, petroleum fuels and crude oils with initial viscosities ranging from 2 to 13,000 cSt. The tested temperatures varied from 0 °C to 23.4 °C and wind velocities from 0.3 to 3.8 m/s. The average absolute deviation (AAD) of the diffusion-limited model ranged between 1.62% and 24.87%. In comparison, the AAD of a diffusion-agnostic model ranged between 2.34% and 136.62% against the same tested fluids. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of gaseous nuclear rocket technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kendall, J. S.

1972-01-01

The experimental and theoretical investigations conducted during the period from September 1969 through September 1972 are reported which were directed toward obtaining information necessary to determine the feasibility of the full-scale nuclear light bulb engine, and of small-scale nuclear tests involving fissioning uranium plasmas in a unit cell installed in a driver reactor, such as the Nuclear Furnace. Emphasis was placed on development of RF simulations of conditions expected in nuclear tests in the Nuclear Furnace. The work included investigations of the following: (1) the fluid mechanics and containment characteristics of one-component and two-component vortex flows, both unheated and RF-induction heated; (2) heating of particle-seeded streams by thermal radiation from a dc arc to simulate propellant heating; (3) condensation and separation phenomena for metal-vapor/heated-gas mixtures to provide information for conceptual designs of components of fuel exhaust and recycle systems; (4) the characteristics of the radiant energy spectrum emitted from the fuel region, with emphasis on definition of fuel and buffer-gas region seed systems to reduce the ultraviolet radiation emitted from the nuclear fuel; and (5) the effects of nuclear radiation on the optical transmission characteristics of transparent materials.

Measurement of diffusion in fluid systems: Applications to the supercritical fluid region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruno, Thomas J.

1994-04-01

The experimental procedures that are applicable to the measurement of diffusion in supercritical fluid solutions are reviewed. This topic is of great importance to the proper design of advanced aircraft and turbine fuels, since the fuels on these aircraft may sometimes operate under supercritical fluid conditions. More specifically, we will consider measurements of the binary interaction diffusion coefficient D exp 12 of a solute (species 1) and the solvent (species 2). In this discussion, the supercritical fluid is species 2, and the solute, species 1, will be at a relatively low concentration, sometimes approaching infinite dilution. After a brief introduction to the concept of diffusion, we will discuss in detail the use of chromatographic methods, and then briefly treat light scattering, nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, and physical methods.

Supercritical Fluids Processing of Biomass to Chemicals and Fuels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Olson, Norman K.

2011-09-28

The main objective of this project is to develop and/or enhance cost-effective methodologies for converting biomass into a wide variety of chemicals, fuels, and products using supercritical fluids. Supercritical fluids will be used both to perform reactions of biomass to chemicals and products as well as to perform extractions/separations of bio-based chemicals from non-homogeneous mixtures. This work supports the Biomass Program’s Thermochemical Platform Goals. Supercritical fluids are a thermochemical approach to processing biomass that, while aligned with the Biomass Program’s interests in gasification and pyrolysis, offer the potential for more precise and controllable reactions. Indeed, the literature with respect tomore » the use of water as a supercritical fluid frequently refers to “supercritical water gasification” or “supercritical water pyrolysis.”« less

Molten salt destruction of energetic waste materials

DOEpatents

Brummond, W.A.; Upadhye, R.S.; Pruneda, C.O.

1995-07-18

A molten salt destruction process is used to treat and destroy energetic waste materials such as high explosives, propellants, and rocket fuels. The energetic material is pre-blended with a solid or fluid diluent in safe proportions to form a fluid fuel mixture. The fuel mixture is rapidly introduced into a high temperature molten salt bath. A stream of molten salt is removed from the vessel and may be recycled as diluent. Additionally, the molten salt stream may be pumped from the reactor, circulated outside the reactor for further processing, and delivered back into the reactor or cooled and circulated to the feed delivery system to further dilute the fuel mixture entering the reactor. 4 figs.

Molten salt destruction of energetic waste materials

DOEpatents

Brummond, William A.; Upadhye, Ravindra S.; Pruneda, Cesar O.

1995-01-01

A molten salt destruction process is used to treat and destroy energetic waste materials such as high explosives, propellants, and rocket fuels. The energetic material is pre-blended with a solid or fluid diluent in safe proportions to form a fluid fuel mixture. The fuel mixture is rapidly introduced into a high temperature molten salt bath. A stream of molten salt is removed from the vessel and may be recycled as diluent. Additionally, the molten salt stream may be pumped from the reactor, circulated outside the reactor for further processing, and delivered back into the reactor or cooled and circulated to the feed delivery system to further dilute the fuel mixture entering the reactor.

Fuel injection of coal slurry using vortex nozzles and valves

DOEpatents

Holmes, Allen B.

1989-01-01

Injection of atomized coal slurry fuel into an engine combustion chamber is achieved at relatively low pressures by means of a vortex swirl nozzle. The outlet opening of the vortex nozzle is considerably larger than conventional nozzle outlets, thereby eliminating major sources of failure due to clogging by contaminants in the fuel. Control fluid, such as air, may be used to impart vorticity to the slurry and/or purge the nozzle of contaminants during the times between measured slurry charges. The measured slurry charges may be produced by a diaphragm pump or by vortex valves controlled by a separate control fluid. Fluidic circuitry, employing vortex valves to alternatively block and pass cool slurry fuel flow, is disclosed.

Emissions Prediction and Measurement for Liquid-Fueled TVC Combustor with and without Water Injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brankovic, A.; Ryder, R. C., Jr.; Hendricks, R. C.; Liu, N.-S.; Shouse, D. T.; Roquemore, W. M.

2005-01-01

An investigation is performed to evaluate the performance of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool for the prediction of the reacting flow in a liquid-fueled combustor that uses water injection for control of pollutant emissions. The experiment consists of a multisector, liquid-fueled combustor rig operated at different inlet pressures and temperatures, and over a range of fuel/air and water/fuel ratios. Fuel can be injected directly into the main combustion airstream and into the cavities. Test rig performance is characterized by combustor exit quantities such as temperature and emissions measurements using rakes and overall pressure drop from upstream plenum to combustor exit. Visualization of the flame is performed using gray scale and color still photographs and high-frame-rate videos. CFD simulations are performed utilizing a methodology that includes computer-aided design (CAD) solid modeling of the geometry, parallel processing over networked computers, and graphical and quantitative post-processing. Physical models include liquid fuel droplet dynamics and evaporation, with combustion modeled using a hybrid finite-rate chemistry model developed for Jet-A fuel. CFD and experimental results are compared for cases with cavity-only fueling, while numerical studies of cavity and main fueling was also performed. Predicted and measured trends in combustor exit temperature, CO and NOx are in general agreement at the different water/fuel loading rates, although quantitative differences exist between the predictions and measurements.

JACKETED URANIUM SLUG

DOEpatents

Ohlinger, L.A.; Cooper, C.M.

1958-10-01

Fuel elements for nuclear reactors are described. Eacb fuel element is comprised of a solid cylindrical slug containing fissionable material enclosed within a fluid tight jacket of neutron permeable material such as aluminum. The jacket is provided with a flexible end cap and with a sealing member having a substantially fluid-tight fit within the jacket in tight abutment with the end cap and the end of the slug. A fluid passage is provided between the end of the slug and the cap whereby leakage fiuid is principally directed to the end of the slug. In this manner, any reaction between the fissionable material and fiuid which may take place occurs more rapidly at the end of the slug than along the sides between the slug and the jacket, thereby causing longitudinal expansion of the fuel element prior to radial expansion. The longitudinal expansion can be readily detected and the fuel element removed from the coolant tube before radial expansion causes it to become jammed in the tube.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Means, Gregory Scott; Boardman, Gregory Allen; Berry, Jonathan Dwight

A combustor for a gas turbine generally includes a radial flow fuel nozzle having a fuel distribution manifold, and a fuel injection manifold axially separated from the fuel distribution manifold. The fuel injection manifold generally includes an inner side portion, an outer side portion, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced fuel ports that extend through the outer side portion. A plurality of tubes provides axial separation between the fuel distribution manifold and the fuel injection manifold. Each tube defines a fluid communication path between the fuel distribution manifold and the fuel injection manifold.

Experimental Altitude Performance of JP-4 Fuel and Liquid-Oxygen Rocket Engine with an Area Ratio of 48

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fortini, Anthony; Hendrix, Charles D.; Huff, Vearl N.

1959-01-01

The performance for four altitudes (sea-level, 51,000, 65,000, and 70,000 ft) of a rocket engine having a nozzle area ratio of 48.39 and using JP-4 fuel and liquid oxygen as a propellant was evaluated experimentally by use of a 1000-pound-thrust engine operating at a chamber pressure of 600 pounds per square inch absolute. The altitude environment was obtained by a rocket-ejector system which utilized the rocket exhaust gases as the pumping fluid of the ejector. Also, an engine having a nozzle area ratio of 5.49 designed for sea level was tested at sea-level conditions. The following table lists values from faired experimental curves at an oxidant-fuel ratio of 2.3 for various approximate altitudes.

40 CFR 1065.1010 - Reference materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... for Aviation Turbine Fuels, IBR approved for § 1065.701. (10) ASTM D1837-02a (Reapproved 2007...), IBR approved for § 1065.720. (19) ASTM D2880-03, Standard Specification for Gas Turbine Fuel Oils, IBR... Fuels and Aviation Turbine Fuels By Supercritical Fluid Chromatography, IBR approved for § 1065.703. (26...

40 CFR 1065.1010 - Reference materials.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... for Aviation Turbine Fuels, IBR approved for § 1065.701. (10) ASTM D1837-02a (Reapproved 2007...), IBR approved for § 1065.720. (19) ASTM D2880-03, Standard Specification for Gas Turbine Fuel Oils, IBR... Fuels and Aviation Turbine Fuels By Supercritical Fluid Chromatography, IBR approved for § 1065.703. (26...

Reconnaissance Report, Washoe Valley at Elko, Nevada

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-10-01

material. This formation contains oil shale, claystone, siltstone, some limestone and tuff and Eocene in age. There is a restricted outcrop of the...is spills of petroleum products associated with construction equipment. Diesel fuel, hydraulic fluids, gasoline, and oils that enter the river could...fish habitat. Diesel fuel, hydraulic fluids, gasoline, and oils or oil -based chemicals that enter the interior drainage system or river may cause

Dynamically Stable Legged Locomotion

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-09-01

length during overground locomotion: task-specific modulation of the locomotor synergy. Journal of Experimental Psychology, 15(3). Raibert, M. I. 1986...energy conversions that intermediates between combus- tion of a fluid fuel such as gasoline , and the controlled delivery of force and power to the...question of this study: Can the extremely high energy density and rapid response of combustible fluid fuels such as gasoline be harnessed to produce

Unsteady Flow Interactions Between the LH2 Feed Line and SSME LPFP Inducer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorney, Dan; Griffin, Lisa; Marcu, Bogdan; Williams, Morgan

2006-01-01

An extensive computational effort has been performed in order to investigate the nature of unsteady flow in the fuel line supplying the three Space Shuttle Main Engines during flight. Evidence of high cycle fatigue (HCF) in the flow liner one diameter upstream of the Low Pressure Fuel Pump inducer has been observed in several locations. The analysis presented in this report has the objective of determining the driving mechanisms inducing HCF and the associated fluid flow phenomena. The simulations have been performed using two different computational codes, the NASA MSFC PHANTOM code and the Pratt and Whitney Rocketdyne ENIGMA code. The fuel flow through the flow liner and the pump inducer have been modeled in full three-dimensional geometry, and the results of the computations compared with test data taken during hot fire tests at NASA Stennis Space Center, and cold-flow water flow test data obtained at NASA MSFC. The numerical results indicate that unsteady pressure fluctuations at specific frequencies develop in the duct at the flow-liner location. Detailed frequency analysis of the flow disturbances is presented. The unsteadiness is believed to be an important source for fluctuating pressures generating high cycle fatigue.

FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS, FUELS AND RELATED MATERIALS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Klaus, E.E.; Fenske, M.R.; Tewksbury, E.J.

1961-01-01

Work was carried out on a continuing program to characterize the capabilities of hydraulic fluids, lubricants, and functional fluids for aeronautic and astronautic applications under extreme environmental conditions. The effects of solvent type and solvent to oil ratio on the deep dewaxing process are shown. The yield and viscosity-temperature properties of the deep dewaxed oil are related to the type and degree of refining of the mineral oil fraction. The preparation of large volumes of super-refined mineral oil formulations for ""mock-up'' testing is reponted. Extensive technical liaison on processing, properties, and application is discussed. Physical and chemical stability of basemore » stocks, additives, and finished hydraulic fluid and lubricant formulations after 5 to 17 years in storage is described. A sample of hydraulic fluid taken from the "Lady Be Good" B-25 Bomber after 16 years in the North African desert is discussed. The design, construction, and preliminary testing of a versatile capillary pressure viscometer is reported. The use of this viscometer to measure the effect of gas solubility on viscosity and the analysis of flow profile in a capillary viscometer are discussed. The use of the pressure unit with a modified Lipkin pycnometer for the measure of bulk modulus is suggested. The thermal stability of esters is contrasted and compared as a function of chemical structure. Quantitative evaluations of the gas produced and the liquid phase are used to illustrate the effect of metal catalysts. The effects of fluid type, viscosity, vapor pressure, oxidation mechanism, oxidation inhibitor, and gaseous environment on evaporation are presented. The use of evaporation tests in studying the mechanism of oxidation is suggested. The relative lubricity properties of a series of high-temperature-bearing materials are reported. The relative effects of fluid volatility on lubricity are discussed. The similarities between high-temperature and the lowtemperatare lubricity properties of the residual fluids after high-temperature oxidation and thermal tests are pointed out. The wear properties of mineral oils and esters with and without lubricity additives are compared and contrasted with silicons and silicate fluids at 167 to 700 deg F. A simple, versatile, quantitative oxidation test is described for use with a variety of high-temperature oxidation tests. (auth)« less

Optical Characterization of a Multipoint Lean Direct Injector for Gas Turbine Combustors: Velocity and Fuel Drop Size Measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heath, Christopher M.; Anderson, Robert C.; Locke, Randy J.; Hicks, Yolanda R.

2010-01-01

Performance of a multipoint, lean direct injection (MP-LDI) strategy for low emission aero-propulsion systems has been tested in a Jet-A fueled, lean flame tube combustion rig. Operating conditions for the series of tests included inlet air temperatures between 672 and 828 K, pressures between 1034 and 1379 kPa and total equivalence ratios between 0.41 and 0.45, resulting in equilibrium flame temperatures approaching 1800 K. Ranges of operation were selected to represent the spectrum of subsonic and supersonic flight conditions projected for the next-generation of commercial aircraft. This document reports laser-based measurements of in situ fuel velocities and fuel drop sizes for the NASA 9-point LDI hardware arranged in a 3 3 square grid configuration. Data obtained represent a region of the flame tube combustor with optical access that extends 38.1-mm downstream of the fuel injection site. All data were obtained within reacting flows, without particle seeding. Two diagnostic methods were employed to evaluate the resulting flow path. Three-component velocity fields have been captured using phase Doppler interferometry (PDI), and two-component velocity distributions using planar particle image velocimetry (PIV). Data from these techniques have also offered insight into fuel drop size and distribution, fuel injector spray angle and pattern, turbulence intensity, degree of vaporization and extent of reaction. This research serves to characterize operation of the baseline NASA 9- point LDI strategy for potential use in future gas-turbine combustor applications. An additional motive is the compilation of a comprehensive database to facilitate understanding of combustor fuel injector aerodynamics and fuel vaporization processes, which in turn may be used to validate computational fluid dynamics codes, such as the National Combustor Code (NCC), among others.

Wavelength-Agile Optical Sensor for Exhaust Plume and Cryogenic Fluid Interrogation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanders, Scott T.; Chiaverini, Martin J.; Gramer, Daniel J.

2004-01-01

Two optical sensors developed in UW-Madison labs were evaluated for their potential to characterize rocket engine exhaust plumes and liquid oxygen (LOX) fluid properties. The plume sensor is based on wavelength-agile absorption spectroscopy A device called a chirped white pulse emitter (CWPE) is used to generate the wavelength agile light, scanning, for example, 1340 - 1560 nm every microsecond. Properties of the gases in the rocket plume (for example temperature and water mole fraction) can be monitored using these wavelength scans. We have performed preliminary tests in static gas cells, a laboratory GOX/GH2 thrust chamber, and a solid-fuel hybrid thrust chamber, and these initial tests demonstrate the potential of the CWPE for monitoring rocket plumes. The LOX sensor uses an alternative to wavelength agile sensing: two independent, fixed-wavelength lasers are combined into a single fiber. One laser is absorbed by LOX and the other not: by monitoring the differential transmission the LOX concentration in cryogenic feed lines can be inferred. The sensor was successful in interrogating static LOX pools in laboratory tests. Even in ice- and bubble-laden cryogenic fluids, LOX concentrations were measured to better than 1% with a 3 microsec time constant.

Phenylnaphthalene as a Heat Transfer Fluid for Concentrating Solar Power: High-Temperature Static Experiments

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bell, Jason R; Joseph III, Robert Anthony; McFarlane, Joanna

2012-05-01

Concentrating solar power (CSP) may be an alternative to generating electricity from fossil fuels; however, greater thermodynamic efficiency is needed to improve the economics of CSP operation. One way of achieving improved efficiency is to operate the CSP loop at higher temperatures than the current maximum of about 400 C. ORNL has been investigating a synthetic polyaromatic oil for use in a trough type CSP collector, to temperatures up to 500 C. The oil was chosen because of its thermal stability and calculated low vapor and critical pressures. The oil has been synthesized using a Suzuki coupling mechanism and hasmore » been tested in static heating experiments. Analysis has been conducted on the oil after heating and suggests that there may be some isomerization taking place at 450 C, but the fluid appears to remain stable above that temperature. Tests were conducted over one week and further tests are planned to investigate stabilities after heating for months and in flow configurations. Thermochemical data and thermophysical predictions indicate that substituted polyaromatic hydrocarbons may be useful for applications that run at higher temperatures than possible with commercial fluids such as Therminol-VP1.« less

Biomarker Discovery After Occupational Exposure To Volatile Organic Compounds And Aerosols In F-15 and C-130 Flight Line Crews: Examination of ProInflammatory Cytokines in Serum

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-29

about exposure to spills of any kind, direct dermal exposure to jet fuel or solvent or other exposures such as cleaning fluids and smoking (if a smoker ...additives, may influence toxicity during exposure. JP-8 was found to be non -irritating in the rabbit primary eye irritation test (Smith et al...1981; Kinkead et al., 1992a). Results in the corresponding rabbit skin irritation test ranged from non -irritating (Smith et al., 1981; Wolfe et al

Supercritical synthesis of biodiesel.

PubMed

Bernal, Juana M; Lozano, Pedro; García-Verdugo, Eduardo; Burguete, M Isabel; Sánchez-Gómez, Gregorio; López-López, Gregorio; Pucheault, Mathieu; Vaultier, Michel; Luis, Santiago V

2012-07-23

The synthesis of biodiesel fuel from lipids (vegetable oils and animal fats) has gained in importance as a possible source of renewable non-fossil energy in an attempt to reduce our dependence on petroleum-based fuels. The catalytic processes commonly used for the production of biodiesel fuel present a series of limitations and drawbacks, among them the high energy consumption required for complex purification operations and undesirable side reactions. Supercritical fluid (SCF) technologies offer an interesting alternative to conventional processes for preparing biodiesel. This review highlights the advances, advantages, drawbacks and new tendencies involved in the use of supercritical fluids (SCFs) for biodiesel synthesis.

System for adding sulfur to a fuel cell stack system for improved fuel cell stability

DOEpatents

Mukerjee, Subhasish [Pittsford, NY; Haltiner, Jr., Karl J; Weissman, Jeffrey G [West Henrietta, NY

2012-03-06

A system for adding sulfur to a fuel cell stack, having a reformer adapted to reform a hydrocarbon fuel stream containing sulfur contaminants, thereby providing a reformate stream having sulfur; a sulfur trap fluidly coupled downstream of the reformer for removing sulfur from the reformate stream, thereby providing a desulfurized reformate stream; and a metering device in fluid communication with the reformate stream upstream of the sulfur trap and with the desulfurized reformate stream downstream of the sulfur trap. The metering device is adapted to bypass a portion of the reformate stream to mix with the desulfurized reformate stream, thereby producing a conditioned reformate stream having a predetermined sulfur concentration that gives an acceptable balance of minimal drop in initial power with the desired maximum stability of operation over prolonged periods for the fuel cell stack.

Replacement of tritiated water from irradiated fuel storage bay

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Castillo, I.; Boniface, H.; Suppiah, S.

2015-03-15

Recently, AECL developed a novel method to reduce tritium emissions (to groundwater) and personnel doses at the NRU (National Research Universal) reactor irradiated fuel storage bay (also known as rod or spent fuel bay) through a water swap process. The light water in the fuel bay had built up tritium that had been transferred from the heavy water moderator through normal fuel transfers. The major advantage of the thermal stratification method was that a very effective tritium reduction could be achieved by swapping a minimal volume of bay water and warm tritiated water would be skimmed off the bay surface.more » A demonstration of the method was done that involved Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling of the swap process and a test program that showed excellent agreement with model prediction for the effective removal of almost all the tritium with a minimal water volume. Building on the successful demonstration, AECL fabricated, installed, commissioned and operated a full-scale system to perform a water swap. This full-scale water swap operation achieved a tritium removal efficiency of about 96%.« less

14 CFR 23.967 - Fuel tank installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

....967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not... tank liner is used, it must be supported so that it is not required to withstand fluid loads; (4... securing or loss of the fuel filler cap. (b) Each tank compartment must be ventilated and drained to...

14 CFR 23.967 - Fuel tank installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

....967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not... tank liner is used, it must be supported so that it is not required to withstand fluid loads; (4... securing or loss of the fuel filler cap. (b) Each tank compartment must be ventilated and drained to...

14 CFR 23.967 - Fuel tank installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

....967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not... tank liner is used, it must be supported so that it is not required to withstand fluid loads; (4... securing or loss of the fuel filler cap. (b) Each tank compartment must be ventilated and drained to...

14 CFR 23.967 - Fuel tank installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

....967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not... tank liner is used, it must be supported so that it is not required to withstand fluid loads; (4... securing or loss of the fuel filler cap. (b) Each tank compartment must be ventilated and drained to...

14 CFR 23.967 - Fuel tank installation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

....967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not... tank liner is used, it must be supported so that it is not required to withstand fluid loads; (4... securing or loss of the fuel filler cap. (b) Each tank compartment must be ventilated and drained to...

Experimental and Computational Study of Trapped Vortex Combustor Sector Rig with Tri-pass Diffuser

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hendricks, Robert C.; Shouse, D. T.; Roquemore, W. M.; Burrus, D. L.; Duncan, B. S.; Ryder, R. C.; Brankovic, A.; Liu, N.-S.; Gallagher, J. R.; Hendricks, J. A.

2001-01-01

The Trapped Vortex Combustor (TVC) potentially offers numerous operational advantages over current production gas turbine engine combustors. These include lower weight, lower pollutant emissions, effective flame stabilization, high combustion efficiency, excellent high altitude relight capability, and operation in the lean burn or RQL (Rich burn/Quick mix/Lean burn) modes of combustion. The present work describes the operational principles of the TVC, and provides detailed performance data on a configuration featuring a tri-pass diffusion system. Performance data include EINOx (NO(sub x) emission index) results for various fuel-air ratios and combustor residence times, combustion efficiency as a function of combustor residence time, and combustor lean blow-out (LBO) performance. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations using liquid spray droplet evaporation and combustion modeling are performed and related to flow structures observed in photographs of the combustor. The CFD results are used to understand the aerodynamics and combustion features under different fueling conditions. Performance data acquired to date are favorable in comparison to conventional gas turbine combustors. Further testing over a wider range of fuel-air ratios, fuel flow splits, and pressure ratios is in progress to explore the TVC performance. In addition, alternate configurations for the upstream pressure feed, including bi-pass diffusion schemes, as well as variations on the fuel injection patterns, are currently in test and evaluation phases.

Pressure Regulator With Internal Ejector Circulation Pump, Flow and Pressure Measurement Porting, and Fuel Cell System Integration Options

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Arturo

2011-01-01

An advanced reactant pressure regulator with an internal ejector reactant circulation pump has been developed to support NASA's future fuel cell power systems needs. These needs include reliable and safe operation in variable-gravity environments, and for exploration activities with both manned and un manned vehicles. This product was developed for use in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) power plant reactant circulation systems, but the design could also be applied to other fuel cell system types, (e.g., solid-oxide or alkaline) or for other gas pressure regulation and circulation needs. The regulator design includes porting for measurement of flow and pressure at key points in the system, and also includes several fuel cell system integration options. NASA has recognized ejectors as a viable alternative to mechanical pumps for use in spacecraft fuel cell power systems. The ejector motive force is provided by a variable, high-pressure supply gas that travels through the ejector s jet nozzle, whereby the pressure energy of the fluid stream is converted to kinetic energy in the gas jet. The ejector can produce circulation-to-consumption-flow ratios that are relatively high (2-3 times), and this phenomenon can potentially (with proper consideration of the remainder of the fuel cell system s design) be used to provide completely for reactant pre-humidification and product water removal in a fuel cell system. Specifically, a custom pressure regulator has been developed that includes: (1) an ejector reactant circulation pump (with interchangeable jet nozzles and mixer sections, gas-tight sliding and static seals in required locations, and internal fluid porting for pressure-sensing at the regulator's control elements) and (2) internal fluid porting to allow for flow rate and system pressure measurements. The fluid porting also allows for inclusion of purge, relief, and vacuum-breaker check valves on the regulator assembly. In addition, this regulator could also be used with NASA's advanced nonflow-through fuel cell power systems by simply incorporating a jet nozzle with an appropriate nozzle diameter.

Full-Scale Transport controlled Impact Demonstration

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayduk, R. J. (Compiler)

1986-01-01

The controlled impact demonstration (CID) test of a transport aircraft took place on December 1, 1984, crashing at a prepared site on Rogers Dry Lakebed, Edwards Air Force Base, California. The demonstration was a setback for the antimisting kerosene (AMK) researchers. The impact conditions, considerably different from the planned scenario, exposed large quantities of degraded AMK and hydraulic fluid and caused unexpectedly hot ignition sources, bulk loss of fuel from the right wing, airflow patterns over the wings and fuselage that were untested on AMK, and fuel intrusion into the lower fuselage. The test was much more severe than planned and is generally considered to be unrepresentative of the type of survivable crash that would benefit from AMK. Ninety-seven percent of the sensors on the fuselage and wing structure, seats, dummies, restraint systems, galley, and bins were active at impact. A wealth of sensor data was collected from this once-in-a-lifetime research test. The flight data recorder experiments on board were also generally successful.

Multi-Point Combustion System: Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goeke, Jerry; Pack, Spencer; Zink, Gregory; Ryon, Jason

2014-01-01

A low-NOx emission combustor concept has been developed for NASA's Environmentally Responsible Aircraft (ERA) program to meet N+2 emissions goals for a 70,000 lb thrust engine application. These goals include 75 percent reduction of LTO NOx from CAEP6 standards without increasing CO, UHC, or smoke from that of current state of the art. An additional key factor in this work is to improve lean combustion stability over that of previous work performed on similar technology in the early 2000s. The purpose of this paper is to present the final report for the NASA contract. This work included the design, analysis, and test of a multi-point combustion system. All design work was based on the results of Computational Fluid Dynamics modeling with the end results tested on a medium pressure combustion rig at the UC and a medium pressure combustion rig at GRC. The theories behind the designs, results of analysis, and experimental test data will be discussed in this report. The combustion system consists of five radially staged rows of injectors, where ten small scale injectors are used in place of a single traditional nozzle. Major accomplishments of the current work include the design of a Multipoint Lean Direct Injection (MLDI) array and associated air blast and pilot fuel injectors, which is expected to meet or exceed the goal of a 75 percent reduction in LTO NOx from CAEP6 standards. This design incorporates a reduced number of injectors over previous multipoint designs, simplified and lightweight components, and a very compact combustor section. Additional outcomes of the program are validation that the design of these combustion systems can be aided by the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics to predict and reduce emissions. Furthermore, the staging of fuel through the individually controlled radially staged injector rows successfully demonstrated improved low power operability as well as improvements in emissions over previous multipoint designs. Additional comparison between Jet- A fuel and a hydrotreated biofuel is made to determine viability of the technology for use with alternative fuels. Finally, the operability of the array and associated nozzles proved to be very stable without requiring additional active or passive control systems. A number of publications have been publish

Model of large pool fires.

PubMed

Fay, J A

2006-08-21

A two zone entrainment model of pool fires is proposed to depict the fluid flow and flame properties of the fire. Consisting of combustion and plume zones, it provides a consistent scheme for developing non-dimensional scaling parameters for correlating and extrapolating pool fire visible flame length, flame tilt, surface emissive power, and fuel evaporation rate. The model is extended to include grey gas thermal radiation from soot particles in the flame zone, accounting for emission and absorption in both optically thin and thick regions. A model of convective heat transfer from the combustion zone to the liquid fuel pool, and from a water substrate to cryogenic fuel pools spreading on water, provides evaporation rates for both adiabatic and non-adiabatic fires. The model is tested against field measurements of large scale pool fires, principally of LNG, and is generally in agreement with experimental values of all variables.

Coanda injection system for axially staged low emission combustors

DOEpatents

Evulet, Andrei Tristan [Clifton Park, NY; Varatharajan, Balachandar [Cincinnati, OH; Kraemer, Gilbert Otto [Greer, SC; ElKady, Ahmed Mostafa [Niskayuna, NY; Lacy, Benjamin Paul [Greer, SC

2012-05-15

The low emission combustor includes a combustor housing defining a combustion chamber having a plurality of combustion zones. A liner sleeve is disposed in the combustion housing with a gap formed between the liner sleeve and the combustor housing. A secondary nozzle is disposed along a centerline of the combustion chamber and configured to inject a first fluid comprising air, at least one diluent, fuel, or combinations thereof to a downstream side of a first combustion zone among the plurality of combustion zones. A plurality of primary fuel nozzles is disposed proximate to an upstream side of the combustion chamber and located around the secondary nozzle and configured to inject a second fluid comprising air and fuel to an upstream side of the first combustion zone. The combustor also includes a plurality of tertiary coanda nozzles. Each tertiary coanda nozzle is coupled to a respective dilution hole. The tertiary coanda nozzles are configured to inject a third fluid comprising air, at least one other diluent, fuel, or combinations thereof to one or more remaining combustion zones among the plurality of combustion zones.

Duct flow nonuniformities study for space shuttle main engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thoenes, J.

1985-01-01

To improve the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) design and for future use in the development of generation rocket engines, a combined experimental/analytical study was undertaken with the goals of first, establishing an experimental data base for the flow conditions in the SSME high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP) hot gas manifold (HGM) and, second, setting up a computer model of the SSME HGM flow field. Using the test data to verify the computer model it should be possible in the future to computationally scan contemplated advanced design configurations and limit costly testing to the most promising design. The effort of establishing and using the computer model is detailed. The comparison of computational results and experimental data observed clearly demonstrate that computational fluid mechanics (CFD) techniques can be used successfully to predict the gross features of three dimensional fluid flow through configurations as intricate as the SSME turbopump hot gas manifold.

Evaluation of HFIR LEU Fuel Using the COMSOL Multiphysics Platform

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Primm, Trent; Ruggles, Arthur; Freels, James D

2009-03-01

A finite element computational approach to simulation of the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) Core Thermal-Fluid behavior is developed. These models were developed to facilitate design of a low enriched core for the HFIR, which will have different axial and radial flux profiles from the current HEU core and thus will require fuel and poison load optimization. This report outlines a stepwise implementation of this modeling approach using the commercial finite element code, COMSOL, with initial assessment of fuel, poison and clad conduction modeling capability, followed by assessment of mating of the fuel conduction models to a one dimensional fluidmore » model typical of legacy simulation techniques for the HFIR core. The model is then extended to fully couple 2-dimensional conduction in the fuel to a 2-dimensional thermo-fluid model of the coolant for a HFIR core cooling sub-channel with additional assessment of simulation outcomes. Finally, 3-dimensional simulations of a fuel plate and cooling channel are presented.« less

Predicting Large Deflections of Multiplate Fuel Elements Using a Monolithic FSI Approach

DOE PAGES

Curtis, Franklin G.; Freels, James D.; Ekici, Kivanc

2017-10-26

As part of the Global Threat Reduction Initiative, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory is evaluating conversion of fuel for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) from high-enriched uranium to low-enriched uranium. Currently, multiphysics simulations that model fluid-structure interaction phenomena are being performed to ensure the safety of the reactor with the new fuel type. A monolithic solver that fully couples fluid and structural dynamics is used to model deflections in the new design. A classical experiment is chosen to validate the capabilities of the current solver and the method. Here, a single-plate simulation with various boundary conditions as well asmore » a five-plate simulation are presented. Finally, use of the monolithic solver provides stable solutions for the large deflections and the tight coupling of the fluid and structure and the maximum deflections are captured accurately.« less

Fuel injector for use in a gas turbine engine

DOEpatents

Wiebe, David J.

2012-10-09

A fuel injector in a combustor apparatus of a gas turbine engine. An outer wall of the injector defines an interior volume in which an intermediate wall is disposed. A first gap is formed between the outer wall and the intermediate wall. The intermediate wall defines an internal volume in which an inner wall is disposed. A second gap is formed between the intermediate wall and the inner wall. The second gap receives cooling fluid that cools the injector. The cooling fluid provides convective cooling to the intermediate wall as it flows within the second gap. The cooling fluid also flows through apertures in the intermediate wall into the first gap where it provides impingement cooling to the outer wall and provides convective cooling to the outer wall. The inner wall defines a passageway that delivers fuel into a liner downstream from a main combustion zone.

Electrical start-up for diesel fuel processing in a fuel-cell-based auxiliary power unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Samsun, Remzi Can; Krupp, Carsten; Tschauder, Andreas; Peters, Ralf; Stolten, Detlef

2016-01-01

As auxiliary power units in trucks and aircraft, fuel cell systems with a diesel and kerosene reforming capacity offer the dual benefit of reduced emissions and fuel consumption. In order to be commercially viable, these systems require a quick start-up time with low energy input. In pursuit of this end, this paper reports an electrical start-up strategy for diesel fuel processing. A transient computational fluid dynamics model is developed to optimize the start-up procedure of the fuel processor in the 28 kWth power class. The temperature trend observed in the experiments is reproducible to a high degree of accuracy using a dual-cell approach in ANSYS Fluent. Starting from a basic strategy, different options are considered for accelerating system start-up. The start-up time is reduced from 22 min in the basic case to 9.5 min, at an energy consumption of 0.4 kW h. Furthermore, an electrical wire is installed in the reformer to test the steam generation during start-up. The experimental results reveal that the generation of steam at 450 °C is possible within seconds after water addition to the reformer. As a result, the fuel processor can be started in autothermal reformer mode using the electrical concept developed in this work.

Small Liquid Hydrogen Tank for Drop Tower Tests

NASA Image and Video Library

1964-11-21

A researcher fills a small container used to represent a liquid hydrogen tank in preparation for a microgravity test in the 2.2-Second Drop Tower at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lewis Research Center. For over a decade, NASA Lewis endeavored to make liquid hydrogen a viable propellant. Hydrogen’s light weight and high energy made it very appealing for rocket propulsion. One of the unknowns at the time was the behavior of fluids in the microgravity of space. Rocket designers needed to know where the propellant would be inside the fuel tank in order to pump it to the engine. NASA Lewis utilized sounding rockets, research aircraft, and the 2.2 Second Drop Tower to study liquids in microgravity. The drop tower, originally built as a fuel distillation tower in 1948, descended into a steep ravine. By early 1961 the facility was converted into an eight-floor, 100-foot tower connected to a shop and laboratory space. Small glass tanks, like this one, were installed in experiment carts with cameras to film the liquid’s behavior during freefall. Thousands of drop tower tests in the early 1960s provided an increased understanding of low-gravity processes and phenomena. The tower only afforded a relatively short experiment time but was sufficient enough that the research could be expanded upon using longer duration freefalls on sounding rockets or aircraft. The results of the early experimental fluid studies verified predictions made by Lewis researchers that the total surface energy would be minimized in microgravity.

NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Daniels, F.

1962-12-18

A power plant is described comprising a turbine and employing round cylindrical fuel rods formed of BeO and UO/sub 2/ and stacks of hexagonal moderator blocks of BeO provided with passages that loosely receive the fuel rods so that coolant may flow through the passages over the fuels to remove heat. The coolant may be helium or steam and fiows through at least one more heat exchanger for producing vapor from a body of fluid separate from the coolant, which fluid is to drive the turbine for generating electricity. By this arrangement the turbine and directly associated parts are free of particles and radiations emanating from the reactor. (AEC)

COOLED NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Binner, C.R.; Wilkie, C.B.

1958-03-18

This patent relates to a design for a reactor of the type in which a fluid coolant is flowed through the active portion of the reactor. This design provides for the cooling of the shielding material as well as the reactor core by the same fluid coolant. The core structure is a solid moderator having coolant channels in which are disposed the fuel elements in rod or slug form. The coolant fluid enters the chamber in the shield, in which the core is located, passes over the inner surface of said chamber, enters the core structure at the center, passes through the coolant channels over the fuel elements and out through exhaust ducts.

Investigation of SSME alternate high pressure fuel turbopump lift-off seal fluid and structural dynamic interaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elrod, David A.

1989-01-01

The Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) alternate turbopump development program (ATD) high pressure fuel turbopump (HPFTP) design utilizes an innovative lift-off seal (LOS) design that is located in close proximity to the turbine end bearing. Cooling flow exiting the bearing passes through the lift-off seal during steady state operation. The potential for fluid excitation of lift-off seal structural resonances is investigated. No fluid excitation of LOS resonances is predicted. However, if predicted LOS natural frequencies are significantly lowered by the presence of the coolant, pressure oscillations caused by synchronous whirl of the HPFTP rotor may excite a resonance.

Film bonded fuel cell interface configuration

DOEpatents

Kaufman, Arthur; Terry, Peter L.

1989-01-01

The present invention relates to improved elements for use in fuel cell stacks, and more particularly, to a stack having a corrosion-resistant, electrally conductive, fluid-impervious interface member therein.

14 CFR 23.1099 - Carburetor deicing fluid system detail design.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... fluid system must meet the applicable requirements for the design of a fuel system, except as specified... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Carburetor deicing fluid system detail... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL, UTILITY, ACROBATIC, AND COMMUTER CATEGORY AIRPLANES...

14 CFR 23.1099 - Carburetor deicing fluid system detail design.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... fluid system must meet the applicable requirements for the design of a fuel system, except as specified... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Carburetor deicing fluid system detail... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL, UTILITY, ACROBATIC, AND COMMUTER CATEGORY AIRPLANES...

14 CFR 23.1099 - Carburetor deicing fluid system detail design.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... fluid system must meet the applicable requirements for the design of a fuel system, except as specified... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Carburetor deicing fluid system detail... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL, UTILITY, ACROBATIC, AND COMMUTER CATEGORY AIRPLANES...

14 CFR 23.1099 - Carburetor deicing fluid system detail design.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... fluid system must meet the applicable requirements for the design of a fuel system, except as specified... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Carburetor deicing fluid system detail... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL, UTILITY, ACROBATIC, AND COMMUTER CATEGORY AIRPLANES...

14 CFR 23.1099 - Carburetor deicing fluid system detail design.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... fluid system must meet the applicable requirements for the design of a fuel system, except as specified... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Carburetor deicing fluid system detail... TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL, UTILITY, ACROBATIC, AND COMMUTER CATEGORY AIRPLANES...

The E-3 Test Facility at Stennis Space Center: Research and Development Testing for Cryogenic and Storable Propellant Combustion Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pazos, John T.; Chandler, Craig A.; Raines, Nickey G.

2009-01-01

This paper will provide the reader a broad overview of the current upgraded capabilities of NASA's John C. Stennis Space Center E-3 Test Facility to perform testing for rocket engine combustion systems and components using liquid and gaseous oxygen, gaseous and liquid methane, gaseous hydrogen, hydrocarbon based fuels, hydrogen peroxide, high pressure water and various inert fluids. Details of propellant system capabilities will be highlighted as well as their application to recent test programs and accomplishments. Data acquisition and control, test monitoring, systems engineering and test processes will be discussed as part of the total capability of E-3 to provide affordable alternatives for subscale to full scale testing for many different requirements in the propulsion community.

Compatibility Study for Plastic, Elastomeric, and Metallic Fueling Infrastructure Materials Exposed to Aggressive Formulations of Ethanol-blended Gasoline

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kass, Michael D; Pawel, Steven J; Theiss, Timothy J

In 2008 Oak Ridge National Laboratory began a series of experiments to evaluate the compatibility of fueling infrastructure materials with intermediate levels of ethanol-blended gasoline. Initially, the focus was elastomers, metals, and sealants, and the test fuels were Fuel C, CE10a, CE17a and CE25a. The results of these studies were published in 2010. Follow-on studies were performed with an emphasis on plastic (thermoplastic and thermoset) materials used in underground storage and dispenser systems. These materials were exposed to test fuels of Fuel C and CE25a. Upon completion of this effort, it was felt that additional compatibility data with higher ethanolmore » blends was needed and another round of experimentation was performed on elastomers, metals, and plastics with CE50a and CE85a test fuels. Compatibility of polymers typically relates to the solubility of the solid polymer with a solvent. It can also mean susceptibility to chemical attack, but the polymers and test fuels evaluated in this study are not considered to be chemically reactive with each other. Solubility in polymers is typically assessed by measuring the volume swell of the polymer exposed to the solvent of interest. Elastomers are a class of polymers that are predominantly used as seals, and most o-ring and seal manufacturers provide compatibility tables of their products with various solvents including ethanol, toluene, and isooctane, which are components of aggressive oxygenated gasoline as described by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1681. These tables include a ranking based on the level of volume swell in the elastomer associated with exposure to a particular solvent. Swell is usually accompanied by a decrease in hardness (softening) that also affects performance. For seal applications, shrinkage of the elastomer upon drying is also a critical parameter since a contraction of volume can conceivably enable leakage to occur. Shrinkage is also indicative of the removal of one or more components of the elastomers (by the solvent). This extraction of additives can negatively change the properties of the elastomer, leading to reduced performance and durability. For a seal application, some level of volume swell is acceptable, since the expansion will serve to maintain a seal. However, the acceptable level of swell is dependent on the particular application of the elastomer product. It is known that excessive swell can lead to unacceptable extrusion of the elastomer beyond the sealed interface, where it becomes susceptible to damage. Also, since high swell is indicative of high solubility, there is a heightened potential for fluid to seep through the seal and into the environment. Plastics, on the other hand, are used primarily in structural applications, such as solid components, including piping and fluid containment. Volume change, especially in a rigid system, will create internal stresses that may negatively affect performance. In order to better understand and predict the compatibility for a given polymer type and fuel composition, an analysis based on Hansen solubility theory was performed for each plastic and elastomer material. From this study, the solubility distance was calculated for each polymer material and test fuel combination. Using the calculated solubility distance, the ethanol concentration associated with peak swell and overall extent of swell can be predicted for each polymer. The bulk of the material discussion centers on the plastic materials, and their compatibility with Fuel C, CE25a, CE50a, and CE85a. The next section of this paper focuses on the elastomer compatibility with the higher ethanol concentrations with comparison to results obtained previously for the lower ethanol levels. The elastomers were identical to those used in the earlier study. Hansen solubility theory is also applied to the elastomers to provide added interpretation of the results. The final section summarizes the performance of the metal coupons.« less

14 CFR 33.7 - Engine ratings and operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

....m., manifold pressure, and time at critical pressure altitude and sea level pressure altitude for... turbine wheel inlet gas. (5) Pressure of— (i) Fuel at the fuel inlet; and (ii) Oil at the main oil gallery... operation. (2) Fuel designation or specification. (3) Oil grade or specification. (4) Hydraulic fluid...

14 CFR 33.7 - Engine ratings and operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

....m., manifold pressure, and time at critical pressure altitude and sea level pressure altitude for... turbine wheel inlet gas. (5) Pressure of— (i) Fuel at the fuel inlet; and (ii) Oil at the main oil gallery... operation. (2) Fuel designation or specification. (3) Oil grade or specification. (4) Hydraulic fluid...

14 CFR 33.7 - Engine ratings and operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

....m., manifold pressure, and time at critical pressure altitude and sea level pressure altitude for... turbine wheel inlet gas. (5) Pressure of— (i) Fuel at the fuel inlet; and (ii) Oil at the main oil gallery... operation. (2) Fuel designation or specification. (3) Oil grade or specification. (4) Hydraulic fluid...

14 CFR 33.7 - Engine ratings and operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

....m., manifold pressure, and time at critical pressure altitude and sea level pressure altitude for... turbine wheel inlet gas. (5) Pressure of— (i) Fuel at the fuel inlet; and (ii) Oil at the main oil gallery... operation. (2) Fuel designation or specification. (3) Oil grade or specification. (4) Hydraulic fluid...

Mars 2024/2026 Pathfinder Mission: Mars Architectures, Systems, and Technologies for Exploration and Resources Project

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zeitlin, Nancy; Mueller, Robert; Muscatello, Anthony

2015-01-01

Integrate In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) sub-systems and examine advanced capabilities and technologies to verify Mars 2024 Forward architecture precursor pathfinder options: Integrated spacecraft/surface infrastructure fluid architecture: propulsion, power, life support center dot Power system feed and propellant scavenging from propulsion system center dot High quality oxygen for life support and EVA Fluid/cryogenic zero-loss transfer and long-term storage center dot Rapid depot-to-rover/spacecraft center dot Slow ISRU plant-to-ascent vehicle Integration of ISRU consumable production center dot Oxygen only from Mars atmosphere carbon dioxide center dot Oxygen, fuel, water, from extraterrestrial soil/regolith Test bed to evaluate long duration life, operations, maintenance on hardware, sensors, and autonomy

Navy Coalescence Test on Petroleum F-76 Fuel with FAME Additive at 1%

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-20

sponsored studies have shown that in many countries there is an undesirable concentration of Fatty Acid Methyl - Ester ( FAME ) present in the F-76. This...have shown that in many countries there may be an undesirable concentration of Fatty Acid Methyl - Ester ( FAME ) present in the F-76. This study was...Acid Methyl - Ester DEFINITIONS Turnover ..................amount of time it takes to flow the entire volume of fluid in a container, also

Field Evaluation of Particle Counter Technology for Aviation Fuel Contamination Detection - Fort Campbell

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-06

Counter, cleanliness, free water, Diesel 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT none 18. NUMBER OF PAGES 31 19a. NAME OF...L for Intra-Governmental transfer receipts and 1.0 mg/L on issue to aircraft, or up to 10 mg/L for product used as a diesel product for ground use...hydraulic fluid industry. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published several methods and test procedures for the calibration and

Rapid Evaporation in Fuel Injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCahan, S.; Kessler, C.

1997-11-01

Preheating fuel prior to injection through a nozzle can induce a superheated state during expansion. The resulting rapid evaporation improves atomization of the fluid and, therefore, may improve combustion efficiency. A sufficient degree of superheat im posed on a fuel with a high specific heat (retrograde fluid) can theoretically result in complete evaporation. In the work done by Sloss and McCahan (APS/DFD meeting 1996), dodecane, fuel oil, kerosene, and diesel oil were studied. In this continuation of the same study, decane and tetradecane are preheated to temperatures ranging from 20^oC to 330^oC at a p ressure of 10 bar and injected into a chamber at 1 bar. A simple converging nozzle is used. Photographs taken of the resulting sprays are used to determine cone angles and make qualitative observations of droplet size and spray structure.

Removal of basic nitrogen compounds from hydrocarbon liquids

DOEpatents

Givens, Edwin N.; Hoover, David S.

1985-01-01

A method is provided for reducing the concentration of basic nitrogen compounds in hydrocarbonaceous feedstock fluids used in the refining industry by providing a solid particulate carbonaceous adsorbent/fuel material such as coal having active basic nitrogen complexing sites on the surface thereof and the coal with a hydrocarbonaceous feedstock containing basic nitrogen compounds to facilitate attraction of the basic nitrogen compounds to the complexing sites and the formation of complexes thereof on the surface of the coal. The adsorbent coal material and the complexes formed thereon are from the feedstock fluid to provide a hydrocarbonaceous fluid of reduced basic nitrogen compound concentration. The coal can then be used as fuel for boilers and the like.

Low current plasmatron fuel converter having enlarged volume discharges

DOEpatents

Rabinovich, Alexander; Alexeev, Nikolai; Bromberg, Leslie; Cohn, Daniel R.; Samokhin, Andrei

2005-04-19

A novel apparatus and method is disclosed for a plasmatron fuel converter (""plasmatron"") that efficiently uses electrical energy to produce hydrogen rich gas. The volume and shape of the plasma discharge is controlled by a fluid flow established in a plasma discharge volume. A plasmatron according to this invention produces a substantially large effective plasma discharge volume allowing for substantially greater volumetric efficiency in the initiation of chemical reactions within a volume of bulk fluid reactant flowing through the plasmatron.

Low current plasmatron fuel converter having enlarged volume discharges

DOEpatents

Rabinovich, Alexander [Swampscott, MA; Alexeev, Nikolai [Moscow, RU; Bromberg, Leslie [Sharon, MA; Cohn, Daniel R [Chestnut Hill, MA; Samokhin, Andrei [Moscow, RU

2009-10-06

A novel apparatus and method is disclosed for a plasmatron fuel converter ("plasmatron") that efficiently uses electrical energy to produce hydrogen rich gas. The volume and shape of the plasma discharge is controlled by a fluid flow established in a plasma discharge volume. A plasmatron according to this invention produces a substantially large effective plasma discharge volume allowing for substantially greater volumetric efficiency in the initiation of chemical reactions within a volume of bulk fluid reactant flowing through the plasmatron.

Coal-water slurry spray characteristics of an electronically-controlled accumulator fuel injection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caton, J. A.; Payne, S. E.; Terracina, D. P.; Kihm, K. D.

Experiments have been complete to characterize coal-water slurry sprays from a electronically-controlled accumulator fuel injection system of diesel engine. The sprays were injected into a pressurized chamber equipped with windows. High speed movies, fuel pressures and needle lifts were obtained as a function of time, orifice diameter, coal loading, gas density in the chamber, and accumulator fuel pressure. For the base conditions 50% (by mass) coal loading, 0.4 mm diameter nozzle hole, coal-water slurry pressure of 82 MPa (12,000 psi), and a chamber density of 25 kg/m(exp 3), the break-up time was 0.30 ms. An empirical correlation for both spray tip penetration and initial jet velocity was developed. For the conditions of this study, the spray tip penetration and initial jet velocity were 15% greater for coal-water slurry than for diesel fuel or water. Cone angles of the sprays were dependent on the operating conditions and fluid, as well as the time and locations of the measurement. The time-averaged cone angle for the base case conditions was 13.6 degrees. Results of this study and the correlation are specific to the tested coal-water slurry and are not general for other coal-water slurry fuels.

Method and apparatus for chemically altering fluids in continuous flow

DOEpatents

Heath, W.O.; Virden, J.W. Jr.; Richardson, R.L.; Bergsman, T.M.

1993-10-19

The present invention relates to a continuous flow fluid reactor for chemically altering fluids. The reactor operates on standard frequency (50 to 60 Hz) electricity. The fluid reactor contains particles that are energized by the electricity to form a corona throughout the volume of the reactor and subsequently a non-equilibrium plasma that interacts with the fluid. Particles may form a fixed bed or a fluid bed. Electricity may be provided through electrodes or through an inductive coil. Fluids include gases containing exhaust products and organic fuels requiring oxidation. 4 figures.

Method and apparatus for chemically altering fluids in continuous flow

DOEpatents

Heath, William O.; Virden, Jr., Judson W.; Richardson, R. L.; Bergsman, Theresa M.

1993-01-01

The present invention relates to a continuous flow fluid reactor for chemically altering fluids. The reactor operates on standard frequency (50 to 60 Hz) electricity. The fluid reactor contains particles that are energized by the electricity to form a corona throughout the volume of the reactor and subsequently a non-equilibrium plasma that interacts with the fluid. Particles may form a fixed bed or a fluid bed. Electricity may be provided through electrodes or through an inductive coil. Fluids include gases containing exhaust products and organic fuels requiring oxidation.

Fuel cell assembly unit for promoting fluid service and electrical conductivity

DOEpatents

Jones, Daniel O.

1999-01-01

Fluid service and/or electrical conductivity for a fuel cell assembly is promoted. Open-faced flow channel(s) are formed in a flow field plate face, and extend in the flow field plate face between entry and exit fluid manifolds. A resilient gas diffusion layer is located between the flow field plate face and a membrane electrode assembly, fluidly serviced with the open-faced flow channel(s). The resilient gas diffusion layer is restrained against entering the open-faced flow channel(s) under a compressive force applied to the fuel cell assembly. In particular, a first side of a support member abuts the flow field plate face, and a second side of the support member abuts the resilient gas diffusion layer. The support member is formed with a plurality of openings extending between the first and second sides of the support member. In addition, a clamping pressure is maintained for an interface between the resilient gas diffusion layer and a portion of the membrane electrode assembly. Preferably, the support member is spikeless and/or substantially flat. Further, the support member is formed with an electrical path for conducting current between the resilient gas diffusion layer and position(s) on the flow field plate face.

Influence of the operational parameters on bioelectricity generation in continuous microbial fuel cell, experimental and computational fluid dynamics modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobieszuk, Paweł; Zamojska-Jaroszewicz, Anna; Makowski, Łukasz

2017-12-01

The influence of the organic loading rate (also known as active anodic chamber volume) on bioelectricity generation in a continuous, two-chamber microbial fuel cell for the treatment of synthetic wastewater, with glucose as the only carbon source, was examined. Ten sets of experiments with different combinations of hydraulic retention times (0.24-1.14 d) and influent chemical oxygen demand concentrations were performed to verify the impact of organic loading rate on the voltage generation capacity of a simple dual-chamber microbial fuel cell working in continuous mode. We found that there is an optimal hydraulic retention time value at which the maximum voltage is generated: 0.41 d. However, there were no similar effects, in terms of voltage generation, when a constant hydraulic retention time with different influent chemical oxygen demand of wastewater was used. The obtained maximal voltage value (600 mV) has also been compared to literature data. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to calculate the fluid flow and the exit age distribution of fluid elements in the reactor to explain the obtained experimental results and identify the crucial parameters for the design of bioreactors on an industrial scale.

14 CFR 33.67 - Fuel system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... STANDARDS: AIRCRAFT ENGINES Design and Construction; Turbine Aircraft Engines § 33.67 Fuel system. (a) With... range with the fuel initially saturated with water at 80 °F (27 °C) and having 0.025 fluid ounces per gallon (0.20 milliliters per liter) of free water added and cooled to the most critical condition for...

Analysis of Aircraft Fuels and Related Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-03-01

the fluid. Similarly, a specimen of a metal - reinforced braided fuel hose was cut into two pieces of nominally 50 mm length, with each being weighed...fuel hose was there significant weight gain. That particular specimen, due to its fabrication in layers of elast)mer, cord and metal reinforcing, gave...FUELS The combustion products of certain JP-9 fuels were reported to cause pitting and erosion of MAR M509 metal , an alloy of chro- $ mium and cobalt

Vertical feed stick wood fuel burning furnace system

DOEpatents

Hill, Richard C.

1984-01-01

A new and improved stove or furnace for efficient combustion of wood fuel including a vertical feed combustion chamber for receiving and supporting wood fuel in a vertical attitude or stack, a major upper portion of the combustion chamber column comprising a water jacket for coupling to a source of water or heat transfer fluid and for convection circulation of the fluid for confining the locus of wood fuel combustion to the bottom of the vertical gravity feed combustion chamber. A flue gas propagation delay channel extending from the laterally directed draft outlet affords delayed travel time in a high temperature environment to assure substantially complete combustion of the gaseous products of wood burning with forced air as an actively induced draft draws the fuel gas and air mixture laterally through the combustion and high temperature zone. Active sources of forced air and induced draft are included, multiple use and circuit couplings for the recovered heat, and construction features in the refractory material substructure and metal component superstructure.

40 CFR 63.1012 - Compressor standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed... sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. Each sensor shall be... the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. If the sensor indicates failure of the seal system...

40 CFR 63.1012 - Compressor standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed... sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. Each sensor shall be... the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. If the sensor indicates failure of the seal system...

40 CFR 761.71 - High efficiency boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... PROHIBITIONS Storage and Disposal § 761.71 High efficiency boilers. (a) To burn mineral oil dielectric fluid... percent when PCBs are being burned. (iv) The mineral oil dielectric fluid does not comprise more than 10 percent (on a volume basis) of the total fuel feed rate. (v) The mineral oil dielectric fluid is not fed...

40 CFR 761.71 - High efficiency boilers.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... PROHIBITIONS Storage and Disposal § 761.71 High efficiency boilers. (a) To burn mineral oil dielectric fluid... percent when PCBs are being burned. (iv) The mineral oil dielectric fluid does not comprise more than 10 percent (on a volume basis) of the total fuel feed rate. (v) The mineral oil dielectric fluid is not fed...

Fluid Flow Investigations within a 37 Element CANDU Fuel Bundle Supported by Magnetic Resonance Velocimetry and Computational Fluid Dynamics

DOE PAGES

Piro, M.H.A; Wassermann, F.; Grundmann, S.; ...

2017-05-23

The current work presents experimental and computational investigations of fluid flow through a 37 element CANDU nuclear fuel bundle. Experiments based on Magnetic Resonance Velocimetry (MRV) permit three-dimensional, three-component fluid velocity measurements to be made within the bundle with sub-millimeter resolution that are non-intrusive, do not require tracer particles or optical access of the flow field. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations of the foregoing experiments were performed with the hydra-th code using implicit large eddy simulation, which were in good agreement with experimental measurements of the fluid velocity. Greater understanding has been gained in the evolution of geometry-induced inter-subchannel mixing,more » the local effects of obstructed debris on the local flow field, and various turbulent effects, such as recirculation, swirl and separation. These capabilities are not available with conventional experimental techniques or thermal-hydraulic codes. Finally, the overall goal of this work is to continue developing experimental and computational capabilities for further investigations that reliably support nuclear reactor performance and safety.« less

Fluid Flow Investigations within a 37 Element CANDU Fuel Bundle Supported by Magnetic Resonance Velocimetry and Computational Fluid Dynamics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Piro, M.H.A; Wassermann, F.; Grundmann, S.

The current work presents experimental and computational investigations of fluid flow through a 37 element CANDU nuclear fuel bundle. Experiments based on Magnetic Resonance Velocimetry (MRV) permit three-dimensional, three-component fluid velocity measurements to be made within the bundle with sub-millimeter resolution that are non-intrusive, do not require tracer particles or optical access of the flow field. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations of the foregoing experiments were performed with the hydra-th code using implicit large eddy simulation, which were in good agreement with experimental measurements of the fluid velocity. Greater understanding has been gained in the evolution of geometry-induced inter-subchannel mixing,more » the local effects of obstructed debris on the local flow field, and various turbulent effects, such as recirculation, swirl and separation. These capabilities are not available with conventional experimental techniques or thermal-hydraulic codes. Finally, the overall goal of this work is to continue developing experimental and computational capabilities for further investigations that reliably support nuclear reactor performance and safety.« less

The composition-explicit distillation curve technique: Relating chemical analysis and physical properties of complex fluids.

PubMed

Bruno, Thomas J; Ott, Lisa S; Lovestead, Tara M; Huber, Marcia L

2010-04-16

The analysis of complex fluids such as crude oils, fuels, vegetable oils and mixed waste streams poses significant challenges arising primarily from the multiplicity of components, the different properties of the components (polarity, polarizability, etc.) and matrix properties. We have recently introduced an analytical strategy that simplifies many of these analyses, and provides the added potential of linking compositional information with physical property information. This aspect can be used to facilitate equation of state development for the complex fluids. In addition to chemical characterization, the approach provides the ability to calculate thermodynamic properties for such complex heterogeneous streams. The technique is based on the advanced distillation curve (ADC) metrology, which separates a complex fluid by distillation into fractions that are sampled, and for which thermodynamically consistent temperatures are measured at atmospheric pressure. The collected sample fractions can be analyzed by any method that is appropriate. The analytical methods we have applied include gas chromatography (with flame ionization, mass spectrometric and sulfur chemiluminescence detection), thin layer chromatography, FTIR, corrosivity analysis, neutron activation analysis and cold neutron prompt gamma activation analysis. By far, the most widely used analytical technique we have used with the ADC is gas chromatography. This has enabled us to study finished fuels (gasoline, diesel fuels, aviation fuels, rocket propellants), crude oils (including a crude oil made from swine manure) and waste oils streams (used automotive and transformer oils). In this special issue of the Journal of Chromatography, specifically dedicated to extraction technologies, we describe the essential features of the advanced distillation curve metrology as an analytical strategy for complex fluids. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Assessment of existing Sierra/Fuego capabilities related to grid-to-rod-fretting (GTRF).

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Turner, Daniel Zack; Rodriguez, Salvador B.

2011-06-01

The following report presents an assessment of existing capabilities in Sierra/Fuego applied to modeling several aspects of grid-to-rod-fretting (GTRF) including: fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and fluid-structure interaction. We compare the results of a number of Fuego simulations with relevant sources in the literature to evaluate the accuracy, efficiency, and robustness of using Fuego to model the aforementioned aspects. Comparisons between flow domains that include the full fuel rod length vs. a subsection of the domain near the spacer show that tremendous efficiency gains can be obtained by truncating the domain without loss of accuracy. Thermal analysis reveals the extent tomore » which heat transfer from the fuel rods to the coolant is improved by the swirling flow created by the mixing vanes. Lastly, coupled fluid-structure interaction analysis shows that the vibrational modes of the fuel rods filter out high frequency turbulent pressure fluctuations. In general, these results allude to interesting phenomena for which further investigation could be quite fruitful.« less

Performance characteristics of LOX-H2, tangential-entry, swirl-coaxial, rocket injectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howell, Doug; Petersen, Eric; Clark, Jim

1993-01-01

Development of a high performing swirl-coaxial injector requires an understanding of fundamental performance characteristics. This paper addresses the findings of studies on cold flow atomic characterizations which provided information on the influence of fluid properties and element operating conditions on the produced droplet sprays. These findings are applied to actual rocket conditions. The performance characteristics of swirl-coaxial injection elements under multi-element hot-fire conditions were obtained by analysis of combustion performance data from three separate test series. The injection elements are described and test results are analyzed using multi-variable linear regression. A direct comparison of test results indicated that reduced fuel injection velocity improved injection element performance through improved propellant mixing.

Computational investigation of intense short-wavelength laser interaction with rare gas clusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bigaouette, Nicolas

Current Very High Temperature Reactor designs incorporate TRi-structural ISOtropic (TRISO) particle fuel, which consists of a spherical fissile fuel kernel surrounded by layers of pyrolytic carbon and silicon carbide. An internal sol-gel process forms the fuel kernel by dropping a cold precursor solution into a column of hot trichloroethylene (TCE). The temperature difference drives the liquid precursor solution to precipitate the metal solution into gel spheres before reaching the bottom of a production column. Over time, gelation byproducts inhibit complete gelation and the TCE must be purified or discarded. The resulting mixed-waste stream is expensive to dispose of or recycle, and changing the forming fluid to a non-hazardous alternative could greatly improve the economics of kernel production. Selection criteria for a replacement forming fluid narrowed a list of ~10,800 chemicals to yield ten potential replacements. The physical properties of the alternatives were measured as a function of temperature between 25 °C and 80 °C. Calculated terminal velocities and heat transfer rates provided an overall column height approximation. 1-bromotetradecane, 1-chlorooctadecane, and 1-iodododecane were selected for further testing, and surrogate yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) kernels were produced using these selected fluids. The kernels were characterized for density, geometry, composition, and crystallinity and compared to a control group of kernels produced in silicone oil. Production in 1-bromotetradecane showed positive results, producing dense (93.8 %TD) and spherical (1.03 aspect ratio) kernels, but proper gelation did not occur in the other alternative forming fluids. With many of the YSZ kernels not properly gelling within the length of the column, this project further investigated the heat transfer properties of the forming fluids and precursor solution. A sensitivity study revealed that the heat transfer properties of the precursor solution have the strongest impact on gelation time. A COMSOL heat transfer model estimated an effective thermal diffusivity range for the YSZ precursor solution as 1.13x10 -8 m2/s to 3.35x10-8 m 2/s, which is an order of magnitude smaller than the value used in previous studies. 1-bromotetradecane is recommended for further investigation with the production of uranium-based kernels.

Radiation receiver

DOEpatents

Hunt, A.J.

1983-09-13

The apparatus for collecting radiant energy and converting same to alternate energy form includes a housing having an interior space and a radiation transparent window allowing, for example, solar radiation to be received in the interior space of the housing. Means are provided for passing a stream of fluid past said window and for injecting radiation absorbent particles in said fluid stream. The particles absorb the radiation and because of their very large surface area, quickly release the heat to the surrounding fluid stream. The fluid stream particle mixture is heated until the particles vaporize. The fluid stream is then allowed to expand in, for example, a gas turbine to produce mechanical energy. In an aspect of the present invention properly sized particles need not be vaporized prior to the entrance of the fluid stream into the turbine, as the particles will not damage the turbine blades. In yet another aspect of the invention, conventional fuel injectors are provided to inject fuel into the fluid stream to maintain the proper temperature and pressure of the fluid stream should the source of radiant energy be interrupted. In yet another aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided which includes means for providing a hot fluid stream having hot particles disbursed therein which can radiate energy, means for providing a cooler fluid stream having cooler particles disbursed therein, which particles can absorb radiant energy and means for passing the hot fluid stream adjacent the cooler fluid stream to warm the cooler fluid and cooler particles by the radiation from the hot fluid and hot particles. 5 figs.

Radiation receiver

DOEpatents

Hunt, Arlon J.

1983-01-01

The apparatus for collecting radiant energy and converting same to alternate energy form includes a housing having an interior space and a radiation transparent window allowing, for example, solar radiation to be received in the interior space of the housing. Means are provided for passing a stream of fluid past said window and for injecting radiation absorbent particles in said fluid stream. The particles absorb the radiation and because of their very large surface area, quickly release the heat to the surrounding fluid stream. The fluid stream particle mixture is heated until the particles vaporize. The fluid stream is then allowed to expand in, for example, a gas turbine to produce mechanical energy. In an aspect of the present invention properly sized particles need not be vaporized prior to the entrance of the fluid stream into the turbine, as the particles will not damage the turbine blades. In yet another aspect of the invention, conventional fuel injectors are provided to inject fuel into the fluid stream to maintain the proper temperature and pressure of the fluid stream should the source of radiant energy be interrupted. In yet another aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided which includes means for providing a hot fluid stream having hot particles disbursed therein which can radiate energy, means for providing a cooler fluid stream having cooler particles disbursed therein, which particles can absorb radiant energy and means for passing the hot fluid stream adjacent the cooler fluid stream to warm the cooler fluid and cooler particles by the radiation from the hot fluid and hot particles.

Radiant energy collection and conversion apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Hunt, Arlon J.

1982-01-01

The apparatus for collecting radiant energy and converting same to alternate energy form includes a housing having an interior space and a radiation transparent window allowing, for example, solar radiation to be received in the interior space of the housing. Means are provided for passing a stream of fluid past said window and for injecting radiation absorbent particles in said fluid stream. The particles absorb the radiation and because of their very large surface area, quickly release the heat to the surrounding fluid stream. The fluid stream particle mixture is heated until the particles vaporize. The fluid stream is then allowed to expand in, for example, a gas turbine to produce mechanical energy. In an aspect of the present invention properly sized particles need not be vaporized prior to the entrance of the fluid stream into the turbine, as the particles will not damage the turbine blades. In yet another aspect of the invention, conventional fuel injectors are provided to inject fuel into the fluid stream to maintain the proper temperature and pressure of the fluid stream should the source of radiant energy be interrupted. In yet another aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided which includes means for providing a hot fluid stream having hot particles disbursed therein which can radiate energy, means for providing a cooler fluid stream having cooler particles disbursed therein, which particles can absorb radiant energy and means for passing the hot fluid stream adjacent the cooler fluid stream to warm the cooler fluid and cooler particles by the radiation from the hot fluid and hot particles.

Radiant energy collection and conversion apparatus and method

DOEpatents

Hunt, A.J.

The apparatus for collecting radiant energy and converting to alternate energy forms includes a housing having an interior space and a radiation transparent window allowing solar radiation to be received in the interior space of the housing. Means are provided for passing a stream of fluid past the window and for injecting radiation absorbent particles in said fluid stream. The particles absorb the radiation and because of their very large surface area, quickly release the heat to the surrounding fluid stream. The fluid stream particle mixture is heated until the particles vaporize. The fluid stream is then allowed to expand in, for example, a gas turbine to produce mechanical energy. In an aspect of the present invention properly sized particles need not be vaporized prior to the entrance of the fluid stream into the turbine, as the particles will not damage the turbine blades. In yet another aspect of the invention, conventional fuel injectors are provided to inject fuel into the fluid stream to maintain the proper temperature and pressure of the fluid stream should the source of radiant energy be interrupted. In yet another aspect of the invention, an apparatus is provided which includes means for providing a hot fluid stream having hot particles disbursed therein which can radiate energy, means for providing a cooler fluid stream having cooler particles disbursed therein, which particles can absorb radiant energy and means for passing the hot fluid stream adjacent the cooler fluid stream to warm the cooler fluid and cooler particles by the radiation from the hot fluid and hot particles.

Controlled shutdown of a fuel cell

DOEpatents

Clingerman, Bruce J.; Keskula, Donald H.

2002-01-01

A method is provided for the shutdown of a fuel cell system to relieve system overpressure while maintaining air compressor operation, and corresponding vent valving and control arrangement. The method and venting arrangement are employed in a fuel cell system, for instance a vehicle propulsion system, comprising, in fluid communication, an air compressor having an outlet for providing air to the system, a combustor operative to provide combustor exhaust to the fuel processor.

Thermal Fluid Analysis of the Combustor Test Setup for a US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) Liquid-Fueled Thermophotovoltaic Power Source Demonstrator

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

requiring only a few hours of running time. In the 10–100 W+ power range, battery technology is the best solution currently available, but higher...energy dense technologies are needed to augment batteries and extend the available energy density well beyond state of the art battery technology. One way...provide comparable energy density to battery technology with the added advantage of instant recharge. One technology being pursued by the US Army

Fluid-flow-rate metrology: laboratory uncertainties and traceabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mattingly, G. E.

1991-03-01

Increased concerns for improved fluid flowrate measurement are driving the fluid metering community-meter manufacturers and users alike-to search for better verification and documentation for their fluid measurements. These concerns affect both our domestic and international market places they permeate our technologies - aerospace chemical processes automotive bioengineering etc. They involve public health and safety and they impact our national defense. These concerns are based upon the rising value of fluid resources and products and the importance of critical material accountability. These values directly impact the accuracy needs of fluid buyers and sellers in custody transfers. These concerns impact the designers and operators of chemical process systems where control and productivity optimization depend critically upon measurement precision. Public health and safety depend upon the quality of numerous pollutant measurements - both liquid and gaseous. The performance testing of engines - both automotive and aircraft are critically based upon accurate fuel measurements - both liquid and oxidizer streams. Fluid flowrate measurements are established differently from counterparts in length and mass measurement systems because these have the benefits of " identity" standards. For rate measurement systems the metrology is based upon " derived standards" . These use facilities and transfer standards which are designed built characterized and used to constitute basic measurement capabilities and quantify performance - accuracy and precision. Because " identity standards" do not exist for flow measurements facsimiles or equivalents must

Issues associated with modelling of proton exchange membrane fuel cell by computational fluid dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bednarek, Tomasz; Tsotridis, Georgios

2017-03-01

The objective of the current study is to highlight possible limitations and difficulties associated with Computational Fluid Dynamics in PEM single fuel cell modelling. It is shown that an appropriate convergence methodology should be applied for steady-state solutions, due to inherent numerical instabilities. A single channel fuel cell model has been taken as numerical example. Results are evaluated for quantitative as well qualitative points of view. The contribution to the polarization curve of the different fuel cell components such as bi-polar plates, gas diffusion layers, catalyst layers and membrane was investigated via their effects on the overpotentials. Furthermore, the potential losses corresponding to reaction kinetics, due to ohmic and mas transport limitations and the effect of the exchange current density and open circuit voltage, were also investigated. It is highlighted that the lack of reliable and robust input data is one of the issues for obtaining accurate results.

Magnetic Fluids Deliver Better Speaker Sound Quality

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2015-01-01

In the 1960s, Glenn Research Center developed a magnetized fluid to draw rocket fuel into spacecraft engines while in space. Sony has incorporated the technology into its line of slim speakers by using the fluid as a liquid stand-in for the speaker's dampers, which prevent the speaker from blowing out while adding stability. The fluid helps to deliver more volume and hi-fidelity sound while reducing distortion.

Subacute effects of inhaled Jet Fuel-A (Jet A) on airway and immune function in female rats.

PubMed

Sweeney, Lisa M; Prues, Susan L; Reboulet, James E

2013-04-01

Two studies were conducted to assess the potential airway and immune effects following subacute (14 d) exposure of female rats to 500, 1000 or 2000 mg/m³ of Jet-A for 4 h/d. The first study used Sprague-Dawley rats; the second study included both Fischer 344 (F344) and Sprague-Dawley rats. In the first study, exposure to 2000 mg/m³ jet fuel may have caused significant upper airway inflammation on day 7 post-exposure, as indicated by elevated protein and lactate dehydrogenase in nasal lavage fluid, but any inflammation resolved by day 14 post-exposure. No significant impact on immune cell populations in the spleens was observed. The histological examination showed no evidence of infectious or toxic effect. In the second study, body weights of the F344 rats in the 2000 mg/m³ group were depressed, as compared to the controls, at the end of the exposure. Some lung lavage fluid markers were increased at 24 h after the final exposure, however, no test article-induced histological changes were observed in the lungs, nasal cavities, or any other tissue of any of the jet fuel exposed animals. Overall, these studies demonstrated limited evidence of effects of 14 d of exposure to Jet A on the airways, immune system, or any other organ or system of female Sprague-Dawley and F344 rats, with no remarkable differences between strains. The lack of identified significant airway or immune effects was in contrast to previous examinations of jet fuel for pulmonary toxicity in mice and rats and for immunotoxicity in mice.

Effect of Spray Cone Angle on Flame Stability in an Annular Gas Turbine Combustor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, R. K.; Kumar, S. Kishore; Chandel, Sunil

2016-04-01

Effect of fuel spray cone angle in an aerogas turbine combustor has been studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and full-scale combustor testing. For CFD analysis, a 22.5° sector of an annular combustor is modeled and the governing equations are solved using the eddy dissipation combustion model in ANSYS CFX computational package. The analysis has been carried out at 125 kPa and 303 K inlet conditions for spray cone angles from 60° to 140°. The lean blowout limits are established by studying the behavior of combustion zone during transient engine operation from an initial steady-state condition. The computational study has been followed by testing the practical full-scale annular combustor in an aerothermal test facility. The experimental result is in a good agreement with the computational predictions. The lean blowout fuel-air ratio increases as the spray cone angle is decreased at constant operating pressure and temperature. At higher spray cone angle, the flame and high-temperature zone moves upstream close to atomizer face and a uniform flame is sustained over a wide region causing better flame stability.

Reference Computational Meshing Strategy for Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Departure from Nucleate BoilingReference Computational Meshing Strategy for Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Departure from Nucleate Boiling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pointer, William David

The objective of this effort is to establish a strategy and process for generation of suitable computational mesh for computational fluid dynamics simulations of departure from nucleate boiling in a 5 by 5 fuel rod assembly held in place by PWR mixing vane spacer grids. This mesh generation process will support ongoing efforts to develop, demonstrate and validate advanced multi-phase computational fluid dynamics methods that enable more robust identification of dryout conditions and DNB occurrence.Building upon prior efforts and experience, multiple computational meshes were developed using the native mesh generation capabilities of the commercial CFD code STAR-CCM+. These meshes weremore » used to simulate two test cases from the Westinghouse 5 by 5 rod bundle facility. The sensitivity of predicted quantities of interest to the mesh resolution was then established using two evaluation methods, the Grid Convergence Index method and the Least Squares method. This evaluation suggests that the Least Squares method can reliably establish the uncertainty associated with local parameters such as vector velocity components at a point in the domain or surface averaged quantities such as outlet velocity magnitude. However, neither method is suitable for characterization of uncertainty in global extrema such as peak fuel surface temperature, primarily because such parameters are not necessarily associated with a fixed point in space. This shortcoming is significant because the current generation algorithm for identification of DNB event conditions relies on identification of such global extrema. Ongoing efforts to identify DNB based on local surface conditions will address this challenge« less

Thulium-170 heat source

DOEpatents

Walter, Carl E.; Van Konynenburg, Richard; VanSant, James H.

1992-01-01

An isotopic heat source is formed using stacks of thin individual layers of a refractory isotopic fuel, preferably thulium oxide, alternating with layers of a low atomic weight diluent, preferably graphite. The graphite serves several functions: to act as a moderator during neutron irradiation, to minimize bremsstrahlung radiation, and to facilitate heat transfer. The fuel stacks are inserted into a heat block, which is encased in a sealed, insulated and shielded structural container. Heat pipes are inserted in the heat block and contain a working fluid. The heat pipe working fluid transfers heat from the heat block to a heat exchanger for power conversion. Single phase gas pressure controls the flow of the working fluid for maximum heat exchange and to provide passive cooling.

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps..., including fluid control systems. 61.20-3 Section 61.20-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Equipment § 61.20-3 Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems...

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps..., including fluid control systems. 61.20-3 Section 61.20-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Equipment § 61.20-3 Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems...

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps..., including fluid control systems. 61.20-3 Section 61.20-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Equipment § 61.20-3 Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems...

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps..., including fluid control systems. 61.20-3 Section 61.20-3 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND... Equipment § 61.20-3 Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems...

A distributed fluid level sensor suitable for monitoring fuel load on board a moving fuel tank

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arkwright, John W.; Parkinson, Luke A.; Papageorgiou, Anthony W.

2018-02-01

A temperature insensitive fiber Bragg grating sensing array has been developed for monitoring fluid levels in a moving tank. The sensors are formed from two optical fibers twisted together to form a double helix with pairs of fiber Bragg gratings located above one another at the points where the fibers are vertically disposed. The sensing mechanism is based on a downwards deflection of the section of the double helix containing the FBGs which causes the tension in the upper FBG to decrease and the tension in the lower FBG to increase with concomitant changes in Bragg wavelength in each FBG. Changes in ambient temperature cause a common mode increase in Bragg wavelength, thus monitoring the differential change in wavelength provides a temperature independent measure of the applied pressure. Ambient temperature can be monitored simultaneously by taking the average wavelength of the upper and lower FBGs. The sensors are able to detect variations in pressure with resolutions better than 1 mmH2O and when placed on the bottom of a tank can be used to monitor fluid level based on the recorded pressure. Using an array of these sensors located along the bottom of a moving tank it was possible to monitor the fluid level at multiple points and hence dynamically track the total fluid volume in the tank. The outer surface of the sensing array is formed from a thin continuous Teflon sleeve, making it suitable for monitoring the level of volatile fluids such as aviation fuel and gasoline.

Failure Investigation of an Intra-Manifold Explosion in a Horizontally-Mounted 870 lbf Reaction Control Thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Durning, Joseph G., III; Westover, Shayne C.; Cone, Darren M.

2011-01-01

In June 2010, an 870 lbf Space Shuttle Orbiter Reaction Control System Primary Thruster experienced an unintended shutdown during a test being performed at the NASA White Sands Test Facility. Subsequent removal and inspection of the thruster revealed permanent deformation and misalignment of the thruster valve mounting plate. Destructive evaluation determined that after three nominal firing sequences, the thruster had experienced an energetic event within the fuel (monomethylhydrazine) manifold at the start of the fourth firing sequence. The current understanding of the phenomenon of intra-manifold explosions in hypergolic bipropellant thrusters is documented in literature where it is colloquially referred to as a ZOT. The typical ZOT scenario involves operation of a thruster in a gravitational field with environmental pressures above the triple point pressure of the propellants. Post-firing, when the thruster valves are commanded closed, there remains a residual quantity of propellant in both the fuel and oxidizer (nitrogen tetroxide) injector manifolds known as the "dribble volume". In an ambient ground test configuration, these propellant volumes will drain from the injector manifolds but are impeded by the local atmospheric pressure. The evacuation of propellants from the thruster injector manifolds relies on the fluids vapor pressure to expel the liquid. The higher vapor pressure oxidizer will evacuate from the manifold before the lower vapor pressure fuel. The localized cooling resulting from the oxidizer boiling during manifold draining can result in fuel vapor migration and condensation in the oxidizer passage. The liquid fuel will then react with the oxidizer that enters the manifold during the next firing and may produce a localized high pressure reaction or explosion within the confines of the oxidizer injector manifold. The typical ZOT scenario was considered during this failure investigation, but was ultimately ruled out as a cause of the explosion. Converse to the typical ZOT failure mechanism, the failure of this particular thruster was determined to be the result of liquid oxidizer being present within the fuel manifold.

High-Pressure Liquid Chromatograph with Mass Spectrometric Detection for Analysis of Supercritical Fuels Pyrolysis Products

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-08-01

conditions will necessarily be supercritical fluids . These temperatures and pressures will also cause the fuel to undergo pyrolytic reactions, which...Spectrometric Detection for 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER Analysis of Supercritical Fuels Pyrolysis Products 5b. GRANT NUMBER FA9550-05-1-0253 5c... supercritical pyrolysis experiments with the model fuels 1-methylnaphthalene and toluene. The HPLC/UV/MS instrument facilitated the identification of fifteen 5

Marangoni-induced symmetry-breaking pattern selection on viscous fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Li; Denner, Fabian; Morgan, Neal; van Wachem, Berend; Dini, Daniele

2016-11-01

Symmetry breaking transitions on curved surfaces are found in a wide range of dissipative systems, ranging from asymmetric cell divisions to structure formation in thin films. Inherent within the nonlinearities are the associated curvilinear geometry, the elastic stretching, bending and the various fluid dynamical processes. We present a generalised Swift-Hohenberg pattern selection theory on a thin, curved and viscous films in the presence of non-trivial Marangoni effect. Testing the theory with experiments on soap bubbles, we observe the film pattern selection to mimic that of the elastic wrinkling morphology on a curved elastic bilayer in regions of slow viscous flow. By examining the local state of damping of surface capillary waves we attempt to establish an equivalence between the Marangoni fluid dynamics and the nonlinear elastic shell theory above the critical wavenumber of the instabilities and propose a possible explanation for the perceived elastic-fluidic duality. The authors acknowledge the financial support of the Shell University Technology Centre for fuels and lubricants.

Injector having multiple fuel pegs

DOEpatents

Hadley, Mark Allan; Felling, David Kenton

2013-04-30

A fuel injector is provided, including a fuel injector body, a plurality of fuel vanes, and a plurality of fuel pegs. The injector body includes a manifold and an inlet. The manifold is configured for receiving fuel, and the inlet is configured for receiving air. The fuel vanes are located within the injector body and are positioned in a direction that is generally parallel with a longitudinal axis of the injector body to orient the air flowing from the inlet. The plurality of fuel pegs are fluidly connected to the manifold and are arranged within the plurality of fuel vanes. The plurality of fuel pegs are each spaced at a distance that is about equal between each of the plurality of fuel pegs.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis for the Reduction of Impeller Discharge Flow Distortion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garcia, R.; McConnaughey, P. K.; Eastland, A.

1993-01-01

The use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in the design and analysis of high performance rocket engine pumps has increased in recent years. This increase has been aided by the activities of the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Pump Stage Technology Team (PSTT). The team's goals include assessing the accuracy and efficiency of several methodologies and then applying the appropriate methodology(s) to understand and improve the flow inside a pump. The PSTT's objectives, team membership, and past activities are discussed in Garcia1 and Garcia2. The PSTT is one of three teams that form the NASA/MSFC CFD Consortium for Applications in Propulsion Technology (McConnaughey3). The PSTT first applied CFD in the design of the baseline consortium impeller. This impeller was designed for the Space Transportation Main Engine's (STME) fuel turbopump. The STME fuel pump was designed with three impeller stages because a two-stage design was deemed to pose a high developmental risk. The PSTT used CFD to design an impeller whose performance allowed for a two-stage STME fuel pump design. The availability of this design would have lead to a reduction in parts, weight, and cost had the STME reached production. One sample of the baseline consortium impeller was manufactured and tested in a water rig. The test data showed that the impeller performance was as predicted and that a two-stage design for the STME fuel pump was possible with minimal risk. The test data also verified another CFD predicted characteristic of the design that was not desirable. The classical 'jet-wake' pattern at the impeller discharge was strengthened by two aspects of the design: by the high head coefficient necessary for the required pressure rise and by the relatively few impeller exit blades, 12, necessary to reduce manufacturing cost. This 'jet-wake pattern produces an unsteady loading on the diffuser vanes and has, in past rocket engine programs, lead to diffuser structural failure. In industrial applications, this problem is typically avoided by increasing the space between the impeller and the diffuser to allow the dissipation of this pattern and, hence, the reduction of diffuser vane unsteady loading. This approach leads to small performance losses and, more importantly in rocket engine applications, to significant increases in the pump's size and weight. This latter consideration typically makes this approach unacceptable in high performance rocket engines.

DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS OF THE IDAHO NATIONAL LABORATORY HIGH-[TEMPERATURE GAS-COOLED TEST REACTOR

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sterbentz, James; Bayless, Paul; Strydom, Gerhard

A point design for a graphite-moderated, high-temperature, gas-cooled test reactor (HTG TR) has been developed by Idaho National Laboratory (INL) as part of a United States (U.S.) Department of Energy (DOE) initiative to explore and potentially expand the existing U.S. test reactor capabilities. This paper provides a summary of the design and its main attributes. The 200 MW HTG TR is a thermal-neutron spectrum reactor composed of hexagonal prismatic fuel and graphite reflector blocks. Twelve fuel columns (96 fuel blocks total and 6.34 m active core height) are arranged in two hexagonal rings to form a relatively compact, high-power density,more » annular core sandwiched between inner, outer, top, and bottom graphite reflectors. The HTG-TR is designed to operate at 7 MPa with a coolant inlet/outlet temperature of 325°C/650°C, and utilizes TRISO particle fuel from the DOE AGR Program with 425 ?m uranium oxycarbide (UCO) kernels and an enrichment of 15.5 wt% 235U. The primary mission of the HTG TR is material irradiation and therefore the core has been specifically designed and optimized to provide the highest possible thermal and fast neutron fluxes. The highest thermal neutron flux (3.90E+14 n/cm2s) occurs in the outer reflector, and the maximum fast flux levels (1.17E+14 n/cm2s) are produced in the central reflector column where most of the graphite has been removed. Due to high core temperatures under accident conditions, all the irradiation test facilities have been located in the inner and outer reflectors where fast flux levels decline. The core features a large number of irradiation positions with large test volumes and long test lengths, ideal for thermal neutron irradiation of large test articles. The total available test volume is more than 1100 liters. Up to four test loop facilities can be accommodated with pressure tube boundaries to isolate test articles and test fluids (e.g., liquid metal, liquid salt, light water) from the helium primary coolant system.« less

Hydrogen Fuel Capability Added to Combustor Flametube Rig

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frankenfield, Bruce J.

2003-01-01

Facility capabilities have been expanded at Test Cell 23, Research Combustor Lab (RCL23) at the NASA Glenn Research Center, with a new gaseous hydrogen fuel system. The purpose of this facility is to test a variety of fuel nozzle and flameholder hardware configurations for use in aircraft combustors. Previously, this facility only had jet fuel available to perform these various combustor flametube tests. The new hydrogen fuel system will support the testing and development of aircraft combustors with zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Research information generated from this test rig includes combustor emissions and performance data via gas sampling probes and emissions measuring equipment. The new gaseous hydrogen system is being supplied from a 70 000-standard-ft3 tube trailer at flow rates up to 0.05 lb/s (maximum). The hydrogen supply pressure is regulated, and the flow is controlled with a -in. remotely operated globe valve. Both a calibrated subsonic venturi and a coriolis mass flowmeter are used to measure flow. Safety concerns required the placement of all hydrogen connections within purge boxes, each of which contains a small nitrogen flow that is vented past a hydrogen detector. If any hydrogen leaks occur, the hydrogen detectors alert the operators and automatically safe the facility. Facility upgrades and modifications were also performed on other fluids systems, including the nitrogen gas, cooling water, and air systems. RCL23 can provide nonvitiated heated air to the research combustor, up to 350 psig at 1200 F and 3.0 lb/s. Significant modernization of the facility control systems and the data acquisition systems was completed. A flexible control architecture was installed that allows quick changes of research configurations. The labor-intensive hardware interface has been removed and changed to a software-based system. In addition, the operation of this facility has been greatly enhanced with new software programming and graphic operator interface stations. Glenn s RCL23 facility systems were successfully checked out in the spring of 2002, and hydrogen combustor research testing began in the summer of 2002.

Breakdown voltage determination of gaseous and near cryogenic fluids with application to rocket engine ignition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nugent, Nicholas Jeremy

Liquid rocket engines extensively use spark-initiated torch igniters for ignition. As the focus shifts to longer missions that require multiple starts of the main engines, there exists a need to solve the significant problems associated with using spark-initiated devices. Improving the fundamental understanding of predicting the required breakdown voltage in rocket environments along with reducing electrical noise is necessary to ensure that missions can be completed successfully. To better understand spark ignition systems and add to the fundamental research on spark development in rocket applications, several parameter categories of interest were hypothesized to affect breakdown voltage: (i) fluid, (ii) electrode, and (iii) electrical. The fluid properties varied were pressure, temperature, density and mass flow rate. Electrode materials, insert electrode angle and spark gap distance were the electrode properties varied. Polarity was the electrical property investigated. Testing how breakdown voltage is affected by each parameter was conducted using three different isolated insert electrodes fabricated from copper and nickel. A spark plug commonly used in torch igniters was the other electrode. A continuous output power source connected to a large impedance source and capacitance provided the pulsing potential. Temperature, pressure and high voltage measurements were recorded for the 418 tests that were successfully completed. Nitrogen, being inert and similar to oxygen, a propellant widely used in torch igniters, was used as the fluid for the majority of testing. There were 68 tests completed with oxygen and 45 with helium. A regression of the nitrogen data produced a correction coefficient to Paschen's Law that predicts the breakdown voltage to within 3000 volts, better than 20%, compared to an over prediction on the order of 100,000 volts using Paschen's Law. The correction coefficient is based on the parameters most influencing breakdown voltage: fluid density, spark gap distance, electrode angles, electrode materials and polarity. The research added to the fundamental knowledge of spark development in rocket ignition applications by determining the parameters that most influence breakdown voltage. Some improvements to the research should include better temperature measurements near the spark gap, additional testing with oxygen and testing with fuels of interest such as hydrogen and methane.

Variable area fuel cell cooling

DOEpatents

Kothmann, Richard E.

1982-01-01

A fuel cell arrangement having cooling fluid flow passages which vary in surface area from the inlet to the outlet of the passages. A smaller surface area is provided at the passage inlet, which increases toward the passage outlet, so as to provide more uniform cooling of the entire fuel cell. The cooling passages can also be spaced from one another in an uneven fashion.

Fuel cell system configurations

DOEpatents

Kothmann, Richard E.; Cyphers, Joseph A.

1981-01-01

Fuel cell stack configurations having elongated polygonal cross-sectional shapes and gaskets at the peripheral faces to which flow manifolds are sealingly affixed. Process channels convey a fuel and an oxidant through longer channels, and a cooling fluid is conveyed through relatively shorter cooling passages. The polygonal structure preferably includes at least two right angles, and the faces of the stack are arranged in opposite parallel pairs.

Fiber length and orientation prevent migration in fluid filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reiman, P. A.

1966-01-01

Stainless steel fiber web filter resists fiber migration which causes contamination of filtered fluids. This filter is capable of holding five times more particulate matter before arbitrary cutoff pressure drop and shows excellent retention in fuel flow at high rates.

Computer simulation to predict energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and costs for production of fluid milk using alternative processing methods

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Computer simulation is a useful tool for benchmarking the electrical and fuel energy consumption and water use in a fluid milk plant. In this study, a computer simulation model of the fluid milk process based on high temperature short time (HTST) pasteurization was extended to include models for pr...

Boiler using combustible fluid

DOEpatents

Baumgartner, H.; Meier, J.G.

1974-07-03

A fluid fuel boiler is described comprising a combustion chamber, a cover on the combustion chamber having an opening for introducing a combustion-supporting gaseous fluid through said openings, means to impart rotation to the gaseous fluid about an axis of the combustion chamber, a burner for introducing a fluid fuel into the chamber mixed with the gaseous fluid for combustion thereof, the cover having a generally frustro-conical configuration diverging from the opening toward the interior of the chamber at an angle of between 15/sup 0/ and 55/sup 0/; means defining said combustion chamber having means defining a plurality of axial hot gas flow paths from a downstream portion of the combustion chamber to flow hot gases into an upstream portion of the combustion chamber, and means for diverting some of the hot gas flow along paths in a direction circumferentially of the combustion chamber, with the latter paths being immersed in the water flow path thereby to improve heat transfer and terminating in a gas outlet, the combustion chamber comprising at least one modular element, joined axially to the frustro-conical cover and coaxial therewith. The modular element comprises an inner ring and means of defining the circumferential, radial, and spiral flow paths of the hot gases.

Development and Experimental Benchmark of Simulations to Predict Used Nuclear Fuel Cladding Temperatures during Drying and Transfer Operations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Greiner, Miles

Radial hydride formation in high-burnup used fuel cladding has the potential to radically reduce its ductility and suitability for long-term storage and eventual transport. To avoid this formation, the maximum post-reactor temperature must remain sufficiently low to limit the cladding hoop stress, and so that hydrogen from the existing circumferential hydrides will not dissolve and become available to re-precipitate into radial hydrides under the slow cooling conditions during drying, transfer and early dry-cask storage. The objective of this research is to develop and experimentallybenchmark computational fluid dynamics simulations of heat transfer in post-pool-storage drying operations, when high-burnup fuel cladding ismore » likely to experience its highest temperature. These benchmarked tools can play a key role in evaluating dry cask storage systems for extended storage of high-burnup fuels and post-storage transportation, including fuel retrievability. The benchmarked tools will be used to aid the design of efficient drying processes, as well as estimate variations of surface temperatures as a means of inferring helium integrity inside the canister or cask. This work will be conducted effectively because the principal investigator has experience developing these types of simulations, and has constructed a test facility that can be used to benchmark them.« less

Paper-based enzymatic microfluidic fuel cell: From a two-stream flow device to a single-stream lateral flow strip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González-Guerrero, Maria José; del Campo, F. Javier; Esquivel, Juan Pablo; Giroud, Fabien; Minteer, Shelley D.; Sabaté, Neus

2016-09-01

This work presents a first approach towards the development of a cost-effective enzymatic paper-based glucose/O2 microfluidic fuel cell in which fluid transport is based on capillary action. A first fuel cell configuration consists of a Y-shaped paper device with the fuel and the oxidant flowing in parallel over carbon paper electrodes modified with bioelectrocatalytic enzymes. The anode consists of a ferrocenium-based polyethyleneimine polymer linked to glucose oxidase (GOx/Fc-C6-LPEI), while the cathode contains a mixture of laccase, anthracene-modified multiwall carbon nanotubes, and tetrabutylammonium bromide-modified Nafion (MWCNTs/laccase/TBAB-Nafion). Subsequently, the Y-shaped configuration is improved to use a single solution containing both, the anolyte and the catholyte. Thus, the electrolytes pHs of the fuel and the oxidant solutions are adapted to an intermediate pH of 5.5. Finally, the fuel cell is run with this single solution obtaining a maximum open circuit of 0.55 ± 0.04 V and a maximum current and power density of 225 ± 17 μA cm-2 and 24 ± 5 μW cm-2, respectively. Hence, a power source closer to a commercial application (similar to conventional lateral flow test strips) is developed and successfully operated. This system can be used to supply the energy required to power microelectronics demanding low power consumption.

Vertical feed stick wood fuel burning furnace system

DOEpatents

Hill, Richard C.

1982-01-01

A stove or furnace for efficient combustion of wood fuel includes a vertical feed combustion chamber (15) for receiving and supporting wood fuel in a vertical attitude or stack. A major upper portion of the combustion chamber column comprises a water jacket (14) for coupling to a source of water or heat transfer fluid for convection circulation of the fluid. The locus (31) of wood fuel combustion is thereby confined to the refractory base of the combustion chamber. A flue gas propagation delay channel (34) extending laterally from the base of the chamber affords delayed travel time in a high temperature refractory environment sufficient to assure substantially complete combustion of the gaseous products of wood burning with forced air prior to extraction of heat in heat exchanger (16). Induced draft draws the fuel gas and air mixture laterally through the combustion chamber and refractory high temperature zone to the heat exchanger and flue. Also included are active sources of forced air and induced draft, multiple circuit couplings for the recovered heat, and construction features in the refractory material substructure and metal component superstructure.

Dissolver vessel bottom assembly

DOEpatents

Kilian, Douglas C.

1976-01-01

An improved bottom assembly is provided for a nuclear reactor fuel reprocessing dissolver vessel wherein fuel elements are dissolved as the initial step in recovering fissile material from spent fuel rods. A shock-absorbing crash plate with a convex upper surface is disposed at the bottom of the dissolver vessel so as to provide an annular space between the crash plate and the dissolver vessel wall. A sparging ring is disposed within the annular space to enable a fluid discharged from the sparging ring to agitate the solids which deposit on the bottom of the dissolver vessel and accumulate in the annular space. An inlet tangential to the annular space permits a fluid pumped into the annular space through the inlet to flush these solids from the dissolver vessel through tangential outlets oppositely facing the inlet. The sparging ring is protected against damage from the impact of fuel elements being charged to the dissolver vessel by making the crash plate of such a diameter that the width of the annular space between the crash plate and the vessel wall is less than the diameter of the fuel elements.

Minimally refined biomass fuel

DOEpatents

Pearson, Richard K.; Hirschfeld, Tomas B.

1984-01-01

A minimally refined fluid composition, suitable as a fuel mixture and derived from biomass material, is comprised of one or more water-soluble carbohydrates such as sucrose, one or more alcohols having less than four carbons, and water. The carbohydrate provides the fuel source; water solubilizes the carbohydrates; and the alcohol aids in the combustion of the carbohydrate and reduces the vicosity of the carbohydrate/water solution. Because less energy is required to obtain the carbohydrate from the raw biomass than alcohol, an overall energy savings is realized compared to fuels employing alcohol as the primary fuel.

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps, fuel oil unit pumps, and fans in the ventilation systems serving machinery and cargo spaces shall be...

Insertable fluid flow passage bridgepiece and method

DOEpatents

Jones, Daniel O.

2000-01-01

A fluid flow passage bridgepiece for insertion into an open-face fluid flow channel of a fluid flow plate is provided. The bridgepiece provides a sealed passage from a columnar fluid flow manifold to the flow channel, thereby preventing undesirable leakage into and out of the columnar fluid flow manifold. When deployed in the various fluid flow plates that are used in a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell, bridgepieces of this invention prevent mixing of reactant gases, leakage of coolant or humidification water, and occlusion of the fluid flow channel by gasket material. The invention also provides a fluid flow plate assembly including an insertable bridgepiece, a fluid flow plate adapted for use with an insertable bridgepiece, and a method of manufacturing a fluid flow plate with an insertable fluid flow passage bridgepiece.

Applicability of grid-net detection system for landfill leachate and diesel fuel release in the subsurface.

PubMed

Oh, Myounghak; Seo, Min Woo; Lee, Seunghak; Park, Junboum

2008-02-19

The grid-net system estimating the electrical conductivity changes was evaluated as a potential detection system for the leakage of diesel fuel and landfill leachate. Aspects of electrical conductivity changes were varied upon the type of contaminant. The electrical conductivity in the homogeneous mixtures of soil and landfill leachate linearly increased with the ionic concentration of pore fluid, which became more significant at higher volumetric water contents. However, the electrical conductivity in soil/diesel fuel mixture decreased with diesel fuel content and it was more significant at lower water contents. The electrode spacing should be determined by considering the type of contaminant to enhance the electrode sensitivity especially when two-electrode sensors are to be used. The electrode sensitivity for landfill leachate was constantly maintained regardless of the electrode spacings while that for the diesel fuel significantly increased at smaller electrode spacings. This is possibly due to the fact that the insulating barrier effect of the diesel fuel in non-aqueous phase was less predominant at large electrode spacing because electrical current can form the round-about paths over the volume with relatively small diesel fuel content. The model test results showed that the grid-net detection system can be used to monitor the leakage from waste landfill and underground storage tank sites. However, for a successful application of the detection system in the field, data under various field conditions should be accumulated.

Propellant Chemistry for CFD Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farmer, R. C.; Anderson, P. G.; Cheng, Gary C.

1996-01-01

Current concepts for reusable launch vehicle design have created renewed interest in the use of RP-1 fuels for high pressure and tri-propellant propulsion systems. Such designs require the use of an analytical technology that accurately accounts for the effects of real fluid properties, combustion of large hydrocarbon fuel modules, and the possibility of soot formation. These effects are inadequately treated in current computational fluid dynamic (CFD) codes used for propulsion system analyses. The objective of this investigation is to provide an accurate analytical description of hydrocarbon combustion thermodynamics and kinetics that is sufficiently computationally efficient to be a practical design tool when used with CFD codes such as the FDNS code. A rigorous description of real fluid properties for RP-1 and its combustion products will be derived from the literature and from experiments conducted in this investigation. Upon the establishment of such a description, the fluid description will be simplified by using the minimum of empiricism necessary to maintain accurate combustion analyses and including such empirical models into an appropriate CFD code. An additional benefit of this approach is that the real fluid properties analysis simplifies the introduction of the effects of droplet sprays into the combustion model. Typical species compositions of RP-1 have been identified, surrogate fuels have been established for analyses, and combustion and sooting reaction kinetics models have been developed. Methods for predicting the necessary real fluid properties have been developed and essential experiments have been designed. Verification studies are in progress, and preliminary results from these studies will be presented. The approach has been determined to be feasible, and upon its completion the required methodology for accurate performance and heat transfer CFD analyses for high pressure, tri-propellant propulsion systems will be available.

A Safe, Self-Calibrating, Wireless System for Measuring Volume of Any Fuel at Non-Horizontal Orientation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodward, Stanley E.; Taylor, Bryant D.

2010-01-01

A system for wirelessly measuring the volume of fluid in tanks at non-horizontal orientation is predicated upon two technologies developed at Langley Research Center. The first is a magnetic field response recorder that powers and interrogates magnetic field response sensors [ Magnetic Field Response Measurement Acquisition System, (LAR-16908), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 30, No. 6 (June 2006), page 28]. Magnetic field response sensors are a class of sensors that are powered via oscillating magnetic fields and when electrically active respond with their own magnetic fields whose attributes are dependent upon the magnitude of the physical quantity being measured. The response recorder facilitates the use of the second technology, which is a magnetic field response fluid-level sensor ["Wireless Fluid- Level Sensors for Harsh Environments," (LAR-17155), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 33, No. 4 (April 2009), page 30]. The method for powering and interrogating the sensors allows them to be completely encased in materials (Fig. 1) that are chemically resilient to the fluid being measured, thereby facilitating measurement of substances (e.g., acids, petroleum, cryogenic, caustic, and the like) that would normally destroy electronic circuitry. When the sensors are encapsulated, no fluid (or fluid vapor) is exposed to any electrical component of the measurement system. There is no direct electrical line from the vehicle or plant power into a fuel container. The means of interrogating and powering the sensors can be completely physically and electrically isolated from the fuel and vapors by placing the sensor on the other side of an electrically non-conductive bulkhead (Fig. 2). These features prevent the interrogation system and its electrical components from becoming an ignition source.

3-D CFD Simulation and Validation of Oxygen-Rich Hydrocarbon Combustion in a Gas-Centered Swirl Coaxial Injector using a Flamelet-Based Approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richardson, Brian; Kenny, Jeremy

2015-01-01

Injector design is a critical part of the development of a rocket Thrust Chamber Assembly (TCA). Proper detailed injector design can maximize propulsion efficiency while minimizing the potential for failures in the combustion chamber. Traditional design and analysis methods for hydrocarbon-fuel injector elements are based heavily on empirical data and models developed from heritage hardware tests. Using this limited set of data produces challenges when trying to design a new propulsion system where the operating conditions may greatly differ from heritage applications. Time-accurate, Three-Dimensional (3-D) Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling of combusting flows inside of injectors has long been a goal of the fluid analysis group at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and the larger CFD modeling community. CFD simulation can provide insight into the design and function of an injector that cannot be obtained easily through testing or empirical comparisons to existing hardware. However, the traditional finite-rate chemistry modeling approach utilized to simulate combusting flows for complex fuels, such as Rocket Propellant-2 (RP-2), is prohibitively expensive and time consuming even with a large amount of computational resources. MSFC has been working, in partnership with Streamline Numerics, Inc., to develop a computationally efficient, flamelet-based approach for modeling complex combusting flow applications. In this work, a flamelet modeling approach is used to simulate time-accurate, 3-D, combusting flow inside a single Gas Centered Swirl Coaxial (GCSC) injector using the flow solver, Loci-STREAM. CFD simulations were performed for several different injector geometries. Results of the CFD analysis helped guide the design of the injector from an initial concept to a tested prototype. The results of the CFD analysis are compared to data gathered from several hot-fire, single element injector tests performed in the Air Force Research Lab EC-1 test facility located at Edwards Air Force Base.

Do We Really Become Smarter When Our Fluid-Intelligence Test Scores Improve?

PubMed Central

Hayes, Taylor R.; Petrov, Alexander A.; Sederberg, Per B.

2014-01-01

Recent reports of training-induced gains on fluid intelligence tests have fueled an explosion of interest in cognitive training—now a billion-dollar industry. The interpretation of these results is questionable because score gains can be dominated by factors that play marginal roles in the scores themselves, and because intelligence gain is not the only possible explanation for the observed control-adjusted far transfer across tasks. Here we present novel evidence that the test score gains used to measure the efficacy of cognitive training may reflect strategy refinement instead of intelligence gains. A novel scanpath analysis of eye movement data from 35 participants solving Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices on two separate sessions indicated that one-third of the variance of score gains could be attributed to test-taking strategy alone, as revealed by characteristic changes in eye-fixation patterns. When the strategic contaminant was partialled out, the residual score gains were no longer significant. These results are compatible with established theories of skill acquisition suggesting that procedural knowledge tacitly acquired during training can later be utilized at posttest. Our novel method and result both underline a reason to be wary of purported intelligence gains, but also provide a way forward for testing for them in the future. PMID:25395695

Testing of a Microfluidic Sampling System for High Temperature Electrochemical MC&A

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pereira, Candido; Nichols, Kevin

2013-11-27

This report describes the preliminary validation of a high-temperature microfluidic chip system for sampling of electrochemical process salt. Electroanalytical and spectroscopic techniques are attractive candidates for improvement through high-throughput sample analysis via miniaturization. Further, microfluidic chip systems are amenable to micro-scale chemical processing such as rapid, automated sample purification to improve sensor performance. The microfluidic chip was tested to determine the feasibility of the system for high temperature applications and conditions under which microfluidic systems can be used to generate salt droplets at process temperature to support development of material balance and control systems in a used fuel treatment facility.more » In FY13, the project focused on testing a quartz microchip device with molten salts at near process temperatures. The equipment was installed in glove box and tested up to 400°C using commercial thermal transfer fluids as the carrier phase. Preliminary tests were carried out with a low-melting halide salt to initially characterize the properties of this novel liquid-liquid system and to investigate the operating regimes for inducing droplet flow within candidate carrier fluids. Initial results show that the concept is viable for high temperature sampling but further development is required to optimize the system to operate with process relevant molten salts.« less

Do We Really Become Smarter When Our Fluid-Intelligence Test Scores Improve?

PubMed

Hayes, Taylor R; Petrov, Alexander A; Sederberg, Per B

2015-01-01

Recent reports of training-induced gains on fluid intelligence tests have fueled an explosion of interest in cognitive training-now a billion-dollar industry. The interpretation of these results is questionable because score gains can be dominated by factors that play marginal roles in the scores themselves, and because intelligence gain is not the only possible explanation for the observed control-adjusted far transfer across tasks. Here we present novel evidence that the test score gains used to measure the efficacy of cognitive training may reflect strategy refinement instead of intelligence gains. A novel scanpath analysis of eye movement data from 35 participants solving Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices on two separate sessions indicated that one-third of the variance of score gains could be attributed to test-taking strategy alone, as revealed by characteristic changes in eye-fixation patterns. When the strategic contaminant was partialled out, the residual score gains were no longer significant. These results are compatible with established theories of skill acquisition suggesting that procedural knowledge tacitly acquired during training can later be utilized at posttest. Our novel method and result both underline a reason to be wary of purported intelligence gains, but also provide a way forward for testing for them in the future.

NEUTRONIC REACTOR SHIELD AND SPACER CONSTRUCTION

DOEpatents

Wigner, E.P.; Ohlinger, L.A.

1958-11-18

Reactors of the heterogeneous, graphite moderated, fluid cooled type and shielding and spacing plugs for the coolant channels thereof are reported. In this design, the coolant passages extend horizontally through the moderator structure, accommodating the fuel elements in abutting end-to-end relationship, and have access openings through the outer shield at one face of the reactor to facilitate loading of the fuel elements. In the outer ends of the channels which extend through the shields are provided spacers and shielding plugs designed to offer minimal reslstance to coolant fluid flow while preventing emanation of harmful radiation through the access openings when closed between loadings.

The WSTIAC Quarterly. Volume 9, Number 3

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-25

program .[8] THE THORIUM FUEL CYCLE AND LFTR POWER PLANT The thorium fuel cycle is based on a series of neutron absorp- tion and beta decay processes...the fig- ure is a graphite matrix moderated MSR reactor with fuel salt mixture (ThF4-U233F4) being circulated by a pump through the core and to a...the core as purified salt. As one of the unique safety features, a melt-plug at the reactor bottom would permit the reactor fluid fuel to be drained

Process for producing biodiesel, lubricants, and fuel and lubricant additives in a critical fluid medium

DOEpatents

Ginosar, Daniel M.; Fox, Robert V.

2005-05-03

A process for producing alkyl esters useful in biofuels and lubricants by transesterifying glyceride- or esterifying free fatty acid-containing substances in a single critical phase medium is disclosed. The critical phase medium provides increased reaction rates, decreases the loss of catalyst or catalyst activity and improves the overall yield of desired product. The process involves the steps of dissolving an input glyceride- or free fatty acid-containing substance with an alcohol or water into a critical fluid medium; reacting the glyceride- or free fatty acid-containing substance with the alcohol or water input over either a solid or liquid acidic or basic catalyst and sequentially separating the products from each other and from the critical fluid medium, which critical fluid medium can then be recycled back in the process. The process significantly reduces the cost of producing additives or alternatives to automotive fuels and lubricants utilizing inexpensive glyceride- or free fatty acid-containing substances, such as animal fats, vegetable oils, rendered fats, and restaurant grease.

Transonic flow theory of airfoils and wings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garabedian, P. R.

1976-01-01

There are plans to use the supercritical wing on the next generation of commercial aircraft so as to economize on fuel consumption by reducing drag. Computer codes have served well in meeting the consequent demand for new wing sections. The possibility of replacing wind tunnel tests by computational fluid dynamics is discussed. Another approach to the supercritical wing is through shockless airfoils. A novel boundary value problem in the hodograph plane is studied that enables one to design a shockless airfoil so that its pressure distribution very nearly takes on data that are prescribed.

Autothermal and partial oxidation reformer-based fuel processor, method for improving catalyst function in autothermal and partial oxidation reformer-based processors

DOEpatents

Ahmed, Shabbir; Papadias, Dionissios D.; Lee, Sheldon H. D.; Ahluwalia, Rajesh K.

2013-01-08

The invention provides a fuel processor comprising a linear flow structure having an upstream portion and a downstream portion; a first catalyst supported at the upstream portion; and a second catalyst supported at the downstream portion, wherein the first catalyst is in fluid communication with the second catalyst. Also provided is a method for reforming fuel, the method comprising contacting the fuel to an oxidation catalyst so as to partially oxidize the fuel and generate heat; warming incoming fuel with the heat while simultaneously warming a reforming catalyst with the heat; and reacting the partially oxidized fuel with steam using the reforming catalyst.

Solids feed nozzle for fluidized bed

DOEpatents

Zielinski, Edward A.

1982-01-01

The vertical fuel pipe of a fluidized bed extends up through the perforated support structure of the bed to discharge granulated solid fuel into the expanded bed. A cap, as a deflecting structure, is supported above the discharge of the fuel pipe and is shaped and arranged to divert the carrier fluid and granulated fuel into the combusting bed. The diverter structure is spaced above the end of the fuel pipe and provided with a configuration on its underside to form a venturi section which generates a low pressure in the stream into which the granules of solid fuel are drawn to lengthen their residence time in the combustion zone of the bed adjacent the fuel pipe.

Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Pressure Drop in Silicon Carbide Fuel Rod for Application in Pressurized Water Reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abir, Ahmed Musafi

Spacer grids are used in Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs) fuel assemblies which enhances heat transfer from fuel rods. However, there remain regions of low turbulence in between the spacer grids. To enhance turbulence in these regions surface roughness is applied on the fuel rod walls. Meyer [1] used empirical correlations to predict heat transfer and friction factor for artificially roughened fuel rod bundles at High Performance Light Water Reactors (LWRs). Their applicability was tested by Carrilho at University of South Carolina's (USC) Single Heated Element Loop Tester (SHELT). He attained a heat transfer and friction factor enhancement of 50% and 45% respectively, using Inconel nuclear fuel rods with square transverse ribbed surface. Following him Najeeb conducted a similar study due to three dimensional diamond shaped blocks in turbulent flow. He recorded a maximum heat transfer enhancement of 83%. At present, several types of materials are being used for fuel rod cladding including Zircaloy, Uranium oxide, etc. But researchers are actively searching for new material that can be a more practical alternative. Silicon Carbide (SiC) has been identified as a material of interest for application as fuel rod cladding [2]. The current study deals with the experimental investigation to find out the friction factor increase of a SiC fuel rod with 3D surface roughness. The SiC rod was tested at USC's SHELT loop. The experiment was conducted in turbulent flowing Deionized (DI) water at steady state conditions. Measurements of Flow rate and pressure drop were made. The experimental results were also validated by Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis in ANSYS Fluent. To simplify the CFD analysis and to save computational resources the 3D roughness was approximated as a 2D one. The friction factor results of the CFD investigation was found to lie within +/-8% of the experimental results. A CFD model was also run with the energy equation turned on, and a heat generation of 8 kW applied to the rod. A maximum heat transfer enhancement of 18.4% was achieved at the highest flow rate investigated (i.e. Re=109204).

Apparatus for mixing fuel in a gas turbine nozzle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Barker, Carl Robert

A fuel nozzle in a combustion turbine engine that includes: a fuel plenum defined between an circumferentially extending shroud and axially by a forward tube-sheet and an aft tube-sheet; and a mixing-tube that extends across the fuel plenum that defines a passageway connecting an inlet formed through the forward tube-sheet and an outlet formed through the aft tube-sheet, the mixing-tube comprising one or more fuel ports that fluidly communicate with the fuel plenum. The mixing-tube may include grooves on an outer surface, and be attached to the forward tube-sheet by a connection having a fail-safe leakage path.

Nuclear fuel particles and method of making nuclear fuel compacts therefrom

DOEpatents

DeVelasco, Rubin I.; Adams, Charles C.

1991-01-01

Methods for making nuclear fuel compacts exhibiting low heavy metal contamination and fewer defective coatings following compact fabrication from a mixture of hardenable binder, such as petroleum pitch, and nuclear fuel particles having multiple layer fission-product-retentive coatings, with the dense outermost layer of the fission-product-retentive coating being surrounded by a protective overcoating, e.g., pyrocarbon having a density between about 1 and 1.3 g/cm.sup.3. Such particles can be pre-compacted in molds under relatively high pressures and then combined with a fluid binder which is ultimately carbonized to produce carbonaceous nuclear fuel compacts having relatively high fuel loadings.

Assessment of the Potential Impact of Combustion Research on Internal Combustion Engine Emission and Fuel Consumption

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1979-01-01

A review of the present level of understanding of the basic thermodynamic, fluid dynamic, and chemical kinetic processes which affect the fuel economy and levels of pollutant exhaust products of Diesel, Stratified Charge, and Spark Ignition engines i...

40 CFR 60.661 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (such as reboiler, condenser, vacuum pump, steam jet, etc.), plus any associated recovery system. Flame.... Process heater means a device that transfers heat liberated by burning fuel to fluids contained in tubes... chemicals in § 60.667. A process unit can operate independently if supplied with sufficient fuel or raw...

Systems and methods for preventing flashback in a combustor assembly

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Johnson, Thomas Edward; Ziminsky, Willy Steve; Stevenson, Christian Xavier

2016-04-05

Embodiments of the present application include a combustor assembly. The combustor assembly may include a combustion chamber, a first plenum, a second plenum, and one or more elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes. Each of the elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes may include a first length at least partially disposed within the first plenum and configured to receive a first fluid from the first plenum. Moreover, each of the elongate air/fuel premixing injection tubes may include a second length disposed downstream of the first length and at least partially disposed within the second plenum. The second length may be formed ofmore » a porous wall configured to allow a second fluid from the second plenum to enter the second length and create a boundary layer about the porous wall.« less

A novel approach to model the transient behavior of solid-oxide fuel cell stacks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Menon, Vikram; Janardhanan, Vinod M.; Tischer, Steffen; Deutschmann, Olaf

2012-09-01

This paper presents a novel approach to model the transient behavior of solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stacks in two and three dimensions. A hierarchical model is developed by decoupling the temperature of the solid phase from the fluid phase. The solution of the temperature field is considered as an elliptic problem, while each channel within the stack is modeled as a marching problem. This paper presents the numerical model and cluster algorithm for coupling between the solid phase and fluid phase. For demonstration purposes, results are presented for a stack operated on pre-reformed hydrocarbon fuel. Transient response to load changes is studied by introducing step changes in cell potential and current. Furthermore, the effect of boundary conditions and stack materials on response time and internal temperature distribution is investigated.

High-durability catalytic electrode composed of Pt nanoparticle-supported carbon nanowalls synthesized by radical-injection plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Imai, Shun; Kondo, Hiroki; Cho, Hyungjun; Kano, Hiroyuki; Ishikawa, Kenji; Sekine, Makoto; Hiramatsu, Mineo; Ito, Masafumi; Hori, Masaru

2017-10-01

For polymer electrolyte fuel cell applications, carbon nanowalls (CNWs) were synthesized by radical-injection plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition, and a high density of Pt nanoparticles (>1012 cm-2) was supported on the CNWs using a supercritical fluid deposition system. The high potential cycle tests were applied and the electrochemical surface area of the Pt nanoparticle-supported CNWs did not change significantly, even after 20 000 high potential cycles. According to transmission electron microscopy observations, the mean diameter of Pt changed slightly after the cycle tests, while the crystallinity of the CNWs evaluated using Raman spectroscopy showed almost no change.

Ignition of combustible fluids by heated surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bennett, Joseph Michael

The ignition of flammable fluids leaking onto hot machinery components is a common cause of fires and property loss to society. For example, the U.S. Air Force has over 100 engine fires per year. There is a comparable number in the civilian air fleet. Many of these fires are due to ruptured fuel, oil or hydraulic lines impinging on hot engine components. Also, over 500,000 vehicle fires occur each year on U.S. roads. Many of these are due to leaking fluids onto hot exhaust manifolds or other exhaust components. The design of fire protection systems for aircraft and road vehicles must take into account the problems of hot surface ignition as well as re-ignition that can occur once the fire is initially extinguished. The lack of understanding of ignition and re-ignition results in heavy, high-capacity fire extinguishers to address the fire threat. It is desired to better understand the mechanisms that control this phenomenon, and exploit this understanding in producing machinery designs that can mitigate this threat. The purpose of this effort is to gain a fundamental understanding of ignition by heated surfaces. This is done by performing experimental measurements on the impingement of vertical streams of combustible fluids onto horizontal heated surfaces, and then determine the mechanisms that control the process, in terms of physical, controllable parameters (such as fuel type, flow rate and surface temperature). An initial exhaustive review of the literature revealed a small sample of pertinent findings of previous investigators, focused on droplet ignition. Boiling modes present during contact with the heated surface were also shown to control evaporation rates and ignition delays, in addition to surface temperatures and fluid properties. An experimental apparatus was designed and constructed to create the scenario of interest in a controllable fashion, with a 20 cm horizontal heated plate with variable heating supply. Fuels were applied as streams ranging from 0.67 ml/sec to 9.5 ml/sec. Heptane, hexadecane, dodecane and kerosene were the fuels investigated in the study, and experiments were performed over a range of surface temperatures. Of the 388 fuel impingement experiments performed, 226 resulted in ignition events. Of these, 124 were classified as "airborne" ignitions, where spontaneous ignition occurred up to 60 cm above the surface. A model was derived as a predictor of ignition delays observed in these experiments, based upon a fuel evaporation rate-dominated process. This model, which utilized information derived from prior Nusselt number heat transfer correlations and simple plume models, exhibited a high degree of successful correlation with experimental data. This model was sufficiently robust to be applied to all the fuels studied, and all boiling modes (nucleate, transition and boiling) and flow rates. This facilitated a means of predicting ignition delay times based upon fundamental operating parameters of fuel type, flow rate and surface temperature, and assist in the design of fire-safe systems.

Application of computational fluid dynamics for the simulation of cryogenic molecular sieve bed absorber of hydrogen isotopes recovery system for Indian LLCB-TBM

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gayathri Devi, V.; Sircar, A.; Sarkar, B.

One of the most challenging tasks in the design of the fuel cycle system lies in the effective design of Tritium Extraction System (TES) which involves proper extraction and purification of tritium in the fuel cycle of the fusion reactor. Indian Lead Lithium cooled Ceramic Breeder Test Blanket Module (LLCB-TBM) would extract hydrogen isotopes through Cryogenic Molecular Sieve Bed (CMSB) adsorber system. A prototype Hydrogen Isotopes Recovery System (HIRS) is being developed to validate the concepts for tritium extraction by adsorption mass transfer mechanism. In this study, a design model has been developed and analyzed to simulate the adsorption massmore » transfer kinetics in a fixed bed adsorption column. The simulation leads primarily to effective design of HIRS, which is a state-of-the-art technology. The paper describes the process simulation approach and the results of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. The effects of different operating conditions are studied to investigate their influence on the hydrogen isotopes adsorption capacity. The results of the present simulation study would be used to understand the best optimized transport phenomenon before realizing the TES as a system for LLCB-TBM. (authors)« less

A comprehensive model to determine the effects of temperature and species fluctuations on reaction rates in turbulent reacting flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chinitz, W.

1986-01-01

A computationally-viable model describing the interaction between fluid-mechanical turbulence and finite-rate combustion reactions, principally in high-speed flows was developed. Chemical kinetic mechanisms, complete and global, were developed describing the finite rate reaction of fuels of interest to NASA. These fuels included principally hydrogen and silane, although a limited amount of work involved hydrocarbon fuels as well.

Fuel cell stack arrangements

DOEpatents

Kothmann, Richard E.; Somers, Edward V.

1982-01-01

Arrangements of stacks of fuel cells and ducts, for fuel cells operating with separate fuel, oxidant and coolant streams. An even number of stacks are arranged generally end-to-end in a loop. Ducts located at the juncture of consecutive stacks of the loop feed oxidant or fuel to or from the two consecutive stacks, each individual duct communicating with two stacks. A coolant fluid flows from outside the loop, into and through cooling channels of the stack, and is discharged into an enclosure duct formed within the loop by the stacks and seals at the junctures at the stacks.

Oil cooling system for a gas turbine engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coffinberry, G. A.; Kast, H. B. (Inventor)

1977-01-01

A gas turbine engine fuel delivery and control system is provided with means to recirculate all fuel in excess of fuel control requirements back to aircraft fuel tank, thereby increasing the fuel pump heat sink and decreasing the pump temperature rise without the addition of valving other than that normally employed. A fuel/oil heat exchanger and associated circuitry is provided to maintain the hot engine oil in heat exchange relationship with the cool engine fuel. Where anti-icing of the fuel filter is required, means are provided to maintain the fuel temperature entering the filter at or above a minimum level to prevent freezing thereof. Fluid circuitry is provided to route hot engine oil through a plurality of heat exchangers disposed within the system to provide for selective cooling of the oil.

Development of Advanced Fuel Cell System (Phase 4)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyer, A. P.; Bell, W. F.

1976-01-01

A multiple-task research and development program was performed to improve the weight, life, and performance characteristics of hydrogen-oxygen alkaline fuel cells for advanced power systems. During Phase 4, the lowest stabilized degradation rate observed in all the testing completed during four phases of the program, 1 microvolt/hour, was demonstrated. This test continues after 5,000 hours of operation. The cell incorporates a PPf anode, a 90Au/10Pt cathode, a hybrid frame, and a Fybex matrix. These elements were developed under this program to extend cell life. The result demonstrated that the 80Au/20Pt cathode is as stable as a 90Au/10Pt cathode of twice the precious metal loading, was confirmed in full-scale cells. A hybrid frame two-cell plaque with dedicated flow fields and manifolds for all fluids was demonstrated to prevent the cell-to cell electrolyte transfer that limited the endurance of multicell plaques. At the conclusion of Phase 4, more than 90,900 hours of testing had been completed and twelve different cell designs had been evaluated. A technology base has been established which is ready for evaluation at the powerplant level.

Water cooling system for an air-breathing hypersonic test vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petley, Dennis H.; Dziedzic, William M.

1993-01-01

This study provides concepts for hypersonic experimental scramjet test vehicles which have low cost and low risk. Cryogenic hydrogen is used as the fuel and coolant. Secondary water cooling systems were designed. Three concepts are shown: an all hydrogen cooling system, a secondary open loop water cooled system, and a secondary closed loop water cooled system. The open loop concept uses high pressure helium (15,000 psi) to drive water through the cooling system while maintaining the pressure in the water tank. The water flows through the turbine side of the turbopump to pump hydrogen fuel. The water is then allowed to vent. In the closed loop concept high pressure, room temperature, compressed liquid water is circulated. In flight water pressure is limited to 6000 psi by venting some of the water. Water is circulated through cooling channels via an ejector which uses high pressure gas to drive a water jet. The cooling systems are presented along with finite difference steady-state and transient analysis results. The results from this study indicate that water used as a secondary coolant can be designed to increase experimental test time, produce minimum venting of fluid and reduce overall development cost.

40 CFR 63.561 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... that combusts any fuel and produces steam or heats water or any other heat transfer medium. This term... heater means a device that transfers heat liberated by burning fuel to fluids contained in tubes... operation means the offshore transfer of a bulk liquid cargo from one marine tank vessel to another vessel...

40 CFR 63.1271 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... used to heat waste gas to combustion temperatures. Any energy recovery section is not physically formed..., photoionization, or thermal conductivity. Primary fuel means the fuel that provides the principal heat input (i.e... flame, the primary purpose of which is to transfer heat to a process fluid or process material that is...

40 CFR 63.1271 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... used to heat waste gas to combustion temperatures. Any energy recovery section is not physically formed..., photoionization, or thermal conductivity. Primary fuel means the fuel that provides the principal heat input (i.e... flame, the primary purpose of which is to transfer heat to a process fluid or process material that is...

Tactical Garbage to Energy Refinery

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-10-01

Petroleum based Pyrolysis to bio-oil Biodiesel (fluid .6) Fuel cells, PEMs generators * Bio-based Gasification to energy Methane (gas .97) Liquid fuel for...Biotechnol. 2007, 108, 67-93. 9. Patzek, T.W. Thermodynamics of the Corn -Ethanol Biofuel Cycle. Curr. Rev. Plant Sci. 2004,23,519-567 10. Canes, M.E

14 CFR 29.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) Each fluid injection control other than fuel system control must be in the corresponding power control. However, the injection system pump may have a separate control. (e) If a power control incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

14 CFR 29.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) Each fluid injection control other than fuel system control must be in the corresponding power control. However, the injection system pump may have a separate control. (e) If a power control incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

14 CFR 29.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) Each fluid injection control other than fuel system control must be in the corresponding power control. However, the injection system pump may have a separate control. (e) If a power control incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

14 CFR 29.1143 - Engine controls.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... means of controlling its engine. (d) Each fluid injection control other than fuel system control must be in the corresponding power control. However, the injection system pump may have a separate control. (e) If a power control incorporates a fuel shutoff feature, the control must have a means to prevent...

Piston Bowl Optimization for RCCI Combustion in a Light-Duty Multi-Cylinder Engine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hanson, Reed M; Curran, Scott; Wagner, Robert M

2012-01-01

Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) is an engine combustion strategy that that produces low NO{sub x} and PM emissions with high thermal efficiency. Previous RCCI research has been investigated in single-cylinder heavy-duty engines. The current study investigates RCCI operation in a light-duty multi-cylinder engine at 3 operating points. These operating points were chosen to cover a range of conditions seen in the US EPA light-duty FTP test. The operating points were chosen by the Ad Hoc working group to simulate operation in the FTP test. The fueling strategy for the engine experiments consisted of in-cylinder fuel blending using port fuel-injectionmore » (PFI) of gasoline and early-cycle, direct-injection (DI) of diesel fuel. At these 3 points, the stock engine configuration is compared to operation with both the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and custom machined pistons designed for RCCI operation. The pistons were designed with assistance from the KIVA 3V computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code. By using a genetic algorithm optimization, in conjunction with KIVA, the piston bowl profile was optimized for dedicated RCCI operation to reduce unburned fuel emissions and piston bowl surface area. By reducing these parameters, the thermal efficiency of the engine was improved while maintaining low NOx and PM emissions. Results show that with the new piston bowl profile and an optimized injection schedule, RCCI brake thermal efficiency was increased from 37%, with the stock EURO IV configuration, to 40% at the 2,600 rev/min, 6.9 bar BMEP condition, and NOx and PM emissions targets were met without the need for exhaust after-treatment.« less

40 CFR 98.128 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... GREENHOUSE GAS REPORTING Fluorinated Gas Production § 98.128 Definitions. Except as provided in this section... not in light liquid service; each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect... pressure; or (2) Equipped with a barrier fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas...

Review of CTF s Fuel Rod Modeling Using FRAPCON-4.0 s Centerline Temperature Predictions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Toptan, Aysenur; Salko, Robert K; Avramova, Maria

Coolant Boiling in Rod Arrays Two Fluid (COBRA-TF), or CTF1 [1], is a nuclear thermal hydraulic subchannel code used throughout academia and industry. CTF s fuel rod modeling is originally developed for VIPRE code [2]. Its methodology is based on GAPCON [3] and FRAP [4] fuel performance codes, and material properties are included from MATPRO handbook [5]. This work focuses on review of CTF s fuel rod modeling to address shortcomings in CTF s temperature predictions. CTF is compared to FRAPCON which is U.S. NRC s steady-state fuel performance code for light-water reactor fuel rods. FRAPCON calculates the changes inmore » fuel rod variables and temperatures including the eects of cladding hoop strain, cladding oxidation, hydriding, fuel irradiation swelling, densification, fission gas release and rod internal gas pressure. It uses fuel, clad and gap material properties from MATPRO. Additionally, it has its own models for fission gas release, cladding corrosion and cladding hydrogen pickup. It allows finite dierence or finite element approaches for its mechanical model. In this study, FRAPCON-4.0 [6] is used as a reference fuel performance code. In comparison, Halden Reactor Data for IFA432 Rod 1 and Rod 3. CTF simulations are performed in two ways; informing CTF with gap conductance value from FRAPCON, and using CTF s dynamic gap conductance model. First case is chosen to show temperature is predicted correctly with CTF s models for thermal and cladding conductivities once gap conductance is provided. Latter is to review CTF s dynamic gap conductance model. These Halden test cases are selected to be representative of cases with and without any physical contact between fuel-pellet and clad while reviewing functionality of CTF s dynamic gap conductance model. Improving the CTF s dynamic gap conductance model will allow prediction of fuel and cladding thermo-mechanical behavior under irradiation, and better temperature feedbacks from CTF in transient calculations.« less

Deep Borehole Field Test Research Activities at LBNL

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dobson, Patrick; Tsang, Chin-Fu; Kneafsey, Timothy

The goal of the U.S. Department of Energy Used Fuel Disposition’s (UFD) Deep Borehole Field Test is to drill two 5 km large-diameter boreholes: a characterization borehole with a bottom-hole diameter of 8.5 inches and a field test borehole with a bottom-hole diameter of 17 inches. These boreholes will be used to demonstrate the ability to drill such holes in crystalline rocks, effectively characterize the bedrock repository system using geophysical, geochemical, and hydrological techniques, and emplace and retrieve test waste packages. These studies will be used to test the deep borehole disposal concept, which requires a hydrologically isolated environment characterizedmore » by low permeability, stable fluid density, reducing fluid chemistry conditions, and an effective borehole seal. During FY16, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory scientists conducted a number of research studies to support the UFD Deep Borehole Field Test effort. This work included providing supporting data for the Los Alamos National Laboratory geologic framework model for the proposed deep borehole site, conducting an analog study using an extensive suite of geoscience data and samples from a deep (2.5 km) research borehole in Sweden, conducting laboratory experiments and coupled process modeling related to borehole seals, and developing a suite of potential techniques that could be applied to the characterization and monitoring of the deep borehole environment. The results of these studies are presented in this report.« less

Development and Implementation of Non-Newtonian Rheology Into the Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DiSalvo, Roberto; Deaconu, Stelu; Majumdar, Alok

2006-01-01

One of the goals of this program was to develop the experimental and analytical/computational tools required to predict the flow of non-Newtonian fluids through the various system components of a propulsion system: pipes, valves, pumps etc. To achieve this goal we selected to augment the capabilities of NASA's Generalized Fluid System Simulation Program (GFSSP) software. GFSSP is a general-purpose computer program designed to calculate steady state and transient pressure and flow distributions in a complex fluid network. While the current version of the GFSSP code is able to handle various systems components the implicit assumption in the code is that the fluids in the system are Newtonian. To extend the capability of the code to non-Newtonian fluids, such as silica gelled fuels and oxidizers, modifications to the momentum equations of the code have been performed. We have successfully implemented in GFSSP flow equations for fluids with power law behavior. The implementation of the power law fluid behavior into the GFSSP code depends on knowledge of the two fluid coefficients, n and K. The determination of these parameters for the silica gels used in this program was performed experimentally. The n and K parameters for silica water gels were determined experimentally at CFDRC's Special Projects Laboratory, with a constant shear rate capillary viscometer. Batches of 8:1 (by weight) water-silica gel were mixed using CFDRC s 10-gallon gelled propellant mixer. Prior to testing the gel was allowed to rest in the rheometer tank for at least twelve hours to ensure that the delicate structure of the gel had sufficient time to reform. During the tests silica gel was pressure fed and discharged through stainless steel pipes ranging from 1", to 36", in length and three diameters; 0.0237", 0.032", and 0.047". The data collected in these tests included pressure at tube entrance and volumetric flowrate. From these data the uncorrected shear rate, shear stress, residence time, and viscosity were evaluated using formulae for non-Newtonian, power law fluids. The maximum shear rates (corrected for entrance effects) obtained in the rheometer with the current setup were in the 150,000 to 170,000sec- range. GFSSP simulations were performed with a flow circuit simulating the capillary rheometer and using Power Law gel viscosity coefficients from the experimental data. The agreement between the experimental data and the simulated flow curves was within +/-4% given quality entrance effect data.

A complete two-phase model of a porous cathode of a PEM fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hwang, J. J.

This paper has developed a complete two-phase model of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell by considering fluid flow, heat transfer and current simultaneously. In fluid flow, two momentum equations governing separately the gaseous-mixture velocity (u g) and the liquid-water velocity (u w) illustrate the behaviors of the two-phase flow in a porous electrode. Correlations for the capillary pressure and the saturation level connect the above two-fluid transports. In heat transfer, a local thermal non-equilibrium (LTNE) model accounting for intrinsic heat transfer between the reactant fluids and the solid matrices depicts the interactions between the reactant-fluid temperature (T f) and the solid-matrix temperature (T s). The irreversibility heating due to electrochemical reactions, Joule heating arising from Ohmic resistance, and latent heat of water condensation/evaporation are considered in the present non-isothermal model. In current, Ohm's law is applied to yield the conservations in ionic current (i m) and electronic current (i s) in the catalyst layer. The Butler-Volmer correlation describes the relation of the potential difference (overpotential) and the transfer current between the electrolyte (such as Nafion™) and the catalyst (such as Pt/C).

Combustion characteristics and turbulence modeling of swirling reacting flow in solid fuel ramjet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Musa, Omer; Xiong, Chen; Changsheng, Zhou

2017-10-01

This paper reviews the historical studies have been done on the solid-fuel ramjet engine and difficulties associated with numerical modeling of swirling flow with combustible gases. A literature survey about works related to numerical and experimental investigations on solid-fuel ramjet as well as using swirling flow and different numerical approaches has been provided. An overview of turbulence modeling of swirling flow and the behavior of turbulence at streamline curvature and system rotation are presented. A new and simple curvature/correction factor is proposed in order to reduce the programming complexity of SST-CC turbulence model. Finally, numerical and experimental investigations on the impact of swirling flow on SFRJ have been carried out. For that regard, a multi-physics coupling code is developed to solve the problems of multi-physics coupling of fluid mechanics, solid pyrolysis, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics. The connected-pipe test facility is used to carry out the experiments. The results showed a positive impact of swirling flow on SFRJ along with, three correlations are proposed.

Annual progress report on the NSRR experiments, (21)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1992-05-01

Fuel behavior studies under simulated reactivity-initiated accident (RIA) conditions have been performed in the Nuclear Safety Research Reactor (NSRR) since 1975. This report gives the results of experiments performed from April, 1989 through March, 1990 and discussions of them. A total of 41 tests were carried out during this period. The tests are distinguished into pre-irradiated fuel tests and fresh fuel tests; the former includes 2 JMTR pre-irradiated fuel tests, 2 PWR pre-irradiated fuel tests, and 2 BWR pre-irradiated fuel tests, and the latter includes 6 standard fuel tests (6 SP(center dot)CP scoping tests), 7 power and cooling condition parameter tests (4 flow shrouded fuel tests, 1 bundle simulation test, 1 fully water-filled vessel test, 1 high pressure/high temperature loop test), 12 special fuel tests (3 stainless steel clad fuel tests, 3 improved PWR fuel tests, 6 improved BWR fuel tests), 3 severe fuel damage tests (1 high temperature flooding test, 1 flooding behavior observation test, 1 debris coolability test), 3 fast breeder reactor fuel tests (2 moderator material characteristic measurement tests, 1 fuel behavior observation test), and 2 miscellaneous tests (2 preliminary tests for pre-irradiated fuel tests).

Investigation of Instabilities and Heat Transfer Phenomena in Supercritical Fuels at High Heat Flux and Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linne, Diane L.; Meyer, Michael L.; Braun, Donald C.; Keller, Dennis J.

2000-01-01

A series of heated tube experiments was performed to investigate fluid instabilities that occur during heating of supercritical fluids. In these tests, JP-7 flowed vertically through small diameter tubes at supercritical pressures. Test section heated length, diameter, mass flow rate, inlet temperature, and heat flux were varied in an effort to determine the range of conditions that trigger the instabilities. Heat flux was varied up to 4 BTU/sq in./s, and test section wall temperatures reached as high as 1950 F. A statistical model was generated to explain the trends and effects of the control variables. The model included no direct linear effect of heat flux on the occurrence of the instabilities. All terms involving inlet temperature were negative, and all terms involving mass flow rate were positive. Multiple tests at conditions that produced instabilities provided inconsistent results. These inconsistencies limit the use of the model as a predictive tool. Physical variables that had been previously postulated to control the onset of the instabilities, such as film temperature, velocity, buoyancy, and wall-to-bulk temperature ratio, were evaluated here. Film temperatures at or near critical occurred during both stable and unstable tests. All tests at the highest velocity were stable, but there was no functional relationship found between the instabilities and velocity, or a combination of velocity and temperature ratio. Finally, all of the unstable tests had significant buoyancy at the inlet of the test section, but many stable tests also had significant buoyancy forces.

Three Dimensional CFD Analysis of the GTX Combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steffen, C. J., Jr.; Bond, R. B.; Edwards, J. R.

2002-01-01

The annular combustor geometry of a combined-cycle engine has been analyzed with three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics. Both subsonic combustion and supersonic combustion flowfields have been simulated. The subsonic combustion analysis was executed in conjunction with a direct-connect test rig. Two cold-flow and one hot-flow results are presented. The simulations compare favorably with the test data for the two cold flow calculations; the hot-flow data was not yet available. The hot-flow simulation indicates that the conventional ejector-ramjet cycle would not provide adequate mixing at the conditions tested. The supersonic combustion ramjet flowfield was simulated with frozen chemistry model. A five-parameter test matrix was specified, according to statistical design-of-experiments theory. Twenty-seven separate simulations were used to assemble surrogate models for combustor mixing efficiency and total pressure recovery. ScramJet injector design parameters (injector angle, location, and fuel split) as well as mission variables (total fuel massflow and freestream Mach number) were included in the analysis. A promising injector design has been identified that provides good mixing characteristics with low total pressure losses. The surrogate models can be used to develop performance maps of different injector designs. Several complex three-way variable interactions appear within the dataset that are not adequately resolved with the current statistical analysis.

Development of a reduced tri-propylene glycol monomethyl ether– n -hexadecane–poly-aromatic hydrocarbon mechanism and its application for soot prediction

DOE PAGES

Park, Seunghyun; Ra, Youngchul; Reitz, Rolf D.; ...

2016-03-01

A reduced chemical kinetic mechanism for Tri-Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (TPGME) has been developed and applied to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations for predicting combustion and soot formation processes. The reduced TPGME mechanism was combined with a reduced n-hexadecane mechanism and a Poly-Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) mechanism to investigate the effect of fuel oxygenation on combustion and soot emissions. The final version of the TPGME-n-hexadecane-PAH mechanism consists of 144 species and 730 reactions and was validated with experiments in shock tubes as well as in a constant volume spray combustion vessel (CVCV) from the Engine Combustion Network (ECN). The effects ofmore » ambient temperature, varying oxygen content in the tested fuels on ignition delay, spray liftoff length and soot formation under diesel-like conditions were analyzed and addressed using multidimensional reacting flow simulations and the reduced mechanism. Here, the results show that the present reduced mechanism gives reliable predictions of the combustion characteristics and soot formation processes. In the CVCV simulations, two important trends were identified. First, increasing the initial temperature in the CVCV shortens the ignition delay and lift-off length, reduces the fuel-air mixing, thereby increasing the soot levels. Secondly, fuel oxygenation introduces more oxygen into the central region of a fuel jet and reduces residence times of fuel rich area in active soot forming regions, thereby reducing soot levels.« less

Development of a reduced tri-propylene glycol monomethyl ether– n -hexadecane–poly-aromatic hydrocarbon mechanism and its application for soot prediction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Park, Seunghyun; Ra, Youngchul; Reitz, Rolf D.

A reduced chemical kinetic mechanism for Tri-Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (TPGME) has been developed and applied to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations for predicting combustion and soot formation processes. The reduced TPGME mechanism was combined with a reduced n-hexadecane mechanism and a Poly-Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) mechanism to investigate the effect of fuel oxygenation on combustion and soot emissions. The final version of the TPGME-n-hexadecane-PAH mechanism consists of 144 species and 730 reactions and was validated with experiments in shock tubes as well as in a constant volume spray combustion vessel (CVCV) from the Engine Combustion Network (ECN). The effects ofmore » ambient temperature, varying oxygen content in the tested fuels on ignition delay, spray liftoff length and soot formation under diesel-like conditions were analyzed and addressed using multidimensional reacting flow simulations and the reduced mechanism. Here, the results show that the present reduced mechanism gives reliable predictions of the combustion characteristics and soot formation processes. In the CVCV simulations, two important trends were identified. First, increasing the initial temperature in the CVCV shortens the ignition delay and lift-off length, reduces the fuel-air mixing, thereby increasing the soot levels. Secondly, fuel oxygenation introduces more oxygen into the central region of a fuel jet and reduces residence times of fuel rich area in active soot forming regions, thereby reducing soot levels.« less

Finite Element Analysis of MEMS Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corrigan, Jennifer

2004-01-01

A side-slide actuator and a corrugated diaphragm actuator will be analyzed and optimized this summer. Coupled electrostatic and fluid analyses will also be initiated. Both the side-slide actuator and the corrugated diaphragm actuator will be used to regulate the flow of fuel in a jet engine. Many of the side-slide actuators will be placed on top of a fuel injector that is still in the developmental stage as well. The corrugated diaphragm actuator will also be used to regulate the flow of fuel in fuel injectors. A comparative analysis of the performance matrix of both actuators will be conducted. The side-slide actuator uses the concept of mechanical advantage to regulate the flow of fuel using electrostatic forces. It is made from Nickel, Silicon Carbide, and thin layers of Oxide. The slider will have a hole in the middle that will allow fuel to pass through the hole underneath it. The goal is to regulate the flow of fuel through the inlet. This means that the actuator needs to be designed so that when a voltage is applied to the push rod, the slider will deflect in the x-direction and be able to completely block the inlet and no fuel can pass through. Different voltage levels will be tested. The parameters that are being optimized are the thickness of the diaphragm, what kind of corrugation the diaphragm should have, the length, width, and thickness of the push rod, and what design should be used to return the slider. The current possibilities for a return rod are a built in spring on the slider, a return rod that acts like a spring, or a return rod that is identical to the push rod. The final actuator design should have a push rod that has rotational motion and no translation motion, a push rod thickness that prevents warping due to the slider, and a large ratio of the displacement on the bottom of the push rod to displacement on the top of the push rod. The corrugated diaphragm actuator was optimized last winter and this summer will be spent completing the optimization of the coupled electrostatic and fluid flow parameters. It was found that Nickel is the best material to use for the diaphragm because it has a higher yield strength and allows for a larger stress, deflection and applied pressure. The parameters that were optimized were the wavelength and thickness of the diaphragm.

Comparison of Homogeneous and Heterogeneous CFD Fuel Models for Phase I of the IAEA CRP on HTR Uncertainties Benchmark

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gerhard Strydom; Su-Jong Yoon

2014-04-01

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) evaluation of homogeneous and heterogeneous fuel models was performed as part of the Phase I calculations of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Coordinate Research Program (CRP) on High Temperature Reactor (HTR) Uncertainties in Modeling (UAM). This study was focused on the nominal localized stand-alone fuel thermal response, as defined in Ex. I-3 and I-4 of the HTR UAM. The aim of the stand-alone thermal unit-cell simulation is to isolate the effect of material and boundary input uncertainties on a very simplified problem, before propagation of these uncertainties are performed in subsequent coupled neutronics/thermal fluids phasesmore » on the benchmark. In many of the previous studies for high temperature gas cooled reactors, the volume-averaged homogeneous mixture model of a single fuel compact has been applied. In the homogeneous model, the Tristructural Isotropic (TRISO) fuel particles in the fuel compact were not modeled directly and an effective thermal conductivity was employed for the thermo-physical properties of the fuel compact. On the contrary, in the heterogeneous model, the uranium carbide (UCO), inner and outer pyrolytic carbon (IPyC/OPyC) and silicon carbide (SiC) layers of the TRISO fuel particles are explicitly modeled. The fuel compact is modeled as a heterogeneous mixture of TRISO fuel kernels embedded in H-451 matrix graphite. In this study, a steady-state and transient CFD simulations were performed with both homogeneous and heterogeneous models to compare the thermal characteristics. The nominal values of the input parameters are used for this CFD analysis. In a future study, the effects of input uncertainties in the material properties and boundary parameters will be investigated and reported.« less

Methods of making transportation fuel

DOEpatents

Roes, Augustinus Wilhelmus Maria [Houston, TX; Mo, Weijian [Sugar Land, TX; Muylle, Michel Serge Marie [Houston, TX; Mandema, Remco Hugo [Houston, TX; Nair, Vijay [Katy, TX

2012-04-10

A method for producing alkylated hydrocarbons is disclosed. Formation fluid is produced from a subsurface in situ heat treatment process. The formation fluid is separated to produce a liquid stream and a first gas stream. The first gas stream includes olefins. The liquid stream is fractionated to produce at least a second gas stream including hydrocarbons having a carbon number of at least 3. The first gas stream and the second gas stream are introduced into an alkylation unit to produce alkylated hydrocarbons. At least a portion of the olefins in the first gas stream enhance alkylation. The alkylated hydrocarbons may be blended with one or more components to produce transportation fuel.

Fuels and Lubricants Influence on Turbine Engine Design and Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-08-01

Temperatures, Mission A. 30 16. Misrion A Interceptor ECS SchemaLiu. 32 17. GEl4/FLiTE-2A Fuel Delivery System Schematic. 34 18. GE14 /FLITE-2A Oil Sump...Layout Drawing. 36 19. G0E4/FL,I’LE-2A LubriaLiui SysLem Schematic. 37 20. GEl4/FLITE-2A Fluid Power System Schematic. 41 21. GE14 /FLITE-2A Fluid Syqtem...Schematic. 1 35 63. GEI4/FI,ITE-2B ThermaL Profiles, MIL-L-27502. 140 64. GE14 /FLIT.-2B Thermal Profiles, 500’ F E’ster. 141 .ix 7 LIST OF ILUWSTRAT LON

Shuttle cryogenic supply system optimization study. Volume 3: Technical report, section 10, 11 and 12

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The evaluation of candidate cryogenic fuel systems for space shuttle vehicles is discussed. A set of guidelines was used to establish a matrix of possible combinations for the integration of potential cryogenic systems. The various concepts and combinations which resulted from the integration efforts are described. The parameters which were considered in developing the matrix are: (1) storage of cryogenic materials, (2) fuel lines, (3) tank pressure control, (4) thermal control, (5) fluid control, and (6) fluid conditioning. Block diagrams and drawings of the candidate systems are provided. Performance predictions for the systems are outlined in tables of data.

Mathematical model of simple spalling formation during coal cutting with extracting machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gabov, V. V.; Zadkov, D. A.

2018-05-01

A single-mass model of a rotor shearer is analyzed. It is shown that rotor mining machines has large inertia moments and load dynamics. An extraction module model with selective movement of the cutting tool is represented. The peculiar feature of such extracting machines is fluid power drive cutter mechanism. They can steadily operate at large shear thickness, and locking modes are not an emergency for them. Comparing with shearers they have less inertional mass, but slower average cutting speed, and its momentary values depend on load. Basing on the equation of hydraulic fuel consumption balance the work of fluid power drive of extracting module cutter mechanism together with hydro pneumatic accumulator is analyzed. Spalling formation model during coal cutting with fluid power drive cutter mechanism and potential energy stores are suggested. Matching cutter speed with the speed of main crack expansion and amount of potential energy consumption, cutter load is determined only by ultimate stress at crack pole and friction. Tests of an extracting module cutter in real size model proved the stated theory.

Distributed temperature sensing inside a 19-rod bundle

DOE PAGES

Lomperski, S.; Bremer, N.; Gerardi, C.

2017-05-23

The temperature field within a model of a sodium-cooled fast reactor fuel rod bundle was measured using Ø155 μm fiber optic distributed temperature sensors (DTS). The bundle consists of 19 electrically-heated rods Ø6.3 mm and 865 mm long. Working fluids were argon and air at atmospheric pressure and Reynolds numbers up to 300. A 20 m-long DTS was threaded through Ø1 mm capillaries wound around rods as wire-wraps. The sensor generated 173 measurements along each rod at 5 mm resolution for a total of 3300 data locations. A second DTS, 58 m long, was suspended between rods to provide 9300more » fluid temperature measurements at 20 mm resolution. Such data density makes it possible to construct 3D maps of the temperature field that are beyond the reach of traditional sensors such as thermocouples. This is illustrated through a series of steady-state and transient tests. As a result, the work demonstrates the feasibility of mapping temperature within the close confines of a rod bundle at resolutions suitable for validation of computational fluid dynamics codes.« less

Evaluation of Impinging Stream Vortex Chamber Concepts for Liquid Rocket Engine Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trinh, Huu; Kopicz, Charles; Bullard, Brad; Michaels, Scott

2003-01-01

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and the U. S. Army are jointly investigating vortex chamber concepts for cryogenic oxygen/hydrocarbon fuel rocket engine applications. One concept, the Impinging Stream Vortex Chamber Concept (ISVC), has been tested with gel propellants at AMCOM at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. A version of this concept for the liquid oxygen (LOX)/hydrocarbon fuel (RP-1) propellant system is derived from the one for the gel propellant. An unlike impinging injector is employed to deliver the propellants to the chamber. MSFC has also designed two alternative injection schemes, called the chasing injectors, associated with this vortex chamber concept. In these injection techniques, both propellant jets and their impingement point are in the same chamber cross-sectional plane. One injector has a similar orifice size with the original unlike impinging injector. The second chasing injector has small injection orifices. The team has achieved their objectives of demonstrating the self-cooled chamber wall benefits of ISVC and of providing the test data for validating computational fluids dynamics (CFD) models. These models, in turn, will be used to design the optimum vortex chambers in the future.

Dish stirling solar receiver combustor test program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bankston, C. P.; Back, L. H.

1981-01-01

The operational and energy transfer characteristics of the Dish Stirling Solar Receiver (DSSR) combustor/heat exchanger system was evaluated. The DSSR is designed to operate with fossil fuel augmentation utilizing a swirl combustor and cross flow heat exchanger consisting of a single row of 4 closely spaced tubes that are curved into a conical shape. The performance of the combustor/heat exchanger system without a Stirling engine was studied over a range of operating conditions and output levels using water as the working fluid. Results show that the combustor may be started under cold conditions, controlled safety, and operated at a constant air/fuel ratio (10 percent excess air) over the required range of firing rates. Furthermore, nondimensional heat transfer coefficients based on total heat transfer are plotted versus Reynolds number and compared with literature data taken for single rows of closely spaced tubes perpendicular to cross flow. The data show enhanced heat transfer for the present geometry and test conditions. Analysis of the results shows that the present system meets specified thermal requirements, thus verifying the feasibility of the DSSR combustor design for final prototype fabrication.

Feasibility Study and Development of Modular Appliance Technologies, Centralized Heating (MATCH) Field Kitchen

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-07-01

including standby losses. The required input fuel rate is 261.000 Btu/hr ( LHV ) or 277,700 Btu/hr ( HHV ). The Becker burner used in the system is rated at 2...cost of -$6/gallon. Burning diesel fuel , with 20-percent excess air and a final exhaust temperature of 932°F, requires a fuel LHV input of 261,000 Btu...GPH diesel fuel burning rate, corresponding to 280.000 Btu/hr ( HHV ) input. The flue gases leave the fluid heater at a nominal temperature of 932°F

Enzymatic Fuel Cells: Towards Self-Powered Implantable and Wearable Diagnostics.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Solino, Carla; Lorenzo, Mirella Di

2018-01-29

With the rapid progress in nanotechnology and microengineering, point-of-care and personalised healthcare, based on wearable and implantable diagnostics, is becoming a reality. Enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) hold great potential as a sustainable means to power such devices by using physiological fluids as the fuel. This review summarises the fundamental operation of EFCs and discusses the most recent advances for their use as implantable and wearable self-powered sensors.

Enzymatic Fuel Cells: Towards Self-Powered Implantable and Wearable Diagnostics

PubMed Central

Gonzalez-Solino, Carla; Lorenzo, Mirella Di

2018-01-01

With the rapid progress in nanotechnology and microengineering, point-of-care and personalised healthcare, based on wearable and implantable diagnostics, is becoming a reality. Enzymatic fuel cells (EFCs) hold great potential as a sustainable means to power such devices by using physiological fluids as the fuel. This review summarises the fundamental operation of EFCs and discusses the most recent advances for their use as implantable and wearable self-powered sensors. PMID:29382147

Application of Pinniped Vibrissae to Aeropropulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shyam, Vikram; Ameri, Ali; Poinsatte, Philip; Thurman, Douglas; Wroblewski, Adam; Snyder, Christopher

2015-01-01

Vibrissae of Phoca Vitulina (Harbor Seal) and Mirounga Angustirostris (Elephant Seal) possessundulations along their length. Harbor Seal Vibrissae were shown to reduce vortex induced vibrations and reduce dragcompared to appropriately scaled cylinders and ellipses. Samples of Harbor Seal vibrissae, Elephant Seal vibrissae andCalifornia Sea Lion vibrissae were collected from the Marine Mammal Center in California. CT scanning, microscopy and3D scanning techniques were utilized to characterize the whiskers. Computational fluid dynamics simulations of thewhiskers were carried out to compare them to an ellipse and a cylinder. Leading edge parameters from the whiskerswere used to create a 3D profile based on a modern power turbine blade. The NASA SW-2 facility was used to performwind tunnel cascade testing on the 'Seal Blades'. Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations were used to studyincidence angles from -37 to +10 degrees on the aerodynamic performance of the Seal Blade. The tests and simulationswere conducted at a Reynolds number of 100,000. The Seal Blades showed consistent performance improvements overthe baseline configuration. It was determined that a fuel burn reduction of approximately 5 could be achieved for a fixedwing aircraft. Noise reduction potential is also explored

Fuel cell repeater unit including frame and separator plate

DOEpatents

Yamanis, Jean; Hawkes, Justin R; Chiapetta, Jr., Louis; Bird, Connie E; Sun, Ellen Y; Croteau, Paul F

2013-11-05

An example fuel cell repeater includes a separator plate and a frame establishing at least a portion of a flow path that is operative to communicate fuel to or from at least one fuel cell held by the frame relative to the separator plate. The flow path has a perimeter and any fuel within the perimeter flow across the at least one fuel cell in a first direction. The separator plate, the frame, or both establish at least one conduit positioned outside the flow path perimeter. The conduit is outside of the flow path perimeter and is configured to direct flow in a second, different direction. The conduit is fluidly coupled with the flow path.

SOLID GAS SUSPENSION NUCLEAR FUEL ASSEMBLY

DOEpatents

Schluderberg, D.C.; Ryon, J.W.

1962-05-01

A fuel assembly is designed for use in a gas-suspension cooled nuclear fuel reactor. The coolant fluid is an inert gas such as nitrogen or helium with particles such as carbon suspended therein. The fuel assembly is contained within an elongated pressure vessel extending down into the reactor. The fuel portion is at the lower end of the vessel and is constructed of cylindrical segments through which the coolant passes. Turbulence promotors within the passageways maintain the particles in agitation to increase its ability to transfer heat away from the outer walls. Shielding sections and alternating passageways above the fueled portion limit the escape of radiation out of the top of the vessel. (AEC)

Performance prediction of a ducted rocket combustor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stowe, Robert

2001-07-01

The ducted rocket is a supersonic flight propulsion system that takes the exhaust from a solid fuel gas generator, mixes it with air, and burns it to produce thrust. To develop such systems, the use of numerical models based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is increasingly popular, but their application to reacting flow requires specific attention and validation. Through a careful examination of the governing equations and experimental measurements, a CFD-based method was developed to predict the performance of a ducted rocket combustor. It uses an equilibrium-chemistry Probability Density Function (PDF) combustion model, with a gaseous and a separate stream of 75 nm diameter carbon spheres to represent the fuel. After extensive validation with water tunnel and direct-connect combustion experiments over a wide range of geometries and test conditions, this CFD-based method was able to predict, within a good degree of accuracy, the combustion efficiency of a ducted rocket combustor.

Hydrogen-Oxygen PEM Regenerative Fuel Cell Development at the NASA Glenn Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bents, David J.; Scullin, Vincent J.; Chang, Bei-Jiann; Johnson, Donald W.; Garcia, Christoher P.; Jakupca, Ian J.

2005-01-01

The closed-cycle hydrogen-oxygen PEM regenerative fuel cell (RFC) at the NASA Glenn Research Center has successfully demonstrated closed cycle operation at rated power for multiple charge-discharge cycles. During charge cycle the RFC has absorbed input electrical power simulating a solar day cycle ranging from zero to 15 kWe peak, and delivered steady 5 kWe output power for periods exceeding 8 hr. Orderly transitions from charge to discharge mode, and return to charging after full discharge, have been accomplished without incident. Continuing test operations focus on: (1) Increasing the number of contiguous uninterrupted charge discharge cycles; (2) Increasing the performance envelope boundaries; (3) Operating the RFC as an energy storage device on a regular basis; (4) Gaining operational experience leading to development of fully automated operation; and (5) Developing instrumentation and in situ fluid sampling strategies to monitor health and anticipate breakdowns.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015539 (19 June 2014) --- NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Spectrometer for measuring the concentration of components in a fluid stream and method for using same

DOEpatents

Durham, Michael D.; Stedman, Donald H.; Ebner, Timothy G.; Burkhardt, Mark R.

1991-01-01

A device and method for measuring the concentrations of components of a fluid stream. Preferably, the fluid stream is an in situ gas stream, such as a fossil fuel fired flue gas in a smoke stack. The measurements are determined from the intensity of radiation over a selected range of radiation wavelengths using peak-to-trough calculations. The need for a reference intensity is eliminated.

Storage of H.sub.2 by absorption and/or mixture within a fluid medium

DOEpatents

Berry, Gene David; Aceves, Salvador Martin

2007-03-20

For the first time, a hydrogen storage method, apparatus and system having a fluid mixture is provided. At predetermined pressures and/or temperatures within a contained substantially fixed volume, the fluid mixture can store a high density of hydrogen molecules, wherein a predetermined phase of the fluid mixture is capable of being withdrawn from the substantially fixed volume for use as a vehicle fuel or energy storage having reduced and/or eliminated evaporative losses, especially where storage weight, vessel cost, vessel shape, safety, and energy efficiency are beneficial.

Lattice Boltzmann modeling of transport phenomena in fuel cells and flow batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Ao; Shyy, Wei; Zhao, Tianshou

2017-06-01

Fuel cells and flow batteries are promising technologies to address climate change and air pollution problems. An understanding of the complex multiscale and multiphysics transport phenomena occurring in these electrochemical systems requires powerful numerical tools. Over the past decades, the lattice Boltzmann (LB) method has attracted broad interest in the computational fluid dynamics and the numerical heat transfer communities, primarily due to its kinetic nature making it appropriate for modeling complex multiphase transport phenomena. More importantly, the LB method fits well with parallel computing due to its locality feature, which is required for large-scale engineering applications. In this article, we review the LB method for gas-liquid two-phase flows, coupled fluid flow and mass transport in porous media, and particulate flows. Examples of applications are provided in fuel cells and flow batteries. Further developments of the LB method are also outlined.

The influence of fuel type to combustion characteristic in diffusion flame drying by computational fluid dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Septiani, Eka Lutfi; Widiyastuti, W.; Machmudah, Siti; Nurtono, Tantular; Winardi, Sugeng

2017-05-01

Diffusion flame spray drying has become promising method in nanoparticles synthesis giving several advantages and low operation cost. In order to scale up the process which needs high experimentation time and cost, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) by Ansys Fluent 15.0 software has been used. Combustion characteristic in diffusion flame reactor may affects particle size distribution. This study aims to observe influence of fuel type to combustion characteristic in the reactor. Large Eddy Simulation (LES) and non-premixed combustion model are selected for the turbulence and combustion model respectively. Methane, propane, and LPG in 0.5 L/min were used as type of fuel. While the oxidizer is air with 200% excess of O2. Simulation result shown that the maximum temperature was obtained from propane-air combustion in 2268 K. However, the stable temperature contour was achieved by methane-air combustion.

Hydraulically actuated fuel injector including a pilot operated spool valve assembly and hydraulic system using same

DOEpatents

Shafer, Scott F.

2002-01-01

The present invention relates to hydraulic systems including hydraulically actuated fuel injectors that have a pilot operated spool valve assembly. One class of hydraulically actuated fuel injectors includes a solenoid driven pilot valve that controls the initiation of the injection event. However, during cold start conditions, hydraulic fluid, typically engine lubricating oil, is particularly viscous and is often difficult to displace through the relatively small drain path that is defined past the pilot valve member. Because the spool valve typically responds slower than expected during cold start due to the difficulty in displacing the relatively viscous oil, accurate start of injection timing can be difficult to achieve. There also exists a greater difficulty in reaching the higher end of the cold operating speed range. Therefore, the present invention utilizes a fluid evacuation valve to aid in displacement of the relatively viscous oil during cold start conditions.

Mixing characterization of highly underexpanded fluid jets with real gas expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Förster, Felix J.; Baab, Steffen; Steinhausen, Christoph; Lamanna, Grazia; Ewart, Paul; Weigand, Bernhard

2018-03-01

We report a comprehensive speed of sound database for multi-component mixing of underexpanded fuel jets with real gas expansion. The paper presents several reference test cases with well-defined experimental conditions providing quantitative data for validation of computational simulations. Two injectant fluids, fundamentally different with respect to their critical properties, are brought to supercritical state and discharged into cold nitrogen at different pressures. The database features a wide range of nozzle pressure ratios covering the regimes that are generally classified as highly and extremely highly underexpanded jets. Further variation is introduced by investigating different injection temperatures. Measurements are obtained along the centerline at different axial positions. In addition, an adiabatic mixing model based on non-ideal thermodynamic mixture properties is used to extract mixture compositions from the experimental speed of sound data. The concentration data obtained are complemented by existing experimental data and represented by an empirical fit.

Modeling the Risk of Fire/Explosion Due to Oxidizer/Fuel Leaks in the Ares I Interstage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ring, Robert W.; Stott, James E.; Hales, Christy

2008-01-01

A significant flight hazard associated with liquid propellants, such as those used in the upper stage of NASA's new Ares I launch vehicle, is the possibility of leakage of hazardous fluids resulting in a catastrophic fire/explosion. The enclosed and vented interstage of the Ares I contains numerous oxidizer and fuel supply lines as well as ignition sources. The potential for fire/explosion due to leaks during ascent depends on the relative concentrations of hazardous and inert fluids within the interstage along with other variables such as pressure, temperature, leak rates, and fluid outgasing rates. This analysis improves on previous NASA Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA) estimates of the probability of deflagration, in which many of the variables pertinent to the problem were not explicitly modeled as a function of time. This paper presents the modeling methodology developed to analyze these risks.

Systems for delivering liquified natural gas to an engine

DOEpatents

Bingham, Dennis N.; Wilding, Bruce M.; O'Brien, James E.; Siahpush, Ali S.; Brown, Kevin B.

2000-01-01

A fuel delivery system includes a fuel tank configured to receive liquid natural gas. A first conduit extends from a vapor holding portion of the fuel tank to an economizer valve. A second conduit extends from a liquid holding portion of the fuel tank to the economizer valve. Fluid coupled to the economizer valve is a vaporizer which is heated by coolant from the engine and is positioned below the fuel tank. The economizer valve selectively withdraws either liquid natural gas or vaporized natural gas from the fuel tank depending on the pressure within the vapor holding portion of the fuel tank. A delivery conduit extends from the vaporizer to the engine. A return conduit having a check valve formed therein extends from the delivery conduit to the vapor holding portion of the fuel tank for pressurizing the fuel tank.

14 CFR 25.963 - Fuel tanks: general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the vibration, inertia, fluid, and structural loads... criteria in order to avoid loss of hazardous quantities of fuel: (1) All covers located in an area where... difference between the inside and the outside of the tank. [Doc. No. 5066, 29 FR 18291, Dec. 24, 1964, as...

14 CFR 25.963 - Fuel tanks: general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the vibration, inertia, fluid, and structural loads... criteria in order to avoid loss of hazardous quantities of fuel: (1) All covers located in an area where... difference between the inside and the outside of the tank. [Doc. No. 5066, 29 FR 18291, Dec. 24, 1964, as...

14 CFR 25.963 - Fuel tanks: general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the vibration, inertia, fluid, and structural loads... criteria in order to avoid loss of hazardous quantities of fuel: (1) All covers located in an area where... difference between the inside and the outside of the tank. [Doc. No. 5066, 29 FR 18291, Dec. 24, 1964, as...

14 CFR 25.963 - Fuel tanks: general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the vibration, inertia, fluid, and structural loads... criteria in order to avoid loss of hazardous quantities of fuel: (1) All covers located in an area where... difference between the inside and the outside of the tank. [Doc. No. 5066, 29 FR 18291, Dec. 24, 1964, as...

14 CFR 25.963 - Fuel tanks: general.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... tank must be able to withstand, without failure, the vibration, inertia, fluid, and structural loads... criteria in order to avoid loss of hazardous quantities of fuel: (1) All covers located in an area where... difference between the inside and the outside of the tank. [Doc. No. 5066, 29 FR 18291, Dec. 24, 1964, as...

40 CFR 60.105 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... liquid or solid fossil-fuels and the hours of operation during which liquid or solid fossil-fuels are... the atmosphere. The instrument shall be spanned at 60, 70, or 80 percent opacity. (2) For fluid... monitoring and recording the concentration by volume (dry basis) of CO emissions into the atmosphere, except...

40 CFR 60.105 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... liquid or solid fossil-fuels and the hours of operation during which liquid or solid fossil-fuels are... the atmosphere. The instrument shall be spanned at 60, 70, or 80 percent opacity. (2) For fluid... monitoring and recording the concentration by volume (dry basis) of CO emissions into the atmosphere, except...

40 CFR 60.105 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... liquid or solid fossil-fuels and the hours of operation during which liquid or solid fossil-fuels are... the atmosphere. The instrument shall be spanned at 60, 70, or 80 percent opacity. (2) For fluid... monitoring and recording the concentration by volume (dry basis) of CO emissions into the atmosphere, except...

40 CFR 60.105 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... liquid or solid fossil-fuels and the hours of operation during which liquid or solid fossil-fuels are... the atmosphere. The instrument shall be spanned at 60, 70, or 80 percent opacity. (2) For fluid... monitoring and recording the concentration by volume (dry basis) of CO emissions into the atmosphere, except...

40 CFR 60.105 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... liquid or solid fossil-fuels and the hours of operation during which liquid or solid fossil-fuels are... the atmosphere. The instrument shall be spanned at 60, 70, or 80 percent opacity. (2) For fluid... monitoring and recording the concentration by volume (dry basis) of CO emissions into the atmosphere, except...

Air-cooled, hydrogen-air fuel cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shelekhin, Alexander B. (Inventor); Bushnell, Calvin L. (Inventor); Pien, Michael S. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

An air-cooled, hydrogen-air solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) fuel cell with a membrane electrode assembly operatively associated with a fluid flow plate having at least one plate cooling channel extending through the plate and at least one air distribution hole extending from a surface of the cathode flow field into the plate cooling channel.

Premixed direct injection disk

DOEpatents

York, William David; Ziminsky, Willy Steve; Johnson, Thomas Edward; Lacy, Benjamin; Zuo, Baifang; Uhm, Jong Ho

2013-04-23

A fuel/air mixing disk for use in a fuel/air mixing combustor assembly is provided. The disk includes a first face, a second face, and at least one fuel plenum disposed therebetween. A plurality of fuel/air mixing tubes extend through the pre-mixing disk, each mixing tube including an outer tube wall extending axially along a tube axis and in fluid communication with the at least one fuel plenum. At least a portion of the plurality of fuel/air mixing tubes further includes at least one fuel injection hole have a fuel injection hole diameter extending through said outer tube wall, the fuel injection hole having an injection angle relative to the tube axis. The invention provides good fuel air mixing with low combustion generated NOx and low flow pressure loss translating to a high gas turbine efficiency, that is durable, and resistant to flame holding and flash back.

40 CFR 61.242-3 - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... barrier fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a... paragraphs (a)-(c) of this section shall be equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. (e)(1) Each sensor as required in paragraph (d) of this section...

40 CFR 60.482-3a - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (2) Equipped with a barrier fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas... equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. (e)(1) Each sensor as required in paragraph (d) of this section shall be checked daily or shall be equipped...

40 CFR 65.112 - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... fuel gas system, or connected by a closed vent system to a control device that meets the requirements... barrier fluid system shall be equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. Each sensor shall be observed daily or shall be equipped with an alarm unless the...

40 CFR 61.242-2 - Standards: Pumps.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed-vent..., is not in VOC service. (3) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect... employ a gas chromatography column to limit the response of the monitor to VHAP, at the option of the...

40 CFR 61.242-2 - Standards: Pumps.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed-vent..., is not in VOC service. (3) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect... employ a gas chromatography column to limit the response of the monitor to VHAP, at the option of the...

40 CFR 61.242-3 - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... barrier fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a... paragraphs (a)-(c) of this section shall be equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. (e)(1) Each sensor as required in paragraph (d) of this section...

40 CFR 65.112 - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... fuel gas system, or connected by a closed vent system to a control device that meets the requirements... barrier fluid system shall be equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. Each sensor shall be observed daily or shall be equipped with an alarm unless the...

40 CFR 60.482-3a - Standards: Compressors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... (2) Equipped with a barrier fluid system degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas... equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, barrier fluid system, or both. (e)(1) Each sensor as required in paragraph (d) of this section shall be checked daily or shall be equipped...

Interface Configuration Experiments (ICE) Explore the Effects of Microgravity on Fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1996-01-01

The Interface Configuration Experiment (ICE) is actually a series of experiments that explore the striking behavior of liquid-vapor interfaces (i.e., fluid surfaces) in a low gravity environment under which major shifts in liquid position can arise from small changes in container shape or contact angle. Although these experiments are designed to test current mathematical theory, there are numerous practical applications that could result from these studies. When designing fluid management systems for space-based operations, it is important to be able to predict the locations and configurations that fluids will assume in containers under low-gravity conditions. The increased ability to predict, and hence control, fluid interfaces is vital to systems and/or processes where capillary forces play a significant role both in space and on the Earth. Some of these applications are in general coating processes (paints, pesticides, printing, etc.), fluid transport in porous media (ground water flows, oil recovery, etc.), liquid propellant systems in space (liquid fuel and oxygen), capillary-pumped loops and heat pipes, and space-based life-support systems. In space, almost every fluid system is affected, if not dominated, by capillarity. Knowledge of the liquid-vapor interface behavior, and in particular the interface shape from which any analysis must begin, is required as a foundation to predict how these fluids will react in microgravity and on Earth. With such knowledge, system designs can be optimized, thereby decreasing costs and complexity, while increasing performance and reliability. ICE has increased, and will continue to increase this knowledge, as it probes the specific peculiarities of current theory upon which our current understanding of these effects is based. Several versions of ICE were conducted in NASA Lewis Research Center's drop towers and on the space shuttle during the first and second United States Microgravity Laboratory missions (USML-1 and USML-2). Additional tests are planned for the space shuttle and for the Russian Mir space station. These studies will focus on interfacial problems concerning surface existence, uniqueness, configuration, stability, and flow characteristics.

Aquifers survey in the context of source rocks exploitation: from baseline acquisition to long term monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia, Bruno; Rouchon, Virgile; Deflandre, Jean-Pierre

2017-04-01

Producing hydrocarbons from source rocks (like shales: a mix of clays, silts, carbonate and sandstone minerals containing matured organic matter, i.e. kerogen oil and gas, but also non-hydrocarbon various species of chemical elements including sometimes radioactive elements) requires to create permeability within the rock matrix by at least hydraulically fracturing the source rock. It corresponds to the production of hydrocarbon fuels that have not been naturally expelled from the pressurized matured source rock and that remain trapped in the porosity or/and kerogen porosity of the impermeable matrix. Azimuth and extent of developed fractures can be respectively determined and mapped by monitoring the associated induced microseismicity. This allows to have an idea of where and how far injected fluids penetrated the rock formation. In a geological context, aquifers are always present in the vicinity -or on fluid migration paths- of such shale formations: deep aquifers (near the shale formation) up to sub-surface and potable (surface) aquifers. Our purpose will be to track any unsuitable invasion or migration of chemicals specifies coming from matured shales of production fluids including both drilling and fracturing ones into aquifers. Our objective is to early detect and alarm of any anomaly to avoid any important environmental issue. The approach consists in deploying a specific sampling tool within a well to recover formation fluids and to run a panoply of appropriate laboratory tests to state on fluid characteristics. Of course for deep aquifers, such a characterization process may consider aquifer properties prior producing shale oil and gas, as they may contain naturally some chemical species present in the source rocks. One can also consider that a baseline acquisition could be justified in case of possible previous invasion of non-natural fluids in the formation under survey (due to any anthropogenic action at surface or in the underground). The paper aims at presenting the protocol and routine test we propose to make our early detection approach efficient for production of shale hydrocarbon fluids, in considering the source-rock reservoir itself, the aquifers, and also the chemical species present in the fluids that are used for hydraulic fracturing operations.

Three-dimensional numerical and experimental studies on transient ignition of hybrid rocket motor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Hui; Yu, Ruipeng; Zhu, Hao; Wu, Junfeng; Cai, Guobiao

2017-11-01

This paper presents transient simulations and experimental studies of the ignition process of the hybrid rocket motors (HRMs) using 90% hydrogen peroxide (HP) as the oxidizer and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and Polyethylene (PE) as fuels. A fluid-solid coupling numerically method is established based on the conserved form of the three-dimensional unsteady Navier-Stokes (N-S) equations, considering gas fluid with chemical reactions and heat transfer between the fluid and solid region. Experiments are subsequently conducted using high-speed camera to record the ignition process. The flame propagation, chamber pressurizing process and average fuel regression rate of the numerical simulation results show good agreement with the experimental ones, which demonstrates the validity of the simulations in this study. The results also indicate that the flame propagation time is mainly affected by fluid dynamics and it increases with an increasing grain port area. The chamber pressurizing process begins when the flame propagation completes in the grain port. Furthermore, the chamber pressurizing time is about 4 times longer than the time of flame propagation.

Liquid phase fluid dynamic (methanol) run in the LaPorte alternative fuels development unit

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bharat L. Bhatt

1997-05-01

A fluid dynamic study was successfully completed in a bubble column at DOE's Alternative Fuels Development Unit (AFDU) in LaPorte, Texas. Significant fluid dynamic information was gathered at pilot scale during three weeks of Liquid Phase Methanol (LPMEOJP) operations in June 1995. In addition to the usual nuclear density and temperature measurements, unique differential pressure data were collected using Sandia's high-speed data acquisition system to gain insight on flow regime characteristics and bubble size distribution. Statistical analysis of the fluctuations in the pressure data suggests that the column was being operated in the churn turbulent regime at most of themore » velocities considered. Dynamic gas disengagement experiments showed a different behavior than seen in low-pressure, cold-flow work. Operation with a superficial gas velocity of 1.2 ft/sec was achieved during this run, with stable fluid dynamics and catalyst performance. Improvements included for catalyst activation in the design of the Clean Coal III LPMEOH{trademark} plant at Kingsport, Tennessee, were also confirmed. In addition, an alternate catalyst was demonstrated for LPMEOH{trademark}.« less

Development and numerical/experimental characterization of a lab-scale flat flame reactor allowing the analysis of pulverized solid fuel devolatilization and oxidation at high heating rates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lemaire, R., E-mail: romain.lemaire@mines-douai.fr; Menanteau, S.

2016-01-15

This paper deals with the thorough characterization of a new experimental test bench designed to study the devolatilization and oxidation of pulverized fuel particles in a wide range of operating conditions. This lab-scale facility is composed of a fuel feeding system, the functioning of which has been optimized by computational fluid dynamics. It allows delivering a constant and time-independent mass flow rate of fuel particles which are pneumatically transported to the central injector of a hybrid McKenna burner using a carrier gas stream that can be inert or oxidant depending on the targeted application. A premixed propane/air laminar flat flamemore » stabilized on the porous part of the burner is used to generate the hot gases insuring the heating of the central coal/carrier-gas jet with a thermal gradient similar to those found in industrial combustors (>10{sup 5} K/s). In the present work, results issued from numerical simulations performed a priori to characterize the velocity and temperature fields in the reaction chamber have been analyzed and confronted with experimental measurements carried out by coupling particle image velocimetry, thermocouple and two-color pyrometry measurements so as to validate the order of magnitude of the heating rate delivered by such a new test bench. Finally, the main features of the flat flame reactor we developed have been discussed with respect to those of another laboratory-scale system designed to study coal devolatilization at a high heating rate.« less

Development and numerical/experimental characterization of a lab-scale flat flame reactor allowing the analysis of pulverized solid fuel devolatilization and oxidation at high heating rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemaire, R.; Menanteau, S.

2016-01-01

This paper deals with the thorough characterization of a new experimental test bench designed to study the devolatilization and oxidation of pulverized fuel particles in a wide range of operating conditions. This lab-scale facility is composed of a fuel feeding system, the functioning of which has been optimized by computational fluid dynamics. It allows delivering a constant and time-independent mass flow rate of fuel particles which are pneumatically transported to the central injector of a hybrid McKenna burner using a carrier gas stream that can be inert or oxidant depending on the targeted application. A premixed propane/air laminar flat flame stabilized on the porous part of the burner is used to generate the hot gases insuring the heating of the central coal/carrier-gas jet with a thermal gradient similar to those found in industrial combustors (>105 K/s). In the present work, results issued from numerical simulations performed a priori to characterize the velocity and temperature fields in the reaction chamber have been analyzed and confronted with experimental measurements carried out by coupling particle image velocimetry, thermocouple and two-color pyrometry measurements so as to validate the order of magnitude of the heating rate delivered by such a new test bench. Finally, the main features of the flat flame reactor we developed have been discussed with respect to those of another laboratory-scale system designed to study coal devolatilization at a high heating rate.

Hydrogen-oxygen proton-exchange membrane fuel cells and electrolyzers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baldwin, R.; Pham, M.; Leonida, A.; Mcelroy, J.; Nalette, T.

1989-01-01

Hydrogen-oxygen SPE fuel cells and SPE electrolyzers (products of Hamilton Standard) both use a Proton-Exchange Membrane (PEM) as the sole electrolyte. The SPE cells have demonstrated a ten year life capability under load conditions. Ultimate life of PEM fuel cells and electrolyzers is primarily related to the chemical stability of the membrane. For perfluorocarbon proton-exchange membranes an accurate measure of the membrane stability is the fluoride loss rate. Millions of cell hours have contributed to establishing a relationship between fluroride loss rates and average expected ultimate cell life. Several features were introduced into SPE fuel cells and SPE electrolyzers such that applications requiring greater than or equal to 100,000 hours of life can be considered. Equally important as the ultimate life is the voltage stability of hydrogen-oxygen fuel cells and electrolyzers. Here again the features of SPE fuel cells and SPE electrolyzers have shown a cell voltage stability in the order of 1 microvolt per hour. That level of stability were demonstrated for tens of thousands of hours in SPE fuel cells at up to 500 amps per square foot (ASF) current density. The SPE electrolyzers have demonstrated the same at 1000 ASF. Many future extraterrestrial applications for fuel cells require that they be self recharged. To translate the proven SPE cell life and stability into a highly reliable extraterrestrial electrical energy storage system, a simplification of supporting equipment is required. Static phase separation, static fluid transport and static thermal control will be most useful in producting required system reliability. Although some 200,000 SPE fuel cell hours were recorded in earth orbit with static fluid phase separation, no SPE electrolyzer has, as yet, operated in space.

Complex fluid flow and heat transfer analysis inside a calandria based reactor using CFD technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulkarni, P. S.

2017-04-01

Series of numerical experiments have been carried out on a calandria based reactor for optimizing the design to increase the overall heat transfer efficiency by using Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) technique. Fluid flow and heat transfer inside the calandria is governed by many geometric and flow parameters like orientation of inlet, inlet mass flow rate, fuel channel configuration (in-line, staggered, etc.,), location of inlet and outlet, etc.,. It was well established that heat transfer is more wherever forced convection dominates but for geometries like calandria it is very difficult to achieve forced convection flow everywhere, intern it strongly depends on the direction of inlet jet. In the present paper the initial design was optimized with respect to inlet jet angle, the optimized design has been numerically tested for different heat load mass flow conditions. To further increase the heat removal capacity of a calandria, further numerical studies has been carried out for different inlet geometry. In all the analysis same overall geometry size and same number of tubes has been considered. The work gives good insight into the fluid flow and heat transfer inside the calandria and offer a guideline for optimizing the design and/or capacity enhancement of a present design.

CFE-2 ICF-9 Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-01-03

ISS038-E-025016 (3 Jan. 2014) --- NASA astronaut Rick Mastracchio, Expedition 38 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015545 (19 June 2014) --- European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Hopkins during CFE-2 Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2013-11-20

ISS038-E-005962 (19 Nov. 2013) --- NASA astronaut Michael Hopkins, Expedition 38 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the Capillary Flow Experiment-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Spectrometer for measuring the concentration of components in a fluid stream and method for using same

DOEpatents

Durham, M.D.; Stedman, D.H.; Ebner, T.G.; Burkhardt, M.R.

1991-12-03

A device and method are described for measuring the concentrations of components of a fluid stream. Preferably, the fluid stream is an in-situ gas stream, such as a fossil fuel fired flue gas in a smoke stack. The measurements are determined from the intensity of radiation over a selected range of radiation wavelengths using peak-to-trough calculations. The need for a reference intensity is eliminated. 15 figures.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015532 (19 June 2014) --- European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015523 (19 June 2014) --- European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015543 (19 June 2014) --- European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Capillary Flow Experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-06-19

ISS040-E-015536 (19 June 2014) --- European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, Expedition 40 flight engineer, conducts a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Monolithic fuel injector and related manufacturing method

DOEpatents

Ziminsky, Willy Steve [Greenville, SC; Johnson, Thomas Edward [Greenville, SC; Lacy, Benjamin [Greenville, SC; York, William David [Greenville, SC; Stevenson, Christian Xavier [Greenville, SC

2012-05-22

A monolithic fuel injection head for a fuel nozzle includes a substantially hollow vesicle body formed with an upstream end face, a downstream end face and a peripheral wall extending therebetween, an internal baffle plate extending radially outwardly from a downstream end of the bore, terminating short of the peripheral wall, thereby defining upstream and downstream fuel plenums in the vesicle body, in fluid communication by way of a radial gap between the baffle plate and the peripheral wall. A plurality of integral pre-mix tubes extend axially through the upstream and downstream fuel plenums in the vesicle body and through the baffle plate, with at least one fuel injection hole extending between each of the pre-mix tubes and the upstream fuel plenum, thereby enabling fuel in the upstream plenum to be injected into the plurality of pre-mix tubes. The fuel injection head is formed by direct metal laser sintering.

Multi-tube thermal fuse for nozzle protection from a flame holding or flashback event

DOEpatents

Lacy, Benjamin Paul; Davis, Jr., Lewis Berkley; Johnson, Thomas Edward; York, William David

2012-07-03

A protection system for a pre-mixing apparatus for a turbine engine, includes: a main body having an inlet portion, an outlet portion and an exterior wall that collectively establish a fuel delivery plenum; and a plurality of fuel mixing tubes that extend through at least a portion of the fuel delivery plenum, each of the plurality of fuel mixing tubes including at least one fuel feed opening fluidly connected to the fuel delivery plenum; at least one thermal fuse disposed on an exterior surface of at least one tube, the at least one thermal fuse including a material that will melt upon ignition of fuel within the at least one tube and cause a diversion of fuel from the fuel feed opening to at least one bypass opening. A method and a turbine engine in accordance with the protection system are also provided.

Investigation of Zircaloy-2 oxidation model for SFP accident analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nemoto, Yoshiyuki; Kaji, Yoshiyuki; Ogawa, Chihiro; Kondo, Keietsu; Nakashima, Kazuo; Kanazawa, Toru; Tojo, Masayuki

2017-05-01

The authors previously conducted thermogravimetric analyses on Zircaloy-2 in air. By using the thermogravimetric data, an oxidation model was constructed in this study so that it can be applied for the modeling of cladding degradation in spent fuel pool (SFP) severe accident condition. For its validation, oxidation tests of long cladding tube were conducted, and computational fluid dynamics analyses using the constructed oxidation model were proceeded to simulate the experiments. In the oxidation tests, high temperature thermal gradient along the cladding axis was applied and air flow rates in testing chamber were controlled to simulate hypothetical SFP accidents. The analytical outputs successfully reproduced the growth of oxide film and porous oxide layer on the claddings in oxidation tests, and validity of the oxidation model was proved. Influence of air flow rate for the oxidation behavior was thought negligible in the conditions investigated in this study.

Immobilization of iodine in concrete

DOEpatents

Clark, Walter E.; Thompson, Clarence T.

1977-04-12

A method for immobilizing fission product radioactive iodine recovered from irradiated nuclear fuel comprises combining material comprising water, Portland cement and about 3-20 wt. % iodine as Ba(IO.sub.3).sub.2 to provide a fluid mixture and allowing the fluid mixture to harden, said Ba(IO.sub.3).sub.2 comprising said radioactive iodine. An article for solid waste disposal comprises concrete prepared by this method. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention was made in the course of, or under a contract with the Energy Research and Development Administration. It relates in general to reactor waste solidification and more specifically to the immobilization of fission product radioactive iodine recovered from irradiated nuclear fuel for underground storage.

Active microchannel heat exchanger

DOEpatents

Tonkovich, Anna Lee Y [Pasco, WA; Roberts, Gary L [West Richland, WA; Call, Charles J [Pasco, WA; Wegeng, Robert S [Richland, WA; Wang, Yong [Richland, WA

2001-01-01

The present invention is an active microchannel heat exchanger with an active heat source and with microchannel architecture. The microchannel heat exchanger has (a) an exothermic reaction chamber; (b) an exhaust chamber; and (c) a heat exchanger chamber in thermal contact with the exhaust chamber, wherein (d) heat from the exothermic reaction chamber is convected by an exothermic reaction exhaust through the exhaust chamber and by conduction through a containment wall to the working fluid in the heat exchanger chamber thereby raising a temperature of the working fluid. The invention is particularly useful as a liquid fuel vaporizer and/or a steam generator for fuel cell power systems, and as a heat source for sustaining endothermic chemical reactions and initiating exothermic reactions.

Composition-explicit distillation curves of aviation fuel JP-8 and a coal-based jet fuel

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Beverly L. Smith; Thomas J. Bruno

2007-09-15

We have recently introduced several important improvements in the measurement of distillation curves for complex fluids. The modifications to the classical measurement provide for (1) a composition explicit data channel for each distillate fraction (for both qualitative and quantitative analysis); (2) temperature measurements that are true thermodynamic state points; (3) temperature, volume, and pressure measurements of low uncertainty suitable for an equation of state development; (4) consistency with a century of historical data; (5) an assessment of the energy content of each distillate fraction; (6) a trace chemical analysis of each distillate fraction; and (7) a corrosivity assessment of eachmore » distillate fraction. The most significant modification is achieved with a new sampling approach that allows precise qualitative as well as quantitative analyses of each fraction, on the fly. We have applied the new method to the measurement of rocket propellant, gasoline, and jet fuels. In this paper, we present the application of the technique to representative batches of the military aviation fuel JP-8, and also to a coal-derived fuel developed as a potential substitute. We present not only the distillation curves but also a chemical characterization of each fraction and discuss the contrasts between the two fluids. 26 refs., 5 figs., 6 tabs.« less

Engine control system having fuel-based adjustment

DOEpatents

Willi, Martin L [Dunlap, IL; Fiveland, Scott B [Metamora, IL; Montgomery, David T [Edelstein, IL; Gong, Weidong [Dunlap, IL

2011-03-15

A control system for an engine having a cylinder is disclosed having an engine valve configured to affect a fluid flow of the cylinder, an actuator configured to move the engine valve, and an in-cylinder sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a characteristic of fuel entering the cylinder. The control system also has a controller in communication with the actuator and the sensor. The controller is configured to determine the characteristic of the fuel based on the signal and selectively regulate the actuator to adjust a timing of the engine valve based on the characteristic of the fuel.

Fuel Cell Development and Test Laboratory | Energy Systems Integration

Science.gov Websites

Facility | NREL Fuel Cell Development and Test Laboratory Fuel Cell Development and Test Laboratory The Energy System Integration Facility's Fuel Cell Development and Test Laboratory supports fuel a fuel cell test in the Fuel Cell Development and Test Laboratory. Capability Hubs The Fuel Cell

Disabled personnel emergency-heating system. Final report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Van Dine, N.

1974-12-16

This progress report describes a receiving well for the operating fuel supply (two provided) designed within the unit to permit parasitic heat loss from the system to be captured by the fuel supply. The Zero can housing provides adequate volume to accommodate stowage of the fluid-flow umbilicals for connection of the heater system to the tubulated casualty bag liner.

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Test Your Alternative Fuel IQ

Science.gov Websites

Test Your Alternative Fuel IQ to someone by E-mail Share Alternative Fuels Data Center: Test Your Alternative Fuel IQ on Facebook Tweet about Alternative Fuels Data Center: Test Your Alternative Fuel IQ on Twitter Bookmark Alternative Fuels Data Center: Test Your Alternative Fuel IQ on Google Bookmark

Coal fired fluid bed module for a single elevation style fluid bed power plant

DOEpatents

Waryasz, Richard E.

1979-01-01

A fluidized bed for the burning of pulverized fuel having a specific waterwall arrangement that comprises a structurally reinforced framework of wall tubes. The wall tubes are reversely bent from opposite sides and then bonded together to form tie rods that extend across the bed to support the lateral walls thereof.

40 CFR 60.482-2 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...; or (ii) Equipped with a barrier fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas... in VOC service. (3) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of...) Designate the visual indications of liquids dripping as a leak. (5)(i) Each sensor as described in paragraph...

40 CFR 63.1007 - Pumps in light liquid service standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... sensor that indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. The owner or... reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed vent system to a control... liquid service. (iv) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the...

40 CFR 65.107 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... frequency of drips and to the sensor that indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or... or fuel gas system or connected by a closed vent system to a control device that complies with the... equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. (v...

40 CFR 60.482-2 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...; or (ii) Equipped with a barrier fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas... in VOC service. (3) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of...) Designate the visual indications of liquids dripping as a leak. (5)(i) Each sensor as described in paragraph...

40 CFR 63.1007 - Pumps in light liquid service standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... sensor that indicates failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. The owner or... reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or connected by a closed vent system to a control... liquid service. (iv) Each barrier fluid system is equipped with a sensor that will detect failure of the...

40 CFR 63.163 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) Equipped with a barrier fluid degassing reservoir that is routed to a process or fuel gas system or... with a sensor that will detect failure of the seal system, the barrier fluid system, or both. (4) Each... per million or greater is measured, a leak is detected. (5) Each sensor as described in paragraph (e...

Wireless Fluid-Level Sensors for Harsh Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodward, Stanley E.

2009-01-01

Magnetic-field-response sensors have been developed for use in measuring levels of fluids under extreme conditions. The sensors work without wire connections or direct physical contact with power sources, microprocessors, data-acquisition equipment, or electrical circuitry. For fuel-level sensors, the absence of wire connections offers an important safety advantage in elimination of potential ignition sources.

40 CFR 600.107-08 - Fuel specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Exhaust Emission Test Procedures § 600.107-08 Fuel specifications. (a) The test fuel specifications for... given in paragraph (b) of this section. (b)(1) Diesel test fuel used for cold temperature FTP testing... alternative fuel for cold temperature FTP testing. (c) Test fuels representing fuel types for which there are...

40 CFR 600.107-08 - Fuel specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Exhaust Emission Test Procedures § 600.107-08 Fuel specifications. (a) The test fuel specifications for... given in paragraph (b) of this section. (b)(1) Diesel test fuel used for cold temperature FTP testing... alternative fuel for cold temperature FTP testing. (c) Test fuels representing fuel types for which there are...

40 CFR 600.107-08 - Fuel specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Exhaust Emission Test Procedures § 600.107-08 Fuel specifications. (a) The test fuel specifications for... given in paragraph (b) of this section. (b)(1) Diesel test fuel used for cold temperature FTP testing... alternative fuel for cold temperature FTP testing. (c) Test fuels representing fuel types for which there are...

Design Study of a Modular Gas-Cooled, Closed-Brayton Cycle Reactor for Marine Use

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

materials in the core and surroundings. To investigate this design point in the marine variant I developed the program HEAT.BAS to perform a one-dimensional...helium as the working fluid. The core is a graphite moderated, epithermal spectrum reactor, using TRISO fuel particles in extruded graphite fuel elements...The fuel is highly enriched U2315 . The containment is shaped in an inverted ’T’ with two sections. The upper section contains the reactor core

Pulsed jet combustion generator for non-premixed charge engines

DOEpatents

Oppenheim, A. K.; Stewart, H. E.

1990-01-01

A device for introducing fuel into the head space of cylinder of non-premixed charge (diesel) engines is disclosed, which distributes fuel in atomized form in a plume, whose fluid dynamic properties are such that the compression heated air in the cylinder head space is entrained into the interior of the plume where it is mixed with and ignites the fuel in the plume interior, to thereby control combustion, particularly by use of a multiplicity of individually controllable devices per cylinder.

Static regenerative fuel cell system for use in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levy, Alexander H. (Inventor); VanDine, Leslie L. (Inventor); Trocciola, John C. (Inventor)

1989-01-01

The cell stack can be operated as a fuel cell stack or as an electrolysis cell stack. The stack consists of a series of alternate fuel cell subassemblies with intervening electrolysis cell subassemblies, and interspersed cooling plates. The water produced and consumed in the two modes of operation migrates between adjacent cell subassemblies. The component plates are annular with a central hydrogen plenum and integral internal oxygen manifolds. No fluid pumps are needed to operate the stack in either mode.

The dependence of Ammonium-Nitrate Fuel-Oil (ANFO) detonation on confinement

DOE PAGES

Jackson, Scott I.

2016-11-17

As detonation is a coupled fluid-chemical process, flow divergence inside the detonation reaction zone can strongly influence detonation velocity and energy release. Such divergence is responsible for the diameter-effect and failure-diameter phenomena in condensed-phase explosives and particularly dominant in detonation of nonideal explosives such as Ammonium Nitrate and Fuel Oil (ANFO). In this study, the effect of reaction zone flow divergence on ANFO detonation was explored through variation of the inert confinement and explosive diameter in the rate-stick geometry with cylinder expansion experiments. New tests are discussed and compared to prior experiments. Presented results include the detonation velocity as amore » function of diameter and confinement, reaction zone times, detonation product isentropes and energies, as well as sonic surface pressures and velocities. Product energy densities and isentropes were found to increase with detonation velocity, indicating more complete chemical reaction with increased detonation velocity. In addition, detonation reaction zone times were found to scale with the acoustic transit time of the confiner wall and used to show that the ANFO diameter effect scaled with the reaction zone time for a particle along the flow centerline, regardless of the confinement. Such a result indicates that the ANFO reaction mechanisms are sufficiently slow that the centerline fluid expansion timescale is a limiting factor controlling detonation velocity and energy release.« less

In Vitro Dissolution Tests of Plutonium and Americium Containing Contamination Originating From ZPPR Fuel Plates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

William F. Bauer; Brian K. Schuetz; Gary M. Huestis

2012-09-01

Assessing the extent of internal dose is of concern whenever workers are exposed to airborne radionuclides or other contaminants. Internal dose determinations depend upon a reasonable estimate of the expected biological half-life of the contaminants in the respiratory tract. One issue with refractory elements is determining the dissolution rate of the element. Actinides such as plutonium (Pu) and Americium (Am) tend to be very refractory and can have biological half-lives of tens of years. In the event of an exposure, the dissolution rates of the radionuclides of interest needs to be assessed in order to assign the proper internal dosemore » estimates. During the November 2011 incident at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) involving a ZPPR fuel plate, air filters in a constant air monitor (CAM) and a giraffe filter apparatus captured airborne particulate matter. These filters were used in dissolution rate experiments to determine the apparent dissolution half-life of Pu and Am in simulated biological fluids. This report describes these experiments and the results. The dissolution rates were found to follow a three term exponential decay equation. Differences were noted depending upon the nature of the biological fluid simulant. Overall, greater than 95% of the Pu and 93% of the Am were in a very slow dissolving component with dissolution half-lives of over 10 years.« less

Simplified jet fuel reaction mechanism for lean burn combustion application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Chi-Ming; Kundu, Krishna; Ghorashi, Bahman

1993-01-01

Successful modeling of combustion and emissions in gas turbine engine combustors requires an adequate description of the reaction mechanism. Detailed mechanisms contain a large number of chemical species participating simultaneously in many elementary kinetic steps. Current computational fluid dynamic models must include fuel vaporization, fuel-air mixing, chemical reactions, and complicated boundary geometries. A five-step Jet-A fuel mechanism which involves pyrolysis and subsequent oxidation of paraffin and aromatic compounds is presented. This mechanism is verified by comparing with Jet-A fuel ignition delay time experimental data, and species concentrations obtained from flametube experiments. This five-step mechanism appears to be better than the current one- and two-step mechanisms.

Conjugate Heat Transfer Analyses on the Manifold for Ramjet Fuel Injectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Xiao-Yen J.

2006-01-01

Three-dimensional conjugate heat transfer analyses on the manifold located upstream of the ramjet fuel injector are performed using CFdesign, a finite-element computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. The flow field of the hot fuel (JP-7) flowing through the manifold is simulated and the wall temperature of the manifold is computed. The three-dimensional numerical results of the fuel temperature are compared with those obtained using a one-dimensional analysis based on empirical equations, and they showed a good agreement. The numerical results revealed that it takes around 30 to 40 sec to reach the equilibrium where the fuel temperature has dropped about 3 F from the inlet to the exit of the manifold.

System for adding sulfur to a fuel cell stack system for improved fuel cell stability

DOEpatents

Mukerjee, Subhasish; Haltiner, Jr., Karl J; Weissman, Jeffrey G

2013-08-13

A system for adding sulfur to a reformate stream feeding a fuel cell stack, having a sulfur source for providing sulfur to the reformate stream and a metering device in fluid connection with the sulfur source and the reformate stream. The metering device injects sulfur from the sulfur source to the reformate stream at a predetermined rate, thereby providing a conditioned reformate stream to the fuel cell stack. The system provides a conditioned reformate stream having a predetermined sulfur concentration that gives an acceptable balance of minimal drop in initial power with the desired maximum stability of operation over prolonged periods for the fuel cell stack.

Emission FTIR analyses of thin microscopic patches of jet fuel residue deposited on heated metal surface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lauer, J. L.; Vogel, P.

1984-01-01

Deposits laid down in patches on metal strips in a high pressure/high temperature fuel system simulator operated with aerated fuel at varying flow rates were analyzed by emission FTIR in terms of functional groups. Significant differences were found in the spectra and amounts of deposits derived from fuels to which small concentrations of oxygen-, nitrogen-, or sulfur-containing heterocyclics or metal naphthenates were added. The spectra of deposits generated on strips by heating fuels and air in a closed container were very different from those of the flowing fluid deposits. One such closed-container dodecane deposit on silver gave a strong surface-enhanced Raman spectrum.

A Multi-Dimensional Heat Transfer Model of a Tie-Tube and Hexagonal Fuel Element for Nuclear Thermal Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gomez, C. F.; Mireles, O. R.; Stewart, E.

2016-01-01

The Space Capable Cryogenic Thermal Engine (SCCTE) effort considers a nuclear thermal rocket design based around a Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) design fission reactor. The reactor core is comprised of bundled hexagonal fuel elements that directly heat hydrogen for expansion in a thrust chamber and hexagonal tie-tubes that house zirconium hydride moderator mass for the purpose of thermalizing fast neutrons resulting from fission events. Created 3D steady state Hex fuel rod model with 1D flow channels. Hand Calculation were used to set up initial conditions for fluid flow. The Hex Fuel rod uses 1D flow paths to model the channels using empirical correlations for heat transfer in a pipe. Created a 2-D axisymmetric transient to steady state model using the CFD turbulent flow and Heat Transfer module in COMSOL. This model was developed to find and understand the hydrogen flow that might effect the thermal gradients axially and at the end of the tie tube where the flow turns and enters an annulus. The Hex fuel rod and Tie tube models were made based on requirements given to us by CSNR and the SCCTE team. The models helped simplify and understand the physics and assumptions. Using pipe correlations reduced the complexity of the 3-D fuel rod model and is numerically more stable and computationally more time-efficient compared to the CFD approach. The 2-D axisymmetric tie tube model can be used as a reference "Virtual test model" for comparing and improving 3-D Models.

CFE-2 Experiment ICF-5 in the Node 2

NASA Image and Video Library

2014-01-03

ISS038-E-025000 (3 Jan. 2014) --- NASA astronaut Rick Mastracchio, Expedition 38 flight engineer, speaks in a microphone while conducting a session with the Capillary Flow Experiment (CFE-2) in the Harmony node of the International Space Station. CFE is a suite of fluid physics experiments that investigate how fluids behave in microgravity which could benefit water and fuel delivery systems on future spacecraft. Scientists designed the CFE-2 to study properties of fluids and bubbles inside containers with a specific 3-D geometry.

Natural Frequency Testing and Model Correlation of Rocket Engine Structures in Liquid Hydrogen - Phase I, Cantilever Beam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Andrew M.; DeLessio, Jennifer L.; Jacobs, Preston W.

2018-01-01

Many structures in the launch vehicle industry operate in liquid hydrogen (LH2), from the hydrogen fuel tanks through the ducts and valves and into the pump sides of the turbopumps. Calculating the structural dynamic response of these structures is critical for successful qualification of this hardware, but accurate knowledge of the natural frequencies is based entirely on numerical or analytical predictions of frequency reduction due to the added-fluid-mass effect because testing in LH2 has always been considered too difficult and dangerous. This fluid effect is predicted to be approximately 4-5% using analytical formulations for simple cantilever beams. As part of a comprehensive test/analysis program to more accurately assess pump inducers operating in LH2, a series of frequency tests in LH2 were performed at NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center's unique cryogenic test facility. These frequency tests are coupled with modal tests in air and water to provide critical information not only on the mass effect of LH2, but also the cryogenic temperature effect on Young's Modulus for which the data is not extensive. The authors are unaware of any other reported natural frequency testing in this media. In addition to the inducer, a simple cantilever beam was also tested in the tank to provide a more easily modeled geometry as well as one that has an analytical solution for the mass effect. This data will prove critical for accurate structural dynamic analysis of these structures, which operate in a highly-dynamic environment.

Diesel fuel blending components from mixture of waste animal fat and light cycle oil from fluid catalytic cracking.

PubMed

Hancsók, Jenő; Sági, Dániel; Valyon, József

2018-06-11

Sustainable production of renewable fuels has become an imperative goal but also remains a huge challenge faced by the chemical industry. A variety of low-value, renewable sources of carbon such as wastes and by-products must be evaluated for their potential as feedstock to achieve this goal. Hydrogenation of blends comprising waste animal fat (≤70 wt%) and low-value fluid catalytic cracking light cycle oil (≥30 wt%), with a total aromatic content of 87.2 wt%, was studied on a commercial sulfided NiMo/Al 2 O 3 catalyst. The fuel fraction in the diesel boiling range was separated by fractional distillation from the organic liquid product obtained from the catalytic conversion of the blend of 70 wt% waste animal fat and 30 wt% light cycle oil. Diesel fuel of the best quality was obtained under the following reaction conditions: T = 615-635 K, P = 6 MPa, LHSV = 1.0 h -1 , H 2 /feedstock ratio = 600 Nm 3 /m 3 . The presence of fat in the feedstock was found to promote the conversion of light cycle oil to a paraffinic blending component for diesel fuel. Thus, a value-added alternative fuel with high biocontent can be obtained from low-value refinery stream and waste animal fat. The resultant disposal of waste animal fat, and the use of fuel containing less fossil carbon for combustion helps reduce the emission of pollutants. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experimentation and Modeling of Jet A Thermal Stability in a Heated Tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khodabandeh, Julia W.

2005-01-01

High performance aircraft typically use hydrocarbon fuel to regeneratively cool the airframe and engine components. As the coolant temperatures increase, the fuel may react with dissolved oxygen forming deposits that limit the regenerative cooling system performance. This study investigates the deposition of Jet A using a thermal stability experiment and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling. The experimental portion of this study is performed with a high Reynolds number thermal stability (HiRets) tester in which fuel passes though an electrically heated tube and the fuel outlet temperature is held constant. If the thermal stability temperature of the fuel is exceeded, deposits form and adhere to the inside of the tube creating an insulating layer between the tube and the fuel. The HiRets tester measures the tube outer wall temperatures near the fuel outlet to report the effect of deposition occurring inside the tube. Final deposits are also estimated with a carbon burn off analysis. The CFD model was developed and used to simulate the fluid dynamics, heat transfer, chemistry, and transport of the deposit precursors. The model is calibrated to the experiment temperature results and carbon burn-off deposition results. The model results show that the dominant factor in deposition is the heated wall temperature and that most of the deposits are formed in the laminar sublayer. The models predicted a 7.0E-6 kilograms per square meter-sec deposition rate, which compared well to the carbon burn-off analysis deposition rate of 1.0E-6 kilograms per square meter-sec.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gleicher, Frederick; Ortensi, Javier; DeHart, Mark

Accurate calculation of desired quantities to predict fuel behavior requires the solution of interlinked equations representing different physics. Traditional fuels performance codes often rely on internal empirical models for the pin power density and a simplified boundary condition on the cladding edge. These simplifications are performed because of the difficulty of coupling applications or codes on differing domains and mapping the required data. To demonstrate an approach closer to first principles, the neutronics application Rattlesnake and the thermal hydraulics application RELAP-7 were coupled to the fuels performance application BISON under the master application MAMMOTH. A single fuel pin was modeledmore » based on the dimensions of a Westinghouse 17x17 fuel rod. The simulation consisted of a depletion period of 1343 days, roughly equal to three full operating cycles, followed by a station blackout (SBO) event. The fuel rod was depleted for 1343 days for a near constant total power loading of 65.81 kW. After 1343 days the fission power was reduced to zero (simulating a reactor shut-down). Decay heat calculations provided the time-varying energy source after this time. For this problem, Rattlesnake, BISON, and RELAP-7 are coupled under MAMMOTH in a split operator approach. Each system solves its physics on a separate mesh and, for RELAP-7 and BISON, on only a subset of the full problem domain. Rattlesnake solves the neutronics over the whole domain that includes the fuel, cladding, gaps, water, and top and bottom rod holders. Here BISON is applied to the fuel and cladding with a 2D axi-symmetric domain, and RELAP-7 is applied to the flow of the circular outer water channel with a set of 1D flow equations. The mesh on the Rattlesnake side can either be 3D (for low order transport) or 2D (for diffusion). BISON has a matching ring structure mesh for the fuel so both the power density and local burn up are copied accurately from Rattlesnake. At each depletion time step, Rattlesnake calculates a power density, fission density rate, burn-up distribution and fast flux based on the current water density and fuel temperature. These are then mapped to the BISON mesh for a fuels performance solve. BISON calculates the fuel temperature and cladding surface temperature based upon the current power density and bulk fluid temperature. RELAP-7 then calculates the fluid temperature, water density fraction and water phase velocity based upon the cladding surface temperature. The fuel temperature and the fluid density are then passed back to Rattlesnake for another neutronics calculation. Six Picard or fixed-point style iterations are preformed in this manner to obtain consistent tightly coupled and stable results. For this paper a set of results from the detailed calculation are provided for both during depletion and the SBO event. We demonstrate that a detailed calculation closer to first principles can be done under MAMMOTH between different applications on differing domains.« less

Analysis of features of hydrodynamics and heat transfer in the fuel assembly of prospective sodium reactor with a high rate of reproduction in the uranium-plutonium fuel cycle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lubina, A. S.; Subbotin, A. S.; Sedov, A. A.; Frolov, A. A.

2016-12-01

The fast sodium reactor fuel assembly (FA) with U-Pu-Zr metallic fuel is described. In comparison with a "classical" fast reactor, this FA contains thin fuel rods and a wider fuel rod grid. Studies of the fluid dynamics and the heat transfer were carried out for such a new FA design. The verification of the ANSYS CFX code was provided for determination of the velocity, pressure, and temperature fields in the different channels. The calculations in the cells and in the FA were carried out using the model of shear stress transport (SST) selected at the stage of verification. The results of the hydrodynamics and heat transfer calculations have been analyzed.

Light-water-reactor safety research program. Quarterly progress report, July--September 1975

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1975-01-01

Progress is summarized in the following research and development areas: (1) loss-of-coolant accident research; heat transfer and fluid dynamics; (2) transient fuel response and fission-product release; and (3) mechanical properties of Zircaloy containing oxygen. Also included is an appendix on Kinetics of Fission Gas and Volatile Fission-product Behavior under Transient Conditions in LWR Fuel.

Computer technique for simulating the combustion of cellulose and other fuels

Treesearch

Andrew M. Stein; Brian W. Bauske

1971-01-01

A computer method has been developed for simulating the combustion of wood and other cellulosic fuels. The products of combustion are used as input for a convection model that slimulates real fires. The method allows the chemical process to proceed to equilibrium and then examines the effects of mass addition and repartitioning on the fluid mechanics of the convection...

40 CFR 65.107 - Standards: Pumps in light liquid service.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... or fuel gas system or connected by a closed vent system to a control device that complies with the requirements of § 65.115; or (C) Equipped with a closed-loop system that purges the barrier fluid into a... section. (3) Routed to a process or fuel gas system or equipped with a closed vent system. Any pump that...

Linking 3D spatial models of fuels and fire: Effects of spatial heterogeneity on fire behavior

Treesearch

Russell A. Parsons; William E. Mell; Peter McCauley

2011-01-01

Crownfire endangers fire fighters and can have severe ecological consequences. Prediction of fire behavior in tree crowns is essential to informed decisions in fire management. Current methods used in fire management do not address variability in crown fuels. New mechanistic physics-based fire models address convective heat transfer with computational fluid dynamics (...

Nanofiber-deposited porous platinum enables glucose fuel cell anodes with high current density in body fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frei, Maxi; Erben, Johannes; Martin, Julian; Zengerle, Roland; Kerzenmacher, Sven

2017-09-01

The poisoning of platinum anodes by body-fluid constituents such as amino acids is currently the main hurdle preventing the application of abiotic glucose fuel cells as battery-independent power supply for medical implants. We present a novel anode material that enables continuous operation of glucose oxidation anodes in horse serum for at least 30 days at a current density of (7.2 ± 1.9) μA cm-2. The fabrication process is based on the electro-deposition of highly porous platinum onto a 3-dimensional carbon nanofiber support, leading to approximately 2-fold increased electrode roughness factors (up to 16500 ± 2300). The material's superior performance is not only related to its high specific surface area, but also to an improved catalytic activity and/or poisoning resistance. Presumably, this results from the micro- and nanostructure of the platinum deposits. This represents a major step forward in the development of implantable glucose fuel cells based on long-term stable platinum electrodes.

Cryogenic and Simulated Fuel Jet Breakup in Argon, Helium and Nitrogen Gas Flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingebo, Robert D.

1995-01-01

Two-phase flow atomization of liquid nitrogen jets was experimentally investigated. They were co-axially injected into high-velocity gas flows of helium, nitrogen and argon, respectively, and atomized internally inside a two-fluid fuel nozzle. Cryogenic sprays with relatively high specific surface areas were produced, i.e., ratios of surface area to volume were fairly high. This was indicated by values of reciprocal Sauter mean diameters, RSMD's, as measured with a scattered- light scanning instrument developed at NASA Lewis Research Center. Correlating expressions were derived for the three atomizing gases over a gas temperature range of 111 to 422 K. Also, the correlation was extended to include waterjet breakup data that had been previously obtained in simulating fuel jet breakup in sonic velocity gas flow. The final correlating expression included a new dimensionless molecular-scale acceleration group. It was needed to correlate RSMD data, for LN2 and H2O sprays, with the fluid properties of the liquid jets and atomizing gases used in this investigation.

Dermatitis and aircrew.

PubMed

Leggat, Peter A; Smith, Derek R

2006-01-01

Dermatitis is a common problem both in the workplace and in the general community. Airline personnel represent a novel occupational group as they are also exposed to a wide range of potential chemical irritants and other aggravating factors, such as low relative humidity and airborne pollutants. Common skin irritants include dielectric fluids from electrodischarge machining, 'prepreg' materials and sealants in aircraft manufacture, kerosene and various jet-fuel components. Commercial jet fuel is a complex mixture of aliphatic and aromatic compounds, and there is potential for dermal exposure among refueling and maintenance crew. Low relative humidity appears to exacerbate dermatitis amongst aircrew, especially on longer flight durations. Pilots may also be exposed to additional skin irritants outside of the cabin environment, such as ethylene glycol, hydraulic fluid or jet fuel, all of which may be encountered during routine inspections of aircraft before and after flight. Given these factors, preventive measures must carefully consider the undoubted potential for contact with irritants and allergens, which may lead to dermatitis in airline personnel.

Simulating Electrochemistry of Hydrothermal Vents on Enceladus and Other Ocean Worlds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barge, L. M.; Krause, F. C.; Jones, J. P.; Billings, K.; Sobron, P.

2017-12-01

Gradients generated in hydrothermal systems provide a significant source of free energy for chemosynthetic life, and may play a role in present-day habitability on ocean worlds such as Enceladus that are thought to host hydrothermal activity. Hydrothermal vents are similar in some ways to typical fuel cell devices: redox/pH gradients between seawater and hydrothermal fluid are analogous to the oxidant and fuel reservoirs; conductive natural mineral deposits are analogous to electrodes; and, in hydrothermal chimneys, the porous chimney wall can function as a separator or ion-exchange membrane. Electrochemistry, founded on quantitative study of redox and other chemical disequilibria as well as the chemistry of interfaces, is uniquely suited to studying these systems. We have performed electrochemical studies to better understand the catalytic potential of seafloor minerals and vent chimneys, using samples from a black smoker vent chimney as an initial demonstration. Fuel cell experiments with electrodes made from black smoker chimney material accurately simulated the redox reactions that occur in a geological setting with this particular catalyst. Similar methods with other geo-catalysts (natural or synthetic) could be utilized to test which redox reactions or metabolisms could be driven in other hydrothermal systems, including putative vent systems on other worlds.

Numerical Simulation of Vitiation Effects on a Hydrogen-Fueled Dual-Mode Scramjet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vyas, Manan A.; Engblom, William A.; Georgiadis, Nicholas J.; Trefny, Charles J.; Bhagwandin, Vishal A.

2010-01-01

The Wind-US computational fluid dynamics (CFD) flow solver was used to simulate dual-mode direct-connect ramjet/scramjet engine flowpath tests conducted in the University of Virginia (UVa) Supersonic Combustion Facility (SCF). The objective was to develop a computational capability within Wind-US to aid current hypersonic research and provide insight to flow as well as chemistry details that are not resolved by instruments available. Computational results are compared with experimental data to validate the accuracy of the numerical modeling. These results include two fuel-off non-reacting and eight fuel-on reacting cases with different equivalence ratios, split between one set with a clean (non-vitiated) air supply and the other set with a vitiated air supply (12 percent H2O vapor). The Peters and Rogg hydrogen-air chemical kinetics model was selected for the scramjet simulations. A limited sensitivity study was done to investigate the choice of turbulence model and inviscid flux scheme and led to the selection of the k-epsilon model and Harten, Lax and van Leer (for contact waves) (HLLC) scheme for general use. Simulation results show reasonably good agreement with experimental data and the overall vitiation effects were captured.

A Summary of NASA and USAF Hypergolic Propellant Related Spills And Fires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nufer, B. M.

2009-01-01

Hypergolic fluids are toxic liquids that react spontaneously and violently when they contact each other. These fluids are used in many different rocket and aircraft systems for propulsion and hydraulic power including, orbiting satellites, manned spacecraft, military aircraft, and deep space probes. Hypergolic fuels include hydrazine (N 2H4) and its derivatives including monomethylhydrazine (MMH), unsymmetrical di-methylhydrazine (UDMH), and Aerozine 50 (A-50), which is an equal mixture of N2H4 and UDMH. The oxidizer used with these fuels is usually nitrogen tetroxide (N2O4), also known as di-nitrogen tetroxide or NTO, and various blends of N2O4 with nitric oxide (NO). Several documented, unintentional hypergolic fluid spills and fires related to the Apollo Program, the Space Shuttle Program, and several other programs from approximately 1968 through the spring of 2009 have been studied for the primary purpose of extracting the lessons learned. Spill sites include KSC, JSC, WSTF, CCAFS, EAFB, McConnell AFB, and VAFB.

Performance of Fuels, Lubricants, and Associated Products Used during Operation Desert Shield/Storm

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-08-01

to have enabled the. units to perform their mission. However, most units reported taking enough hydi aulic fluid with them to Southwest Asia, while...Fluid Lubncant for Extreme Climates " Sand does not mick to at Did not work good on 30mm MG on Apache Did not work for "coax" guns on Bradley Crew

In-membrane micro fuel cell

DOEpatents

Omosebi, Ayokunle; Besser, Ronald

2016-09-06

An in-membrane micro fuel cell comprises an electrically-insulating membrane that is permissive to the flow of cations, such as protons, and a pair of electrodes deposited on channels formed in the membrane. The channels are arranged as conduits for fluids, and define a membrane ridge between the channels. The electrodes are porous and include catalysts for promoting the liberation of a proton and an electron from a chemical species and/or or the recombination of a proton and an electron with a chemical specie. The fuel cell may be provided a biosensor, an electrochemical sensor, a microfluidic device, or other microscale devices fabricated in the fuel cell membrane.

Effect of buoyancy on fuel containment in an open-cycle gas-core nuclear rocket engine.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Putre, H. A.

1971-01-01

Analysis aimed at determining the scaling laws for the buoyancy effect on fuel containment in an open-cycle gas-core nuclear rocket engine, so conducted that experimental conditions can be related to engine conditions. The fuel volume fraction in a short coaxial flow cavity is calculated with a programmed numerical solution of the steady Navier-Stokes equations for isothermal, variable density fluid mixing. A dimensionless parameter B, called the Buoyancy number, was found to correlate the fuel volume fraction for large accelerations and various density ratios. This parameter has the value B = 0 for zero acceleration, and B = 350 for typical engine conditions.

Carbon-13 and proton nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of shale-derived refinery products and jet fuels and of experimental referee broadened-specification jet fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dalling, D. K.; Bailey, B. K.; Pugmire, R. J.

1984-01-01

A proton and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) study was conducted of Ashland shale oil refinery products, experimental referee broadened-specification jet fuels, and of related isoprenoid model compounds. Supercritical fluid chromatography techniques using carbon dioxide were developed on a preparative scale, so that samples could be quantitatively separated into saturates and aromatic fractions for study by NMR. An optimized average parameter treatment was developed, and the NMR results were analyzed in terms of the resulting average parameters; formulation of model mixtures was demonstrated. Application of novel spectroscopic techniques to fuel samples was investigated.

Slush hydrogen quantity gaging and mixing for the National Aerospace Plane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudland, R. S.; Kroenke, I. M.; Urbach, A. R.

The National Aerospace Plane (NASP) design team has selected slush hydrogen as the fuel needed to power the high-speed ramjet-scramjet engines. Use of slush hydrogen rather than normal hydrogen provides significant improvements in density and cooling capacity for the aircraft. The loading of slush hydrogen in the NASP tank must be determined accurately to allow the vehicle size and weight to be kept to a minimum. A unique sensor developed at Ball to measure the slush density will be used in each region of the hydrogen tank to accurately determine the total mass of fuel loaded in the vehicle. The design, analysis, and test configuration for the mixing system is described in this paper. The mixing system is used to eliminate large-scale disturbances in the fluid produced by the large heat flux through the wall. The mixer also provides off-bottom suspension of the solids to create a more uniform slush mixture. The mixer design uses a pump to supply flow to an array of jets that produce mixing throughout the tank. Density sensors will be used in the test configuration to evaluate the mixing effectiveness.

Application of Pinniped Vibrissae to Aeropropulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shyam, Vikram (Principal Investigator); Ameri, Ali; Poinsatte, Phil; Thurman, Doug; Wroblewski, Adam; Snyder, Chris

2015-01-01

Vibrissae of Phoca Vitulina (Harbor Seal) and Mirounga Angustirostris (Elephant Seal) possess undulations along their length. Harbor Seal Vibrissae were shown to reduce vortex induced vibrations and reduce drag compared to appropriately scaled cylinders and ellipses. Samples of Harbor Seal vibrissae, Elephant Seal vibrissae and California Sea Lion vibrissae were collected from the Marine Mammal Center in California. CT scanning, microscopy and 3D scanning techniques were utilized to characterize the whiskers. Computational fluid dynamics simulations of the whiskers were carried out to compare them to an ellipse and a cylinder. Leading edge parameters from the whiskers were used to create a 3D profile based on a modern power turbine blade. The NASA SW-2 facility was used to perform wind tunnel cascade testing on the 'Seal Blades'. Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations were used to study incidence angles from -37 to +10 degrees on the aerodynamic performance of the Seal Blade. The tests and simulations were conducted at a Reynolds number of 100,000. The Seal Blades showed consistent performance improvements over the baseline configuration. It was determined that a fuel burn reduction of approximately 5 could be achieved for a fixed wing aircraft. Noise reduction potential is also explored.

Oxy-combustor operable with supercritical fluid

DOEpatents

Brun, Klaus; McClung, Aaron M.; Owston, Rebecca A.

2017-04-04

An oxy-combustor is provided which comprises a combustion vessel including at least one solid fuel slurry inlet port, at least one oxygen inlet port and at least one supercritical fluid inlet port, wherein the combustion vessel is operable at an operating pressure of at least 1,100 psi; an interior of the combustion vessel comprises a combustion chamber and a supercritical fluid infusion chamber surrounding at least a part of the combustion chamber, the supercritical fluid infusion chamber and the combustion chamber are separated by a porous liner surrounding the combustion chamber, and the supercritical infusion chamber is located between the porous liner and an outer casing of the combustion vessel.

Global Energy Issues and Alternate Fueling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hendricks, Robert C.

2007-01-01

This viewgraph presentation describes world energy issues and alternate fueling effects on aircraft design. The contents include: 1) US Uses about 100 Quad/year (1 Q = 10(exp 15) Btu) World Energy Use: about 433 Q/yr; 2) US Renewable Energy about 6%; 3) Nuclear Could Grow: Has Legacy Problems; 4) Energy Sources Primarily NonRenewable Hydrocarbon; 5) Notes; 6) Alternate Fuels Effect Aircraft Design; 7) Conventional-Biomass Issue - Food or Fuel; 8) Alternate fuels must be environmentally benign; 9) World Carbon (CO2) Emissions Problem; 10) Jim Hansen s Global Warming Warnings; 11) Gas Hydrates (Clathrates), Solar & Biomass Locations; 12) Global Energy Sector Response; 13) Alternative Renewables; 14) Stratospheric Sulfur Injection Global Cooling Switch; 15) Potential Global Energy Sector Response; and 16) New Sealing and Fluid Flow Challenges.

Modeling, analysis and control of fuel cell hybrid power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suh, Kyung Won

Transient performance is a key characteristic of fuel cells, that is sometimes more critical than efficiency, due to the importance of accepting unpredictable electric loads. To fulfill the transient requirement in vehicle propulsion and portable fuel cell applications, a fuel cell stack is typically coupled with a battery through a DC/DC converter to form a hybrid power system. Although many power management strategies already exist, they all rely on low level controllers that realize the power split. In this dissertation we design controllers that realize various power split strategies by directly manipulating physical actuators (low level commands). We maintain the causality of the electric dynamics (voltage and current) and investigate how the electric architecture affects the hybridization level and the power management. We first establish the performance limitations associated with a stand-alone and power-autonomous fuel cell system that is not supplemented by an additional energy storage and powers all its auxiliary components by itself. Specifically, we examine the transient performance in fuel cell power delivery as it is limited by the air supplied by a compressor driven by the fuel cell itself. The performance limitations arise from the intrinsic coupling in the fluid and electrical domain between the compressor and the fuel cell stack. Feedforward and feedback control strategies are used to demonstrate these limitations analytically and with simulations. Experimental tests on a small commercial fuel cell auxiliary power unit (APU) confirm the dynamics and the identified limitations. The dynamics associated with the integration of a fuel cell system and a DC/DC converter is then investigated. Decentralized and fully centralized (using linear quadratic techniques) controllers are designed to regulate the power system voltage and to prevent fuel cell oxygen starvation. Regulating these two performance variables is a difficult task and requires a compromise due to the conflicting objectives. The compromise can be mitigated by augmenting the fuel cell power system with an energy buffer such as a battery. We consider two different and popular ways of connecting the battery and the fuel cell to the load and we refer to them as electric architectures. Various controller gains are used to span the fuel cell operation from load-following to load-leveling, and hence, to determine adequate fuel cell-battery sizing (hybridization level) and the associated trends in the system efficiency.

Investigations into the low temperature behavior of jet fuels: Visualization, modeling, and viscosity studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atkins, Daniel L.

Aircraft operation in arctic regions or at high altitudes exposes jet fuel to temperatures below freeze point temperature specifications. Fuel constituents may solidify and remain within tanks or block fuel system components. Military and scientific requirements have been met with costly, low freeze point specialty jet fuels. Commercial airline interest in polar routes and the use of high altitude unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has spurred interest in the effects of low temperatures and low-temperature additives on jet fuel. The solidification of jet fuel due to freezing is not well understood and limited visualization of fuel freezing existed prior to the research presented in this dissertation. Consequently, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling that simulates jet fuel freezing and model validation were incomplete prior to the present work. The ability to simulate jet fuel freezing is a necessary tool for fuel system designers. An additional impediment to the understanding and simulation of jet fuel freezing has been the absence of published low-temperature thermo-physical properties, including viscosity, which the present work addresses. The dissertation is subdivided into three major segments covering visualization, modeling and validation, and viscosity studies. In the first segment samples of jet fuel, JPTS, kerosene, Jet A and Jet A containing additives, were cooled below their freeze point temperatures in a rectangular, optical cell. Images and temperature data recorded during the solidification process provided information on crystal habit, crystallization behavior, and the influence of the buoyancy-driven flow on freezing. N-alkane composition of the samples was determined. The Jet A sample contained the least n-alkane mass. The cooling of JPTS resulted in the least wax formation while the cooling of kerosene yielded the greatest wax formation. The JPTS and kerosene samples exhibited similar crystallization behavior and crystal habits during cooling. Low-temperature additives modified the crystal habit of the Jet A fuel. Crystal shapes and sizes were recorded for use in future computational modeling. In the second segment, a computational fluid dynamics model was developed that simulates the solidification of jet fuel due to freezing in a buoyancy-driven flow. Flow resistance caused by porous crystal structures that exist in liquid-solid regions is simulated through the use of a momentum resistance source term. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

KSC-2011-8289

NASA Image and Video Library

2011-12-13

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians secure space shuttle Atlantis’ three fuel cells to special platforms. The fuel cells will be drained of all fluids. The hydrogen and oxygen dewars which feed reactants to the fuel cells remain in Atlantis’ mid-body and will be purged with inert gases and vented down. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Atlantis. The orbiter is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Combustion engine for solid and liquid fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pabst, W.

1986-01-01

A combustion engine having no piston, a single cylinder, and a dual-action, that is applicable for solid and liquid fuels and propellants, and that functions according to the principle of annealing point ignition is presented. The invention uses environmentally benign amounts of fuel and propellants to produce gas and steam pressure, and to use a simple assembly with the lowest possible consumption and constant readiness for mixing and burning. The advantage over conventional combustion engines lies in lower consumption of high quality igniting fluid in the most cost effective manner.

Dual mode fuel injection system and fuel injector for same

DOEpatents

Lawrence, Keith E.; Tian, Ye

2005-09-20

A fuel injection system has the ability to produce two different spray patterns depending on the positioning of a needle control valve member. Positioning of the needle control valve member determines which of the two needle control chambers are placed in a low pressure condition. First and second needle valve members have closing hydraulic surfaces exposed to fluid pressure in the two needle control chambers. The injector preferably includes a homogenous charge nozzle outlet set and a conventional nozzle outlet set controlled respectively, by the first and second needle valve members.

JACKETED FUEL ELEMENTS FOR GRAPHITE MODERATED REACTORS

DOEpatents

Szilard, L.; Wigner, E.P.; Creutz, E.C.

1959-05-12

Fuel elements for a heterogeneous, fluid cooled, graphite moderated reactor are described. The fuel elements are comprised of a body of natural uranium hermetically sealed in a jacket of corrosion resistant material. The jacket, which may be aluminum or some other material which is non-fissionable and of a type having a low neutron capture cross-section, acts as a barrier between the fissioning isotope and the coolant or moderator or both. The jacket minimizes the tendency of the moderator and coolant to become radioactive and/or contaminated by fission fragments from the fissioning isotope.

Ignition-delay Characteristics in Modified Open-cup Apparatus of Several Fuels with Nitric Acid Oxidants Within Temperature Range 70 to 105 Degrees F

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Riley O

1951-01-01

Fluid properties and low-temperature ignition delays were obtained for approximately 90 fuel-oxidant combinations. A red fuming nitric acid containing approximately 3 percent water and 19 percent nitrogen tetroxide froze at approximately -87 degrees F and ignited several low-viscosity fuel blends of aromatic amines in triethylamine at -76 degrees F and lower. With this acid, the following average ignition delays were obtained with a blend of 30 percent o-toluidine in triethylamine: ...

Apparatus and method for solid fuel chemical looping combustion

DOEpatents

Siriwardane, Ranjani V; Weber, Justin M

2015-04-14

The disclosure provides an apparatus and method utilizing fuel reactor comprised of a fuel section, an oxygen carrier section, and a porous divider separating the fuel section and the oxygen carrier section. The porous divider allows fluid communication between the fuel section and the oxygen carrier section while preventing the migration of solids of a particular size. Maintaining particle segregation between the oxygen carrier section and the fuel section during solid fuel gasification and combustion processes allows gases generated in either section to participate in necessary reactions while greatly mitigating issues associated with mixture of the oxygen carrier with char or ash products. The apparatus and method may be utilized with an oxygen uncoupling oxygen carrier such as CuO, Mn.sub.3O.sub.4, or Co.sub.3O.sub.4, or utilized with a CO/H.sub.2 reducing oxygen carrier such as Fe.sub.2O.sub.3.

Rapid differentiation of refined fuels using negative electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rostad, C.E.; Hostettler, F.D.

2005-01-01

Negative electrospray ionization/MS enabled rapid, specific, and selective screening for unique polar components at parts per million concentrations in commercial hydrocarbon products without extensive sample preparation, separation, chromatography, or quantitation. Commercial fuel types were analyzed with this method, including kerosene, jet fuel, white gas, charcoal lighter fluid, on-road and off-road diesel fuels, and various grades and brands of gasolines. The different types of fuels produced unique and relatively simple spectra. These analyses were then applied to hydrocarbon samples from a large, long-term fuel spill. Although the alkane, isoprenoid, and alkylcyclohexane portions began to biodegrade or weather, the polar components in these samples remained relatively unchanged. The type of fuel involved was readily identified by negative electrospray ionization/MS. This is an abstract of a paper presented at the 230th ACS National Meeting (Washington, DC 8/28/2005-9/1/2005).

Metallic Fuel Casting Development and Parameter Optimization Simulations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

R.S. Fielding; J. Crapps; C. Unal

One of the advantages of metallic fuel is the abilility to cast the fuel slugs to near net shape with little additional processing. However, the high aspect ratio of the fuel is not ideal for casting. EBR-II fuel was cast using counter gravity injection casting (CGIC) but, concerns have been raised concerning the feasibility of this process for americium bearing alloys. The Fuel Cycle Research and Development program has begun developing gravity casting techniques suitable for fuel production. Compared to CGIC gravity casting does not require a large heel that then is recycled, does not require application of a vacuummore » during melting, and is conducive to re-usable molds. Development has included fabrication of two separate benchscale, approximately 300 grams, systems. To shorten development time computer simulations have been used to ensure mold and crucible designs are feasible and to identify which fluid properties most affect casting behavior and therefore require more characterization.« less

Alumina Calcination in the Fluid-Flash Calciner

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fish, William M.

In the mid 40's, Alcoa turned to fluidized solids techniques as a means of improving the efficiency of the alumina calcining process. This paper traces calciner development from the first pilot operation in 1946 through the first plant fluid-bed unit in 1952, the early "fluid-flash" calciner designs in 1960, the first 300 ton/day fluid-flash calciner at Alcoa's Bauxite, Arkansas plant in 1963, the 600 ton/day calciners installed in Suriname and Australia in 1965 and 1966, up to the 1500 ton/day Mark III calciners now operating in Jamaica, Australia and the United States. These Mark III fluid-flash calciners have provided a 30 to 40 percent fuel saving in addition to major savings in capital investment and maintenance costs.

Plant-Level Modeling and Simulation of Used Nuclear Fuel Dissolution

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

de Almeida, Valmor F.

2012-09-07

Plant-level modeling and simulation of a used nuclear fuel prototype dissolver is presented. Emphasis is given in developing a modeling and simulation approach to be explored by other processes involved in the recycle of used fuel. The commonality concepts presented in a previous communication were used to create a model and realize its software module. An initial model was established based on a theory of chemical thermomechanical network transport outlined previously. A software module prototype was developed with the required external behavior and internal mathematical structure. Results obtained demonstrate the generality of the design approach and establish an extensible mathematicalmore » model with its corresponding software module for a wide range of dissolvers. Scale up numerical tests were made varying the type of used fuel (breeder and light-water reactors) and the capacity of dissolution (0.5 t/d to 1.7 t/d). These tests were motivated by user requirements in the area of nuclear materials safeguards. A computer module written in high-level programing languages (MATLAB and Octave) was developed, tested, and provided as open-source code (MATLAB) for integration into the Separations and Safeguards Performance Model application in development at Sandia National Laboratories. The modeling approach presented here is intended to serve as a template for a rational modeling of all plant-level modules. This will facilitate the practical application of the commonality features underlying the unifying network transport theory proposed recently. In addition, by example, this model describes, explicitly, the needed data from sub-scale models, and logical extensions for future model development. For example, from thermodynamics, an off-line simulation of molecular dynamics could quantify partial molar volumes for the species in the liquid phase; this simulation is currently at reach for high-performance computing. From fluid mechanics, a hold-up capacity function is needed for the dissolver device; this simulation is currently at reach for computational fluid mechanics given the existing CAD geometry. From chemical transport phenomena, a simulation of the particle-scale dissolution front is needed to derive an improved solid dissolution kinetics law by predicting the local surface area change; an example was provided in this report. In addition, the associated reaction mechanisms for dissolution are presently largely untested and simplified, hence even a parallel experimental program in reaction kinetics is needed to support modeling and simulation efforts. Last but not least, a simple account of finite rates of solid feed and transfer can be readily introduced via a coupled delayed model. These are some of the theoretical benefits of a rational plant-level modeling approach which guides the development of smaller length and time scale modeling. Practical, and other theoretical benefits have been presented on a previous report.« less

Passive cooling safety system for liquid metal cooled nuclear reactors

DOEpatents

Hunsbedt, Anstein; Boardman, Charles E.; Hui, Marvin M.; Berglund, Robert C.

1991-01-01

A liquid metal cooled nuclear reactor having a passive cooling system for removing residual heat resulting from fuel decay during reactor shutdown. The passive cooling system comprises a plurality of partitions surrounding the reactor vessel in spaced apart relation forming intermediate areas for circulating heat transferring fluid which remove and carry away heat from the reactor vessel. The passive cooling system includes a closed primary fluid circuit through the partitions surrounding the reactor vessel and a partially adjoining secondary open fluid circuit for carrying transferred heat out into the atmosphere.

Indirect passive cooling system for liquid metal cooled nuclear reactors

DOEpatents

Hunsbedt, Anstein; Boardman, Charles E.

1990-01-01

A liquid metal cooled nuclear reactor having a passive cooling system for removing residual heat resulting from fuel decay during reactor shutdown. The passive cooling system comprises a plurality of partitions surrounding the reactor vessel in spaced apart relation forming intermediate areas for circulating heat transferring fluid which remove and carry away heat from the reactor vessel. The passive cooling system includes a closed primary fluid circuit through the partitions surrounding the reactor vessel and a partially adjoining secondary open fluid circuit for carrying transferred heat out into the atmosphere.

40 CFR 600.107-93 - Fuel specifications.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... and Later Model Year Automobiles-Test Procedures § 600.107-93 Fuel specifications. (a) The test fuel... chapter. (c) The test fuel specifications for methanol fuel used in Otto-cycle automobiles are given in § 86.113(a) (3) and (4) of this chapter. (d) The test fuel specifications for methanol fuel used in...

Thermo-Gas-Dynamic Model of Afterburning in Explosions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kuhl, A L; Ferguson, R E; Bell, J B

2003-07-27

A theoretical model of afterburning in explosions created by turbulent mixing of the detonation products from fuel-rich charges with air is described. It contains three key elements: (i) a thermodynamic-equilibrium description of the fluids (fuel, air, and products), (ii) a multi-component gas-dynamic treatment of the flow field, and (iii) a sub-grid model of molecular processes of mixing, combustion and equilibration.

NASA Tech Briefs, February 2008

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

Topics discussed include: Optical Measurement of Mass Flow of a Two-Phase Fluid; Selectable-Tip Corrosion-Testing Electrochemical Cell; Piezoelectric Bolt Breakers and Bolt Fatigue Testers; Improved Measurement of B(sub 22) of Macromolecules in a Flow Cell; Measurements by a Vector Network Analyzer at 325 to 508 GHz; Using Light to Treat Mucositis and Help Wounds Heal; Increasing Discharge Capacities of Li-(CF)(sub n) Cells; Dot-in-Well Quantum-Dot Infrared Photodetectors; Integrated Microbatteries for Implantable Medical Devices; Oxidation Behavior of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Composites; GIDEP Batching Tool; Generic Spacecraft Model for Real-Time Simulation; Parallel-Processing Software for Creating Mosaic Images; Software for Verifying Image-Correlation Tie Points; Flexcam Image Capture Viewing and Spot Tracking; Low-Pt-Content Anode Catalyst for Direct Methanol Fuel Cells; Graphite/Cyanate Ester Face Sheets for Adaptive Optics; Atomized BaF2-CaF7 for Better-Flowing Plasma-Spray Feedstock; Nanophase Nickel-Zirconium Alloys for Fuel Cells; Vacuum Packaging of MEMS With Multiple Internal Seal Rings; Compact Two-Dimensional Spectrometer Optics; and Fault-Tolerant Coding for State Machines.

Electrorheology for energy production and conservation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Ke

Recently, based on the physics of viscosity, we developed a new technology, which utilizes electric or magnetic fields to change the rheology of complex fluids to reduce the viscosity, while keeping the temperature unchanged. The method is universal and applicable to all complex fluids with suspended particles of nano-meter, submicrometer, or micrometer size. Completely different from the traditional viscosity reduction method, raising the temperature, this technology is energy-efficient, as it only requires small amount of energy to aggregate the suspended particles. In this thesis, we will first discuss this new technology in detail, both in theory and practice. Then, we will report applications of our technology to energy science research. Presently, 80% of all energy sources are liquid fuels. The viscosity of liquid fuels plays an important role in energy production and energy conservation. With an electric field, we can reduce the viscosity of asphalt-based crude oil. This is important and useful for heavy crude oil and off-shore crude oil production and transportation. Especially, since there is no practical way to raise the temperature of crude oil inside the deepwater pipelines, our technology may play a key role in future off-shore crude oil production. Electrorehology can also be used to reduce the viscosity of refinery fuels, such as diesel fuel and gasoline. When we apply this technology to fuel injection, the fuel droplets in the fuel atomization become smaller, leading to faster combustion in the engine chambers. As the fuel efficiency of internal combustion engines depends on the combustion speed and timing, the fast combustion produces much higher fuel efficiency. Therefore, adding our technology on existing engines improves the engine efficiency significantly. A theoretical model for the engine combustion, which explains how fast combustion improves the engine efficiency, is also presented in the thesis. As energy is the key to our national security, we believe that our technology is important and will have a strong impact on energy production and conversation in the future.

Small boiler uses waste coal

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Virr, M.J.

Burning coal waste in small boilers at low emissions poses considerable problem. While larger boiler suppliers have successfully installed designs in the 40 to 80 MW range for some years, the author has been developing small automated fluid bed boiler plants for 25 years that can be applied in the range of 10,000 to 140,000 lbs/hr of steam. Development has centered on the use of an internally circulating fluid bed (CFB) boiler, which will burn waste fuels of most types. The boiler is based on the traditional D-shaped watertable boiler, with a new type of combustion chamber that enables amore » three-to-one turndown to be achieved. The boilers have all the advantages of low emissions of the large fluid boilers while offering a much lower height incorporated into the package boiler concept. Recent tests with a waste coal that had a high nitrogen content of 1.45% demonstrated a NOx emission below the federal limit of 0.6 lbs/mm Btu. Thus a NOx reduction on the order of 85% can be demonstrate by combustion modification alone. Further reductions can be made by using a selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) system and sulfur absorption of up to 90% retention is possible. The article describes the operation of a 30,000 lbs/hr boiler at the Fayette Thermal LLC plant. Spinheat has installed three ICFB boilers at a nursing home and a prison, which has been tested on poor-grade anthracite and bituminous coal. 2 figs.« less

Reorientation of rotating fluid in microgravity environment with and without gravity jitters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hung, R. J.; Lee, C. C.; Shyu, K. L.

1990-01-01

In a spacecraft design, the requirements of settled propellant are different for tank pressurization, engine restart, venting, or propellant transfer. The requirement to settle or to position liquid fuel over the outlet end of the spacecraft propellant tank prior main engine restart poses a microgravity fluid behavior problem. In this paper, the dynamical behavior of liquid propellant, fluid reorientation, and propellant resettling have been carried out through the execution of supercomputer CRAY X-MP to simulate the fluid management in a microgravity environment. Results show that the resettlement of fluid can be accomplished more efficiently for fluid in rotating tank than in nonrotating tank, and also better performance for gravity jitters imposed on fluid settlement than without gravity jitters based on the amount of time needed to carry out resettlement period of time between the initiation and termination of geysering.

Analysis of features of hydrodynamics and heat transfer in the fuel assembly of prospective sodium reactor with a high rate of reproduction in the uranium-plutonium fuel cycle

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lubina, A. S., E-mail: lubina-as@nrcki.ru; Subbotin, A. S.; Sedov, A. A.

2016-12-15

The fast sodium reactor fuel assembly (FA) with U–Pu–Zr metallic fuel is described. In comparison with a “classical” fast reactor, this FA contains thin fuel rods and a wider fuel rod grid. Studies of the fluid dynamics and the heat transfer were carried out for such a new FA design. The verification of the ANSYS CFX code was provided for determination of the velocity, pressure, and temperature fields in the different channels. The calculations in the cells and in the FA were carried out using the model of shear stress transport (SST) selected at the stage of verification. The resultsmore » of the hydrodynamics and heat transfer calculations have been analyzed.« less

Computer Aided Grid Interface: An Interactive CFD Pre-Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soni, Bharat K.

1997-01-01

NASA maintains an applications oriented computational fluid dynamics (CFD) efforts complementary to and in support of the aerodynamic-propulsion design and test activities. This is especially true at NASA/MSFC where the goal is to advance and optimize present and future liquid-fueled rocket engines. Numerical grid generation plays a significant role in the fluid flow simulations utilizing CFD. An overall goal of the current project was to develop a geometry-grid generation tool that will help engineers, scientists and CFD practitioners to analyze design problems involving complex geometries in a timely fashion. This goal is accomplished by developing the CAGI: Computer Aided Grid Interface system. The CAGI system is developed by integrating CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) geometric system output and/or Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) files (including all the NASA-IGES entities), geometry manipulations and generations associated with grid constructions, and robust grid generation methodologies. This report describes the development process of the CAGI system.

Computer Aided Grid Interface: An Interactive CFD Pre-Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soni, Bharat K.

1996-01-01

NASA maintains an applications oriented computational fluid dynamics (CFD) efforts complementary to and in support of the aerodynamic-propulsion design and test activities. This is especially true at NASA/MSFC where the goal is to advance and optimize present and future liquid-fueled rocket engines. Numerical grid generation plays a significant role in the fluid flow simulations utilizing CFD. An overall goal of the current project was to develop a geometry-grid generation tool that will help engineers, scientists and CFD practitioners to analyze design problems involving complex geometries in a timely fashion. This goal is accomplished by developing the Computer Aided Grid Interface system (CAGI). The CAGI system is developed by integrating CAD/CAM (Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing) geometric system output and / or Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) files (including all the NASA-IGES entities), geometry manipulations and generations associated with grid constructions, and robust grid generation methodologies. This report describes the development process of the CAGI system.