RTG Assists AMPAC ISP with Data Interpretation
Posted on March 3, 2010
Written by Thomas Donnelly, Senior Test Engineer, AMPAC ISP
In April of 2009 at RTG#32 at NASA White Sands, I had the opportunity to tour the laboratory where propellant analysis is performed. This was of great interest to me and my organization as chemical analysis of propellant can be a very important component of our test process and business. The iron content of our N2O4 often needs to be verified for our customers. It was beneficial for me to see a laboratory where such analysis occurs and to talk to an engineer who is involved in the process. His explanation of the process gave me new insight into what the values we receive from outside houses for propellant analysis really mean, and how they can be interpreted. This opportunity for me would not have existed if it were not for the Rocket Test Group.
RTG Informed of Helium Shortage
Posted on March 3, 2010
Written by Thomas Donnelly, Senior Test Engineer, AMPAC ISP
In October of 2008 at RTG#31 at Orbitec, Bob Schwer of NASA Stennis Space Center gave a presentation about “Proactive Conservation Measures for Helium.” The presentation focused on the facts that helium costs are rising and the supply is diminishing. These facts had begun to negatively affect testing at NASA Stennis Space Center. After listening to the problems associated with helium, I have altered some of the way we test at AMPAC. When possible, I run tests out of some of our smaller propellant tanks to conserve helium. Prior to this, almost all of our testing was run out of much larger propellant tanks.
RTG Helps AMPAC ISP with Data Acquisition Systems
Posted on March 3, 2010
Written by Thomas Donnelly, Senior Test Engineer, AMPAC ISP
In October of 2008 at RTG#31 at Orbitec, we received a facility tour that included viewing a test stand, data acquisition system, and test control trailer. Orbitec had recently replaced their data acquisition system. It was beneficial to see how another test facility implemented a new data acquisition system. The acquisition hardware is located near the test cell to eliminate running cables and to reduce noise. The data is remotely monitored in a separate control trailer. When we upgrade our data acquisition system at AMPAC, this is the same idea we will strive for. Having the opportunity to see a system in place, in person, and working, provided confidence to proceed with our future plans.
RTG Helps ORBITEC with Cryogenic System Insulation
Posted on February 17, 2010
Written by Joan Hoopes, Senior Propulsion Test Engineer, ORBITEC
At RTG #30 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the RTG group saw the aerogel insulation presented by Jim Fesmire. Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) wes building up their cryogenic fuel system at the time and after seeing the great properties of the insulation and that it performed well without a vacuum, they purchased the aerogel granules to insulate/fill the cavity on their cryogenic fuel tank. "It works great!" ORBITEC also bought the blanket insulation and have used it on the lines. They were able to show off their new aquisitions in use when they hosted RTG #31.
RTG Provides Data for CPIAC's RPTF Database
Posted on September 2, 2009
Written by David Owen, Research Engineer, JHU/CPIAC
The Rocket Test Group has been crucial to the success of The Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Chemical Propulsion Information Analysis Center's (CPIAC) Rocket Propulsion Test Facilities (RPTF) Database. The database, available for subscription purchases through CPIAC's Chemical Propulsion Information Network, provides detailed test stand information to help managers and engineers find the best location to test their projects. The Rocket Test Group has been a critical factor in the success of the database through the test site tours and the willingness of RTG members to share specifications about their test stands. The CPIAC thanks RTG for their continued support of RPTF.
