Nondestructive evaluation methods have been developed to identify defects in the foam thermal protection system (TPS) of the Space Shuttle External Tank (ET). Terahertz imaging and backscatter radiography have been brought from prototype lab systems to production hardened inspection tools in just a few years. These methods have been demonstrated to be capable of detecting void type defects under many inches of foam which, if not repaired, could lead to detrimental foam loss. The evolution of these methods from lab tools to implementation on the ET will be discussed.
Nondestructive Evaluation of Foam Insulation for the External Tank Return to Flight
2006
7 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Nondestructive Evaluation of Foam Insulation for the External Tank Return to Flight
British Library Conference Proceedings | 2006
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