This paper discusses the advantages and problems associated with the use of “passive” liquid containment systems that utilize liquid intermolecular forces for propellant orientation in reduced or zero gravity environments. Liquid orientation is required to provide reliable engine restart and tank venting operations of space vehicle propulsion systems. Various liquid containment system concepts, and associated design criteria, are presented and general problem areas of interface stability, liquid slosh, and effects of thermal energy are described. Descriptions of present and planned test facilities designed to provide reduced gravity environments and extended time durations are included. It is concluded that additional design criteria in the problem areas discussed must be obtained before “passive” liquid containment systems can replace systems now used in reduced or zero gravity environments.
Zero G Liquid Propellant Orientation by Passive Control
Sae Technical Papers
SAE World Congress & Exhibition ; 1964
1964-01-01
Aufsatz (Konferenz)
Englisch
Engineering Index Backfile | 1962
|Paramagnetic propellant orientation
NTRS | 1991
|Criteria for passive propellant control schemes
NTRS | 1970
|NTIS | 1978
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