APTU Upgrade that Extends Operational Run Time and Test Regimes
AFWERX · AFWERX STRATFI · AFWERX
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Description
The run time of the Aerodynamic and Propulsion Test Unit (APTU) facility operated by the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) requires extension to approximately 1000 seconds in order to support hypersonic system ground test and evaluation over an entire mission profile in a similar fashion has the Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) Hot Air Tunnel (HAT) effort. CFD Research is leveraging prior investment in the SMDC HAT effort to implement the capability for APTU operation greater than 1000 seconds using an iso-butane fueled staged enthalpy addition system that could ultimately support the operation of a variable Mach number APTU test section. Specific objectives of this STRATFI sponsored Phase IIE effort include: Development and delivery of an iso-butane fueled staged enthalpy addition system capable of extending APTU run time over 1000 seconds and suitable for operation within other hypersonic tunnel operations under consideration by the Air Force. Initial correlation of APTU ground test results with available flight test results. Consideration of APTU operation within hypersonic boundary layer transition assessment. Definition of upgrades necessary for multiple Air Force hypersonic tunnel sites to host the delivered staged enthalpy addition system.