Testing Overview and ProofTest of NASAs X34

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Testing Overview and Proof-Test of NASAs X-34

• Dr. Larry Peel
• Texas A M - Kingsville
• MEEN 4363/4
• special thanks to Gary Harris of Orbital Science
  Corp.

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Presentation Outline

• When is testing Needed?
• Materials Testing
• Component Testing
• Proof Testing
• In-service Testing

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What is Needed for Testing?

• Completed Components
• A verified TEST PLAN
• A notebook to TAKE NOTES. Record everything.
• Test equipment, training, jigs fixtures
• Rough calculations to predict response of system.
• Time do a test, correlate the data, then take
  more tests. Cant rush testing.
• Allow for failure of specimens.

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Testing Standards - ASTM

• Rebar - ASTM A615 and
• ASTM A996 standards
• ASTM D 6415 test fixture and test specimen.
  Source Dr. Don Adams

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Testing in our lab
Simple weld / tensile tests up to 17,000 lbs were
performed in our lab today. Notice chips out of
fixture.
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Materials Testing

• Elastomers
• 5 silicone
• 5 urethane

• Fibers
• Dry cotton
• Rubber-impregnated
• cotton
• Fiberglass not tested

• Fiber-Reinforced Elastomer Coupons
• 4 specimens each at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90
• Silicone/cotton, Silicone/fiberglass,
• Urethane/cotton, Urethane/fiberglass.

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Component Testing In Service
X-34 pictures can be found at www.orbital.com
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Rocket Propellant Tank Design
RP tank is in front, has 2 internal domes to
create 3 compartments, made totally from
graphite/epoxy using lower-cost fabrication
methods
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RP Tank Testing
Proof pressure test to 125 psi, Cycle 400 times
at 100 psi pinhole leaks, end deflection, action
of internal domes
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Control Surface - Aileron
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Control Surfaces - Speed Brake
All foam core, no internal structure
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Beyond Fabrication..
Assembly, testing and first captive flight
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Questions Acknowledgements

• X-34
• Sponsored by NASA, Thanks to Orbital Science and
  R-Cubed Composites.