A major hazard posed by the propulsion system of hypersonic and space vehicles is the possibility of fire or explosion in the vehicle environment. The hazard is mitigated by minimizing or detecting, in the vehicle environment, the three ingredients essential to producing fire: fuel, oxidizer, and an ignition source. The Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE) consisted of a linear aerospike rocket engine integrated into one-half of an X-33-like lifting body shape, carried on top of an SR-71 aircraft. Gaseous hydrogen and liquid oxygen were used as propellants. Although LASRE is a one-of-a-kind experimental system, it must be rated for piloted flight, so this test presented a unique challenge. To help meet safety requirements, the following propulsion hazard mitigation systems were incorporated into the experiment: pod inert purge, oxygen sensors, a hydrogen leak detection algorithm, hydrogen sensors, fire detection and pod temperature thermocouples, water misting, and control room displays. These systems are described, and their development discussed. Analyses, ground test, and flight test results are presented, as are findings and lessons learned.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE): Aerospace Propulsion Hazard Mitigation Systems



    Conference:

    Joint Propulsion ; 1998 ; Cleveland, OH, United States


    Publication date :

    1998-07-01


    Type of media :

    Miscellaneous


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English





    Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE) - Aerospace propulsion hazard mitigation systems

    Mizukami, Masashi / Corpening, Griffin / Ray, Ronald et al. | AIAA | 1998


    Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE): Aerospace Propulsion Hazard Mitigation Systems

    M. Mizukami / G. P. Corpening / R. J. Ray et al. | NTIS | 1998



    Evaluation of the Linear Aerospike SR-71 Experiment (LASRE) Oxygen Sensor

    K. A. Ennix / G. P. Corpening / M. Jarvis et al. | NTIS | 1999