Testing Materials in a Plasma Arc Under Simulated Re-Entry Conditions
SourceThe problem of materials for re-entry vehicles is unique in that the design criteria by which a material was selected in the past is no longer sufficient. For example, strength versus temperature data, section modulus, and similar traditional structural properties are of limited value where a material must perform in environments approaching or at its softening point. Temperature gradients, thermal shock, chemical reactions, erosion rates, producibility, and other related properties now assume a much greater importance than ever before. The material requirement that must be determined at temperatures above 3000 F may be categorized as follows: (1) maintenance of structural integrity under aerodynamic loads, (2) thermal shock resistance, (3) ability to withstand large thermal gradients and (4) surface resistance against corrosion and erosion.