Development of Floating Slosh Dampers for Propellant Tanks - FY17
Project Description
The proposed novel method of slosh damping may both reduce the cost of the design and manufacture of propellant tanks, but also increase the performance of the launch vehicle through reduced weight and improved vehicle control. The objective of this proposal is to develop, test, and analyze the innovative concept of a floating slosh damper consisting of hollow spheres. Investigate the effects of sphere diameter, material, and number of layers for effectiveness of slosh control.
More »Anticipated Benefits
There is a need for propellant tank slosh dampers that have lower weight, reduced complexity, and reduced development effort. The purpose of the proposed work is to investigate the effectiveness and performance advantages of floating slosh dampers for achieving these goals. The standard method for damping fuel slosh in propellant tanks is a set of baffles. However, these add significant weight, design and analysis work, and manufacturing complexity to a propellant tank. For example, the weight of the Space Launch System Core Stage Liquid Oxygen (LOX) tank baffling is estimated at over 2000 lbs. and involves 6000 parts. This equates to about 3.4 lbs. of baffles per square foot of fluid surface area.
More »Project Library
Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Marshall Space Flight Center
(MSFC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Huntsville, Alabama |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Alabama
