Holographic subsurface radar for diagnostics of cryogenic fuel tank thermal insulation of space vehicles. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ivashov, S.; Razevig, V.; Vasiliev, I.; Bechtel, T.; Capineri, L.
• Is Part Of: NDT & E international. Volume 69(2015:Jan.)
• Page Start: 48
• Page End: 54
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: Holographic subsurface radar -- Non-destructive testing -- Cryogenic fuel tanks thermal insulation -- Polyurethane foam -- Launch vehicle; Nondestructive testing -- Periodicals; Contrôle non destructif -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.1127
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ndteint.2014.10.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-8695

Abstract

Abstract: Analysis of critical conditions on the reusable spacecrafts Columbia (USA), and Buran (Russia) related to defects in insulation and heat-protection coatings have been performed. It is shown that the existing methods of non-destructive testing, including ultrasonics, failed to prevent the disaster of the Space Shuttle Columbia and serious incidents involving the spacecraft Buran during its only flight. A new method for using the holographic subsurface radar RASCAN-5/15000 which reveals the internal defects of the coating was proposed, and experiments on models of thermal insulation coatings were performed. The experimental results were displayed in the form of radar images on which defects in the heat insulation provided a good contrast. The article reflects preliminary study and further efforts are needed to improve resolution of the technology. Highlights: Described microwave holographic radar using for NDT of space rockets insulation. Performed experiments with a model of fuel tank cryogenic polyurethane insulation. Discussed the reconstruction particularities of holograms recorded above a mirror. Paved the path for detection of polyurethane foam insulation defects by radar.