SEDL / STP / STP1319-EB / STP12051S

Configurational Effects on the Combustion of Several Alloy Systems in Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres

Janoff, D
Principal Scientist, Lockheed Martin Engineering and Science Services, Houston, TX

Pedley, MD
Branch Chief, Materials and Failure Analysis Branch, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX

Pages: 10    Published: Jan 1997

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Abstract

The promoted combustion resistance of many metals and alloys have been evaluated using 3 mm (0.13 in.) diameter rods. Although the rod configuration has been useful in ranking alloys for combustion resistance, the threshold pressures determined are usually not directly applicable to configurations used in the actual design and fabrication of oxygen systems. This is especially true for configurations that have a higher surface area to volume ratio than a 3 mm diameter rod. Investigators have tested alloys for promoted combustion resistance in higher surface area to volume ratios and various configurations, such as small diameter wires, sheet, wire mesh, sintered filters, structured packings, tubing, and in the current investigation, metallic sponge. The effects of these various configurations on the promoted combustion resistance of several alloy systems will be reviewed. Alloy systems that will be reviewed are copper alloys, nickel alloys, stainless steels, and aluminum alloys.