- Author
-
Andracchio, C. R.
|
Aydelott, J. C.
- Title
- Comparison of Flame Spreading Over Thin Flat Surfaces in Normal Gravity and Weightlessness in an Oxygen Environment.
- Coporate
- National Aeronautics and Space Admin., Cleveland, OH
- Sponsor
- National Aeronautics and Space Admin., Washington, DC
- Report
-
NASA TM X-1992,
May 1970,
25 p.
- Keywords
-
flame spread
|
weightlessness
|
tests
|
solids
|
flame spread rate
|
combustion chambersd
|
oxygen atmosphere
- Identifiers
- zero gravity
- Abstract
- A test program was conducted to observe burning characteristics of solids during weightlessness in a 3.45-N/cm(2)abs (5-psia) oxygen atmosphere. Results obtained from the tests conducted in both normal-gravity and zero-gravity environments were compared. Flame profile and spread pattern were photographed, and flame spread rate was measured over thin, square-shaped, paper and plastic specimens; the specimens were oriented vertically and horizontally in a sealed combustion chamber. During weightlessness the profile of the flame was found to be rounded or dome-shaped for either orientation while the flame spread in a uniform circular pattern over the specimen surface. Flame spread rates were lower in zero gravity and in normal gravity.