Advanced Measurement Capability of Turbine Engine Exhaust and Jet Flows through Non-intrusive Methods

The United States Air Force (USAF) at Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) has identified a need for improved turbine engine exhaust flow measurement. Non-Contact Technologies, LLC, (NCT) seeks to apply research techniques developed by the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) for non-intrusive diagnostics of exhaust and gas flows from turbine engines during ground testing. The USAF is developing new turbine engines with variable cycles and integrated exhaust systems that introduce special challenges (acoustics, off axis thrust generation, nozzle heating, etc) during ground testing. New measurement and analysis techniques are needed to ensure representative ground tests are performed during development, as well as protecting the test article and test facility. This STTR will address many of the USAF advanced engines ground test needs as clearly stated in the attached Air Force stakeholder letter of support. In addition, NCT, in cooperation with UTSI, will investigate commercialization of the measurement technique by developing the system into a field deployable unit, including altitude test cells and flight line testing.