Header menu link for other important links
X
Radiographic inspection and analysis of case bonded solid rocket motor defects
A. Parhi, V. Mahesh, , G. Levin, C.R. Thomas, A. Rajarajan
Published in International Astronautical Federation, IAF
2018
Volume: 2018-October
   
Abstract
Solid rocket propellant is a visco-elastic material typically comprised of Ammonium Perchlorate granules as oxidizer, Aluminum as fuel and synthetic rubber or plasticized polymer as binder. Propellant and interface defects in solid rocket motors like cracks, voids, air pockets, debond, separations, inclusion and other similar types of flaws severely affects the ballistic performance of the motor and may lead to catastrophic failure. Therefore, the detection of all such defects using non-destructive testing (NDT) is highly essential to ensure the satisfactory performance of the motor during operation. Radiography is one of the most versatile quality assurance tools to build up the confidence on the article. Several other NDT techniques are used for detection of the defects, however radiographic techniques is highly deductive, detective and concise in comparison to other techniques. Radiographic method is based on the differential absorption of penetrating radiation by the structure being inspected. The position and shape of the defect on propellant and interfaces is derived based on the various radiographic techniques, which is very important. Third dimension and exact shape of the defects in bulk propellant is derived based on the triangulation method. Number of tangential and normal shots is finalized based on the geometrical contour and functionally critical region. Any separation between the insulation and propellant can be examined using tangential radiographic technique. Single and double wall technique is adopted for clear visibility to interpret the defects of lower and higher diameter sizes of solid booster. Porosities are normally noticed in inhibition layers due to air entrapment during the mixing of resin. Densitometry study is carried out to decipher the porosity levels in inhibition resin. From the basic density of the radiographic film the relative functional criticality is derived. Isolated and cluster of propellant voids, propellant crack, debond/separation between insulation and propellant interface are generic defects seen in solid rocket motor. The functional severities of the defects are analyzed for each case for the acceptance of the article. Cluster and segregated propellant voids are evaluated from the radiographic testing and its functional impact is assessed before clearing for further processing. This paper analyzes the radiographic evaluation of defects observed in various solid rocket motors in recent past and its detailed assessment. Copyright © 2016 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.. All rights reserved.
About the journal
JournalProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
PublisherInternational Astronautical Federation, IAF
ISSN00741795