Evaluation of vaned diffuser performance applicable to chemical laser pressure recovery systems

Robert Acebal

doi:10.1117/12.172723

1 June 1994 Evaluation of vaned diffuser performance applicable to chemical laser pressure recovery systems

Robert Acebal

Proceedings Volume 2119, Intense Beams and Applications: Lasers, Ions, and Microwaves; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.172723
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

In order to operate weapon-level chemical lasers, such as DF or COIL, or test articles, such as the Alpha HF chemical laser, in the atmosphere it is necessary to recover as much of the velocity component of the flow and convert it to pressure as possible. This conversion is accomplished through diffusers which decelerate the flow from supersonic to near zero velocities. Subsequent pressure increases to atmospheric levels, if required, are normally accomplished with ejectors. In a size limited carrier vehicle or test area it is desirable to design diffusers which are as small and compact as possible and still maintain optimum performance. One method of reducing the size of supersonic diffusers is to employ vanes to reduce the effective inlet duct dimension (D) and thus the length (L), since L/D equals Constant for a given inlet Mach number. This paper presents a tutorial on diffuser theory as well as experimental results from both TRW and UTRC on vaned diffuser performance. The results emphatically show that vanes are only effective when they reduce the inlet duct dimensions perpendicular to the limiting boundary layer.

Citation Download Citation

Robert Acebal "Evaluation of vaned diffuser performance applicable to chemical laser pressure recovery systems", Proc. SPIE 2119, Intense Beams and Applications: Lasers, Ions, and Microwaves, (1 June 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.172723

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