Hyperboloid Flare Experiments in the HEG

Abstract

Tests on a hyperboloid flare model have been undertaken in the HEG facility. Pressure and heat flux profiles were measured and the flow field was visualized by a Schlieren system. Transitional behaviour of the separation shear layer was exhibited by the two high Reynolds number conditions. The experimental heat flux profile for a low Reynolds number, high total enthalpy condition compares well with Navier-Stokes calculations, assuming a non-catalytic wall. The model forebody pressure and heat flux profiles for the six conditions tested are self-similar until separation occurs. It is argued, that at constant viscous interaction parameter, which is also at constant relaxation length, the separation bubble size decreases with increasing enthalpy.