1. Testing Overview and Proof- Test of NASA’s X-34 Dr. Larry Peel Texas A & M - Kingsville MEEN 4363/4 special thanks to Gary Harris of Orbital Science Corp.

2. Presentation Outline u When is testing Needed? u Materials Testing u Component Testing u Proof Testing u In-service Testing

3. What is Needed for Testing? u Completed Components u A verified TEST PLAN u A notebook to TAKE NOTES. Record everything. u Test equipment, training, jigs & fixtures u Rough calculations to predict response of system. u Time… do a test, correlate the data, then take more tests…. Can’t rush testing. u Allow for failure of specimens.

4. Testing Standards - ASTM n Rebar - ASTM A615 and ASTM A996 standards ASTM D 6415 test fixture and test specimen. Source: Dr. Don Adams

5. Testing in our lab Simple weld / tensile tests up to 17,000 lbs were performed in our lab today. Notice chips out of fixture.

6. Materials Testing  Elastomers 5 silicone 5 urethane u Fibers Dry cotton Rubber-impregnated cotton Fiberglass not tested u Fiber-Reinforced Elastomer Coupons 4 specimens each at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90° Silicone/cotton, Silicone/fiberglass, Urethane/cotton, Urethane/fiberglass.

7. Component Testing & In Service X-34 pictures can be found at www.orbital.com

8. Rocket Propellant Tank Design RP tank is in front, has 2 internal domes to create 3 compartments, made totally from graphite/epoxy using lower-cost fabrication methods

9. RP Tank Testing Proof pressure test to 125 psi, Cycle 400 times at 100 psi …pinhole leaks, end deflection, action of internal domes

10. Control Surface - Aileron

11. Control Surfaces - Speed Brake All foam core, no internal structure

12. Beyond Fabrication….. Assembly, testing and first captive flight

13. Questions & Acknowledgements u X-34 Sponsored by NASA, Thanks to Orbital Science and R-Cubed Composites.