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NACA engineers built upon their experience with previous, less powerful altitude test facilities to produce the most state-of-the-art facility in the nation for studying full-scale engine systems. The Propulsion Systems Laboratory No. 1 and 2 included two altitude chambers, a modern control room, a combustion air supply system, an exhauster system, and cooling water system. The complex included a number of support buildings, the largest of which was the Equipment Building. In 1972 the two larger test chambers, PSL No. 3 and 4, were added to the complex.  PSL Design Specifications (PDF, 4.97MB) I. Combustion Air System: The combustion air line provided highly pressurized dry conditioned air to the test chambers. The air could be heated or cooled depending on the nature of the test. II. Test Equipment: The engine being tested was installed in one of the two altitude chambers and operated from the control room. The combustion air flowed through the chambers and engine. III. Exhaust System: Powerful exhausters reducing the density of the air in the test chambers to simulate the selected altitude for a test. Water-fed coolers were used to reduce the temperature of these exhausted air flows.
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Responsible NASA Official: Anne K. Mills
Web Curator: Robert S. Arrighi Last Updated: 8/18/2015 |