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TPS Reentry Assignment Uzma

This research evaluates and compares Thermal Protection System (TPS) technologies for space re-entry vehicles, focusing on Ablative TPS and Reusable Ceramic TPS. Ablative TPS is lightweight and effective for high-velocity re-entries but is single-use, while Reusable Ceramic TPS is suitable for multiple re-entries but requires extensive maintenance. Future approaches include Flexible Thermal Protection Systems and Active Cooling TPS to address current limitations.

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2 views3 pages

TPS Reentry Assignment Uzma

This research evaluates and compares Thermal Protection System (TPS) technologies for space re-entry vehicles, focusing on Ablative TPS and Reusable Ceramic TPS. Ablative TPS is lightweight and effective for high-velocity re-entries but is single-use, while Reusable Ceramic TPS is suitable for multiple re-entries but requires extensive maintenance. Future approaches include Flexible Thermal Protection Systems and Active Cooling TPS to address current limitations.

Uploaded by

uzmaanistakkalki
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) for

Re-entry Vehicles
Objective
The objective of this research is to explore, evaluate, and compare existing Thermal
Protection System (TPS) technologies used in space re-entry vehicles such as SpaceX
Dragon, NASA's Orion, and Boeing's Starliner. TPS ensures the structural integrity and
safety of the vehicle by mitigating extreme heat loads during atmospheric re-entry, which
can exceed 1,500°C (2,732°F).

1. Detailed Description of TPS Types

A. Ablative Thermal Protection System (TPS)


Ablative TPS works by absorbing heat and subsequently removing it through a process of
material degradation—ablation. The outer layers of the TPS char, melt, and sublimate away,
carrying thermal energy with them. This technique is particularly suitable for capsules re-
entering at high velocities, where the thermal loads are intense and short-lived.

Material examples: PICA (Phenolic Impregnated Carbon Ablator), Avcoat, SLA-561V.

Applications: SpaceX Dragon 2 (PICA-X), NASA’s Orion (Avcoat).

Advantages: Lightweight and mass-efficient; Excellent at handling peak heating.

Limitations: Single-use; Not ideal for reusable vehicles unless replaced every time.

B. Reusable Ceramic TPS


Reusable ceramic systems protect the structure by insulating it from heat. These materials
have high melting points, low thermal conductivity, and excellent emissivity. Instead of
being consumed, they maintain their structure and performance over multiple re-entries,
given proper inspection and maintenance.

Material examples: LI-900 silica tiles, TUFI-coated tiles, RCC.

Applications: Space Shuttle Orbiter, X-37B Spaceplane, Boeing Starliner.

Advantages: Suitable for reusable vehicles; Lower recurring cost after development.

Limitations: Fragile and prone to detachment; Requires thorough post-flight inspection.


2. Comparative Analysis Table
Parameter Ablative TPS Reusable
Ceramic TPS

Max ~3000 K ~1650 K


Temperatur (2727 °C) (1377 °C)
e Tolerance

Reusability No Yes (100+


cycles)

Mass High Moderate to


Efficiency Low

Cost Lower per High initial,


(Lifecycle) mission lower long-
term

Maintenance Minimal High


Requiremen
ts

Integration Simple Complex


Complexity

3. Limitations and Future Approaches


Both systems have critical limitations:

• Ablative TPS is inherently non-reusable, increasing mission cost.

• Ceramic TPS is heavy, fragile, and requires extensive maintenance.

A. Flexible Thermal Protection Systems (FTPS)


FTPS consists of layered composite materials that offer flexibility while withstanding high
thermal loads. The structure can conform to deployable or inflatable decelerators. Used in
NASA's HIAD (Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator).

Benefits: Lightweight, stowable, suitable for large surfaces.

B. Active Cooling TPS (ACTPS)


ACTPS circulates coolant fluids behind the TPS surface to absorb and transfer heat. This
technique reduces bulk and can support multiple uses.

Benefits: Controllable thermal gradients, continuous use. Challenges: Complexity, added


weight.
4. Recommendations for Improvement
Suggested geometry adjustments to improve TPS by ≥3%:

• Tapered leading edges to reduce stagnation heating.

• Optimized TPS thickness based on heat flux mapping.

• Use of hybrid TPS materials for critical vs. non-critical zones.

5. References
 Venkatapathy, E. et al. (2010). 'PICA and PICA-X Material Characterization.' AIAA 2010-
1217.
 Hollis, B. R. et al. (2006). 'Thermal Protection System Performance on the Shuttle.' NASA
TP-2006-213697.
 NASA HIAD Program: https://www.nasa.gov/hiad
 Sutton, G. & Biblarz, O. (2016). Rocket Propulsion Elements, Wiley.
 SpaceX Engineering Whitepapers (2020). Internal TPS development notes.
 'Flexible TPS for Inflatable Structures,' Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets, 2022.

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