Abstract

Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) are critical for atmospheric re-entry and hypersonic flight vehicles, yet ground-based evaluation of TPS materials remains challenging due to the cost, complexity, and limited availability of large arc-jet and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) facilities. Oxy-acetylene testing provides a low-cost and accessible alternative for preliminary material screening, sensor development, and fundamental studies of material response under high heat-flux conditions. This paper presents the design, construction, and initial validation of the High-Enthalpy Acetylene Testing (HEAT) facility at Missouri University of Science and Technology. The facility incorporates a modular experimental architecture, independently controlled oxygen and acetylene mass-flow systems, and a six-cylinder acetylene manifold capable of supporting high fuel flow rates. These features enable operation across a wide range of torch configurations, including larger torch tips that are often impractical in laboratory-scale oxy-acetylene facilities due to fuel-supply limitations. Initial shakedown testing demonstrated successful integration of the gas delivery, torch, and specimen insertion systems. The resulting facility provides a flexible and expandable platform for future heat-flux characterization, thermal protection system material evaluation, and high-temperature sensor development.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Publication Status

Full Access

International Standard Book Number (ISBN)

978-162410779-5

Document Type

Article - Conference proceedings

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2026

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