Advanced High Mass Fraction Tactical Rocket Motor Case

The higher Mach number flight capability required in future missile systems has necessitated the development of advanced materials capable of surviving the increased thermal loads expected in these systems. Although previous research has indicated that titanium matrix composites (TMCs) are a potential solution to this problem, the high cost of these materials has severely hindered their consideration. Recently, FMW has developed a series of nano-enhanced titanium alloys that possess tensile properties nearly equal to those of TMCs. As the enhancement is achieved during spray atomization of the starting alloy powder, the enhanced alloys are essentially cost neutral relative to the base alloy. In this effort, FMW will demonstrate the successful scale-up of a nano-enhanced titanium pressure vessel through hot-rolled and welded-case process leaders. Once the baseline roll and welding technology is proven, two full-scale four inch diameter AMRAAM sized cases will be fabricated and tested. The first will be subjected to combined loads testing and hydro-burst, while the second will be insulated and static fired with a heavy wall nozzle and head closure. The results of the firing will be analyzed and revised case performance projections will be completed in the final report.