An innovative approach to the development of flush-mounted, high-response, skin-friction gauges that can be used in high-temperature environments has been studied in this project. The objective was to increase the useful temperature range of Reynolds analogy sensors used for data acquisition in flow research and high-speed flight vehicles. High-response, skin-friction sensors must be small, reliable, and capable of operating in extremely high-stagnation-temperature flows.The anemometer concept examined in Phase I involved the development of a ceramic substrate, a microstrate. The purpose of the microstrate was to enhance the frequency response and signal output of a conventional, surface-film and buried-wire configuration. Success was achieved with several types of high-temperature microstrates which were evaluated for further work on sensor integration. Some highly uniform, thin-film tantalum anemometer filaments were also satisfactorily sputtered onto alumina substrates. The process involved a repetitive photo-mask and etch process. The elements were then further evaluated or tested. Elements coated with a thin, oxidation-protective, alumina film were fired to 1300K in air and inspected.Potential Commercial Application:The sensors could apply to flow research, design-data acquisition, and diagnostic testing on high-speed flight vehicles and jet engines.STATUS: Phase I Only
