Simultaneous Noise and Performance Measurements for High Speed Jet Noise Reduction Technologies: Part II—Near Field Array Calibration

Abstract

Part I of this paper describes a methodology for assessing the far field jet noise from high speed exhaust nozzles using a microphone array in the near field of the exhaust plume. The near field noise measurement is mathematically propagated producing an estimate of the noise level at the new location. Outward propagation produces an estimate of the far field noise. Propagation toward the jet axis produces the source distribution. Part II described here provides a direct validation of this process using a generic CD nozzle in a facility where both the near field and the far field are measured simultaneously. Comparison of these data sets show good agreement over the typical operating range for this type of nozzle. The far field noise is characterized by two independent processes: Shock cell noise radiating in the forward quadrant is produced when the nozzle is operated at non-ideally expanded conditions. Mach wave radiation propagates into the aft quadrant when the exhaust temperature is elevated. Subsequent tests in an acoustically treated nozzle thrust stand demonstrate the value of the near field array allowing immediate feedback on the noise/performance tradeoff for high speed jet noise reduction technologies.