The significance of Edney Type Ⅳ interactions, or Shockwave interference heating as it was first labelled was seen in a flight test of the X-15 hypersonic research aircraft. A hypersonic research engine model was attached to the underside of the aircraft, and the oblique shock generated by the wing of the X-15 interacted with the bow shock of the engine support pylon. This resulted in catastrophic damage to the pylon and incineration of part of the protective skin. This damage was due to an increase in the peak heat transfer and pressure at the surface of the pylon. Understanding and controlling these interactions is a key part of moving forward in creating and maintaining a viable hypersonic program.
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