Re: More Challenger Doubletalk and Uncertainty


"George Orwell"

Why don't they use a conventional machined-flat flanged joint where o-rings
are installed in recessed grooves?

There is supposed to be a gap, I think it is 2/100 inch, so that when the joint is pressurized at the ignition time, there is a gap for the o-ring to fill.

If there is no gap, the o-ring stays in the recess, and the hot gasses go through the remaining 1/1000 inch gap. The o-ring burns up, and the joint is never sealed. If that matches what you mean by a "machined-flat flanged joint."


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