PULSED PERFORMANCE OF A STEAM REACTION JET.
Abstract
The dynamic propulsive performance of a saturated steam reaction jet is analyzed and compared with the results of laboratory experiments. The vacuum thrust levels investigated range from 1 to 15 millipounds. The transient processes, which dominate the short-pulse or limit-cycle mode of thruster operation, are formulated and show good correlation with the data. The apparatus, procedures, and techniques required to obtain accurate test results for a low thrust, dynamic mode of operation are described. Impulse bit size, steam consumption, and specific impulse are characterized in terms of thruster geometry, gas properties, and command pulse width to provide a systematic basis for design. System limitations are discussed and design criteria necessary for successful spacecraft installation are provided. A comparison is made between the system performance of the steam reaction jet and the system performance of six different propellants. The results indicate that steam provides fairly high performance and may be attractive for certain spacecraft applications. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0663422
Entities
People
- D. J. Griep
- H. Greer
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation