OPTIMIZING AND SCALING OF HYPERVELOCITY LAUNCHERS AND COMPARISON WITH MEASURED DATA
Abstract
A recently developed theory for computing the internal ballistics of two-stage, light-gas launchers is described. This theory includes the effects of real gas, boundary layers, heat transfer, and piston friction. It has been applied to launchers ranging in size from 0.50- to 2.50-in. caliber and at velocities up to 32,000 ft/sec. Initial cycles for computation and experiment sometimes were obtained by 'linear scaling' from various successful small launchers. The internal ballistics of several launchers, ranging in size from 0. 5- to 2.5-in. caliber, have been measured and are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions. These data have given an indirect measure of such factors as piston friction and boundary-layer effects, allowing comparisons between guns of different sizes. It appears that the theory represents a distinct improvement over previous theories used by the authors and can now be used to predict performance of launcher configurations as yet untested. The simple linear scaling can be used to transfer successful launch cycles from one size of launcher to another of similar geometry but different scale. It can also assist in selecting launcher configurations to be tested by the more accurate theory or experiment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0812849
Entities
People
- A. J. Cable
- J. R. Dewitt
Organizations
- Arnold Engineering Development Complex