Scramjet Flow Field Control Using Magnetogasdynamics
Abstract
Sustained hypersonic fight using scramjet propulsion is the key technology bridging the gap between turbojets and the exoatmospheric environment where a rocket is required. Recent efforts have focused on electromagnetic (EM) flow control to mitigate the problems of high thermomechanical loads and low propulsion efficiencies associated with scramjet propulsion. Numerical simulations were employed to determine how EM flow control can improve scramjet performance. The research effort focused on applying both local flow field control and the system level magnetogasdynamic (MGD) energy bypass method to a flight-scale scramjet. This report highlights the major accomplishments of this research effort. Combustor-based MGD generators proved superior to inlet generators with respect to power density and overall engine efficiency. MGD acceleration was shown to be ineffective in improving overall performance with all of the bypass engines having approximately 33% more drag than baseline engine without EM flow control, and none of them achieved a self-powered state.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA461539
Entities
People
- Richard J. Mcmullan
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology