Epitrochoid Power-law Nozzle Concept for Reducing Launch Architecture Propulsion Costs

Abstract

A description is presented of a new and original 3-dimensional nozzle class incorporating modular thrust cells, the Epitrochoid Powerlaw (EP) Nozzle. A parametric design has been defined that uses epitrochoid planar curves for the nozzle cross-section in conjunction with a power law relationship between the primary radius and the nozzle's axial length, resulting in a radially lobed nozzle configuration. Attributes are described which potentially make the nozzle attractive from a cost and performance perspective in comparison to more conventional nozzle types. The current design approach is described here in detail. Ideal performance of the nozzle is defined. A design reference mission has been selected for nozzle optimization studies and is discussed. Potential research directions for future numerical and physical experiments are discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 16, 2010
Accession Number
ADA533330

Entities

People

  • Eric J. Paulson
  • Ryan P. Starkey

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerospike Engines
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Combustion
  • Combustion Chambers
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Launch Vehicles
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Payload
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Rocket Engines
  • Rocket Propulsion
  • Rockets
  • Three Dimensional
  • Thrust Chambers
  • Thrusters

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Combustion and Flow Dynamics.
  • Statistical inference.