Computational Design of Upperstage Chamber, Aerospike, and Cooling Jacket for Dual-Expander Rocket Engine

To increase the performance of the current US satellite launch capability, new rocket designs must be undertaken. One concept that has been around since the 50s but yet to be utilized on a launch platform is the aerospike, or plug nozzle. The aerospike nozzle concept demonstrates globally better performance compared to a conventional bell nozzle, since the expansion of the jet is not bounded by a wall and therefore can adjust to the environment by changing the outer jet boundary. A dual-expander aerospike nozzle (DEAN) rocket concept would exceed the Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology initiative (IHPRPT) phase three goals. This document covers the design of the chamber and nozzle of the DEAN. The validation of the design of the DEAN are based on the model in Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS TM), added with the nozzle design from Two-Dimensional Kinematics (TDK 04TM). The result is a rocket engine that produces 57,231 lbf (254.5 kN) of thrust at an Isp of 472 s. Additionally, the oxygen wall is made of silicon carbide, with a melting point of 5580 R (3100 K), and has a maximum temperature at the throat of 1625 R (902 K).This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant. Read more