Hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor for space application

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor for space applications. The idea is to use the pulse jet to lift a payload in Earth's atmosphere and then switch to a rocket motor in space to reduce the use of on-board oxygen. The questions revolve around the capability of pulse jets to produce enough thrust for this application and the considerations needed for its feasibility. The speaker advises doing research on the capabilities of the stages and calculating the amount of extra fuel needed for acceleration. They also mention the SABRE engine as a reference.
  • #1
Tiah
2
0
Hi,

Im currently working on a project to design a hybrid pulse-je/rocket motor for space applications. The Pulse jet is to lift a payload in the Earth's atmosphere then reverts to a rocket motor in space. The idea is to reduce the use of on-board oxygen during ascent since it initially breathes air.

Questions:
Does pulse jets have the capability to produce enough thrust for this application?
What considerations are needed to justify its feasibility?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You have to do a bit of research first...How do you plan to design a dual purpose engine (I imagine you only need to design its operating parameters and requirements, but still) if you don't want to look up the capabilities of the stages you are looking at...
 
  • #3
You need to figure out how fast the pulse jet will be able to take the craft, and then do the math to figure out how much extra fuel your rocket will need to accelerate the mass of the extra motor.

Then, you need to figure out the cost savings for the fuel and find out if the cost of the extra motor plus complexity plus failure risk is worth it.
 
  • #4
BTW, you are probably going to want to research the work that went into the SABRE engine:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SABRE_(rocket_engine )
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #5
Thank you for the advice and replies! They are of great help!
 

1. What is a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor?

A hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor is a propulsion system that combines the principles of both a pulse-jet engine and a rocket engine. It uses a solid fuel grain, like a rocket engine, but also utilizes a gaseous oxidizer, like a pulse-jet engine. This allows for a more efficient and controllable thrust output.

2. How does a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor work?

The hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor works by igniting the solid fuel grain, which creates hot gases that are then mixed with the gaseous oxidizer. This mixture is then ignited, creating a continuous combustion process that produces thrust. The rate of thrust can be controlled by varying the amount of oxidizer injected into the combustion chamber.

3. What are the advantages of a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor for space applications?

There are several advantages to using a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor for space applications. One major advantage is the ability to throttle the thrust, which allows for more precise control and maneuverability in space. Additionally, the combination of solid fuel and gaseous oxidizer can result in a more efficient and lightweight propulsion system, making it ideal for space travel.

4. What are the potential challenges or limitations of a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor?

One potential challenge of a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor is the complexity of the design and development process. It requires a deep understanding of both pulse-jet and rocket engine principles, as well as careful integration of the two systems. Another limitation is the need for a reliable and precise injection system for the gaseous oxidizer, which can be difficult to achieve in space environments.

5. Has a hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motor been used in space missions before?

While there have been several ground-based tests and demonstrations of hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motors, it has not yet been used in any space missions. However, there is ongoing research and development in this area, and it is possible that we may see the use of hybrid pulse-jet/rocket motors in future space missions.

Similar threads

NASA NASA - Bimodal NTP/NEP with a Wave Rotor Topping Cycle
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
1
Views
2K
Ramjet artillery shell of a big size
    • Aerospace Engineering
2
Replies
35
Views
3K
Low Atmosphere Rocket Launch Stages Carry Their Own Oxygen -- Why?
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K
Misc. Designing a Model Aircraft: Calculating Thrust and Lift for an Efficient Flight
    • DIY Projects
Replies
9
Views
2K
Kerbal Space Program - Duna Rocket Launch
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
4
Views
3K
Kerbal Space Program - Rocket Design Basics
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • Sticky
Kerbal Space Program Tutorial Series - Open Access to 1.7
    • Aerospace Engineering
2
Replies
48
Views
60K
Rocket design -300km range, 5-15kg payload, 200mg accuracy
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
8
Views
5K
Alternative spacelaunch methods
    • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
10
Views
4K
Help needed to design a pulse jet engine.
    • General Engineering
Replies
4
Views
13K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top