Rocket-Jet Hybrid, Rocket + Ramjet

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a hybrid propulsion system combining elements of rocket engines and ramjets, specifically exploring the potential for a low-force rocket to enhance the efficiency and thrust of a ramjet through the introduction of cold air. Participants examine various design considerations and existing technologies related to thrust augmentation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that a thrust augmentor could increase jet engine efficiency, likening it to a ramjet where cold air is mixed with hot air instead of burning fuel.
  • Another participant questions the initial post, asking for a source to better understand the context of the claims made.
  • A different participant proposes that altering the intake shape, similar to the design of the 'Blackbird', may yield more benefits than the suggested hybrid approach.
  • There is a mention of a pulse-jet enthusiast who developed a method to create a high-bypass ratio jet engine, which raises questions about the application of such designs.
  • One participant shares a video demonstrating jet pumping principles with a rocket motor, suggesting that redirecting exhaust back into the intake could enhance flow.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of integrating a rocket with a ramjet, with some advocating for design modifications to the intake rather than a hybrid approach. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal configuration for achieving enhanced thrust and efficiency.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various technologies and concepts without fully resolving the implications of their suggestions, leaving open questions about the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed hybrid systems.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to aerospace engineers, propulsion system designers, and enthusiasts exploring advanced propulsion technologies and hybrid systems.

Julian Erickson
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I read that a thrust augmentor can significantly increase the efficiency of a jet engine (http://www.pulse-jets.com/phpbb3/viewtopic.php?t=931). Now from my understanding, the thrust agumentor is sort of like a ramjet. Only, in this case, the cold air is being sucked in along with the hot air that's being forced into it from the previous stage (like a jet jump). The hot air heats the cold air instead of burning fuel like in a ramjet.

So...

Could a low-force rocket pump cold air into a ramjet to provide high force? I don't think I understand all this correctly. I would appreciate any help. Please point me to where I could read about this (someone has already built it I'm sure).
Here is my Frankenstein image in case my words are worthless:
Rocket-_Ramjet.png
 

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Julian Erickson said:
I read that ...
Read where? Do you have a link? You will get more and better answers if we have a better idea where you're starting from.
 
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IMHO, you would get more benefit by altering the intake shape, as was done with the 'Blackbird'. Ramp, cone, spike or whatever.

You may need that rocket to kick-start the main jet, but I reckon the thrust augmenter belongs at the back, where it cannot compromise the intake's airflow. IIRC, a pulse-jet enthusiast in the Antipodes found a real-neat way to put a wide, tuned pipe over the exhaust, creating the equivalent of a high-bypass ratio jet engine. His research publishing was hampered some-what by the possible application to build inexpensive flying-bombs...

If you want a cutting-edge jet-rocket combo, with inter-cooling yet, check out Reaction Engines' fascinating work.
https://www.reactionengines.co.uk/
Disclosure: Some years ago, when I first read about their micro-filament heat exchanger, I asked them if they'd considered diagnosis via Fourier analysis of the 'Aeolian Harping'. Their reply was a BIG smiley...
 
Have a look at this video to see the same principle of jet pumping in action with a rocket motor.



You can also see the effect of entrainment from a rocket engine in this example.

Starts test firing at 8min into the video.



Perhaps it may be possible to redirect some of the exhaust from the jet back into the intake so as to bootstrap the flow too.
 

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