MASTERING THRUST OSCILLATIONS FROM SRM DESIGN PHASE

Paper number

IAC-08.C4.2.3

Author

Mrs. Laurence Guenot, SNPE Materiaux Energetiques, France

Year

2008

Abstract

Thrust oscillations in large  solid rocket motors (SRM) may induce vibrations on the launcher detrimental to the comfort of payloads, thus requiring implementation of damping systems with associated weight and costs penalties.
SNPE Matériaux Energetiques has coped with  this topic for more than 15 years. Extensive studies carried out focused first on understanding the underlying physics, with the aim to tailor and control thrust oscillations from the early design phases of the SRM.
A specific knowledge has been developed, that relies on advanced CFD codes with specific models. The latter are currently validated on experimental subscale SRM data (1/15th) and on available flight data.
The availability of a intermediate scale test bench motor is identified as a particularly valuable asset to increase predicting capabilities of today’s advanced CFD codes.
In the frame of a study conducted with the support of CNES, a subscale SRM has been defined with the aim to be representative of full-scale physics found in Ariane 5 MPS. It will be used to validate experimentally and at a low cost compared to scale 1 tests conducted at BEAP, Kourou the envisaged options for SRM design evolutions derived from CFD. 

Abstract document

IAC-08.C4.2.3.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.C4.2.3.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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