Paraffin-Based/LOX Hybrid Rocket Development and Testing
- Paper number
IAC-10.C4.2.8
- Author
Mr. David A. Micheletti, MSE Technology Applications, Inc., United States
- Year
2010
- Abstract
Paraffin-Based/LOX Hybrid Rocket Development and Testing A. Karabeyoglu – SPG, Inc. D.A. Micheletti - Montana Aerospace Development Association Abstract The classical hybrid rocket systems developed to date have suffered from two major shortcomings: 1) complex multiport fuel grains as a result of the poor regression rate performance of the classical polymeric fuels and 2) low frequency instabilities. In the past, the mitigation methods for these problem areas have introduced significant complexity to the motor design, compromising the simplicity advantage of hybrids. For example, the 250 klb motor developed by American Rocket Company (AMROC) was based on a complex 15 port wagon wheel configuration (resulting in poor fuel utilization and expensive fabrication) and the motor stability was achieved by the continuous injection of a hazardous pyrophoric substance, triethylaluminum (TEA). SPG’s paraffin-based/LOX hybrid rocket technology, which has an inherently high fuel regression rate, allows for the use of a simple single circular port fuel grain design approach. SPG has also developed a unique proprietary technology to eliminate the low frequency instabilities in LOX-based hybrids without resorting to external heat or pyrophoric liquid addition at the fore end of the motor. These two technological advancements are crucial in keeping the hybrid concept cost effective, simple and safe compared to the state of the art liquid and solid rocket systems. In March 2009, SPG and the Montana Aerospace Development Association (MADA) initiated a test campaign for SPG’s paraffin-based/LOX hybrid rocket technology at the Butte AeroTec Facility, located near Butte, Montana. Since that time, 15 separate tests of an 11 inch (7,000 lb. class) version of the SPG hybrid rocket have been conducted. SPG and MADA also plan to initiate testing of an 11 inch flight-weight hybrid rocket in April 2010, as well as a 24 inch version in September 2010. This paper provides a detailed overview of the development and testing of the paraffin-based/LOX hybrid rocket.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
(absent)