Date of Graduation
5-2008
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Abstract
This research has developed and constructed a successful miniature hybrid rocket test assembly for research into hybrid rocket scaling issues. It is hoped that such systems will find eventual integration into small satellites. The test assembly houses 3" fuel grains and provides an inlet for gaseous oxidizer. Although far from complete, preliminary data were taken with PMMA and GOx and some useful conclusions were drawn that will benefit future research into this topic. Fuel grains with combustion chambers whose diameters range from 1/16" to 3/8" were tested at different flow rates and thrust data gathered. Maximum flow information was gathered for the 3/8", 5/16", ¼", and 1/16" fuel grains. Supersonic exhaust was found to exist when chamber diameters were at or below 3/16". Thrust scaling trends were obtained for the 3/16" and 1/8" grains. No quenching limit was found to exist in these grain sizes.
Citation
Willingham, D. (2008). Development of Miniature Hybrid Rockets for Orbital Upkeep and Transfer Applications in Nano/Pico-Satellites. Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/meeguht/9
Included in
Applied Mechanics Commons, Electro-Mechanical Systems Commons, Other Mechanical Engineering Commons