Performance modeling of pulse detonation engines using the method of characteristics

• Published in: Aerospace science and technology 2019-05, Vol.88, p.51-64
• Main Authors: Peace, James T., Lu, Frank K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Diverging nozzle; Method of characteristics; Partial filling; Pulse detonation engine
• ISSN: 1270-9638; 1626-3219
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ast.2019.03.015

A quasi-one-dimensional method of characteristics (MOC) model is developed to evaluate the single-cycle gasdynamic flow field and associated propulsive performance of a fully- and partially-filled pulse detonation engine (PDE), and PDEs equipped with diverging nozzles. A detailed description of the PDE thrust chamber flow field is provided to highlight the dominant gasdynamic wave processes encountered in a general single-cycle operation. The MOC model is developed using a simplified unit process approach with an explicit inverse time marching algorithm in order to readily construct the complex thrust chamber flow field along a predefined grid. A grid dependency study is carried out to determine the appropriate grid resolution for the purposes of minimizing computational expense and maximizing numerical accuracy. Lastly, the MOC model is validated with existing numerical and experimental performance data for PDEs operating with oxyhydrogen and hydrocarbon mixtures in both atmospheric and sub-atmospheric environments. It is shown that the current MOC model has good agreement with existing numerical and experimental data for a variety of PDE configurations and operating conditions.