Laser ignition of a research 200N RCS LOx/GH2 and LOx/GCH4 engine

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

An extensive test campaign has been conducted to assess the feasibility of the implemen- tation of laser ignition in cryogenic RCS and OMS engines. The 200N research thruster used for this purpose is a single-coaxial injector element combustion chamber. A table-top laser with a system of mirrors and a lens was used as ignition system. This paper reports lo- cation of energy deposition, levels of energy deposited and associated ignition probabilities for the propellant combinations LOx/GH2 and LOx/GCH4. Gas-breakdown (plasma) ig- nition and ablation ignition were both tested. Minimum energies were lower for LOx/GH2 (72 mJ) than for LOx/GCH4 (92 mJ) and lower for ablation (14.5 mJ for LOx/GH2 and 61.7 mJ for LOx/GCH4) than plasma ignition. Regions for successful energy deposition for 100% ignition success were also identified. Finally it has been established that the dynamic of ame growth determines ignition overpressure in a laser ignited chamber. A separate paper has been dedicated to the discussion of the in uence of pre-ignition conditions and flow fields on altitude ignition.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication48th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit 2012
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc.
ISBN (Print)9781600869358
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes
Event48th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit 2012 - Atlanta, GA, United States
Duration: 30 Jul 20121 Aug 2012

Publication series

Name48th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit 2012

Conference

Conference48th AIAA/ASME/SAE/ASEE Joint Propulsion Conference and Exhibit 2012
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta, GA
Period30/07/121/08/12

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