Effect of aeroelasticity on the acoustic signature of TOP contoured rocket nozzles in overexpanded conditions

TOP contoured nozzles, with large area-ratios, are commonly employed in rocket propulsion systems as they feature an excellent thrust-to-weight ratio. A significant shortcoming to this design is that, during the startup and shutdown transients of a LRE, the internal nozzle flow progresses through a series of overexpanded flow states - Free Shock...

Fluid-Structure Interaction in Overexpanded Rocket Nozzles

During the start-up and shutdown sequence of rocket engines, immense forces are generated that are required to propel the payload into earth's orbit or outer space. The bulk of the generated forces are in the form of thrust. However, forces are also generated that act perpendicularly to the thrust direction. These side-loads are unwanted...