Simple Parametric Relations for Solid Rocket Stage Inert Mass Estimation
B.T.C. Zandbergen (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
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Abstract
This study quantifies the relationship between propellant mass and inert mass for solid rocket stages with steel and composite casings. Regression models reveal that steel-cased stages exhibit sub-linear scaling due to structural overhead, while composite-cased stages show lower inert mass and near-linear scaling, partly reflecting modern design improvements. Statistical analysis highlights substantial variability arising from stage-specific design choices, safety factors, and subsystem configurations. The results provide practical guidance for preliminary design, including conservative upper-bound estimates for inert mass and insights into the influence of casing material and stage design.
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