Rocket Propulsion Elements

THE DEFINITIVE INTRODUCTION TO ROCKET PROPULSION THEORY AND APPLICATIONS

The recent upsurge in global government and private spending and in space flight events has resulted in many novel applications of rocket propulsion technology. Rocket Propulsion Elements remains the definitive guide to the field, providing a comprehensive introduction to essential concepts and applications. Led by industry veteran George P. Sutton and by Professor Oscar Biblarz, this book provides interdisciplinary coverage including thermodynamics, aerodynamics, flight performance, propellant chemistry and more.

This thoroughly revised ninth edition includes discussion and analysis of recent advances in the field, representing an authoritative reference for students and working engineers alike. In any engineering field, theory is only as useful as it is practical; this book emphasizes relevant real–world applications of fundamental concepts to link "thinking" and "doing". This book will help readers:

Understand the physics of flight and the chemistry of propulsion Analyze liquid, solid, gas, and hybrid propellants, and the engines they fuel Consider high–temperature combustion, stability, and the principles of electric and chemical propulsion Dissect the workings of systems in common use around the world today Delve into the latest advances in materials, systems, propellants, and more

Broad in scope, rich in detail, and clear in explanation, this seminal work provides an unparalleled foundation in aerospace engineering topics. Learning through the lens of modern applications untangles complex topics and helps students fully grasp the intricacies on a more intuitive level. Rocket Propulsion Elements, Ninth Edition merges information and utility building a solid foundation for innovation.

Preface

Chapter 1 Classification

1.1 Duct Jet Propulsion

1.2 Rocket Propulsion

1.3 Applications of Rocket Propulsion

References

Chapter 2 Definitions and Fundamentals

2.1 Definitions

2.2 Thrust

2.3 Exhaust Velocity

2.4 Energy and Efficiencies

2.5 Multiple Propulsion Systems

2.6 Typical Performance Values

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 3 Nozzle Theory and Thermodynamic Relations

3.1 Ideal Rocket Propulsion Systems

3.2 Summary of Thermodynamic Relations

3.3 Isentropic Flow Through Nozzles

3.4 Nozzle Configurations

3.5 Real Nozzles

3.6 Nozzle Alignment

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 4 Flight Performance

4.1 Gravity–Free Drag–Free Space Flight

4.2 Forces Acting on a Vehicle in the Atmosphere

4.3 Basic Relations of Motion

4.4 Space Flight

4.5 Space Flight Maneuvers

4.6 Effect of Propulsion System on Vehicle Performance

4.7 Flight Vehicles

4.8 Military Missiles

4.9 Flight Stability

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 5 Chemical Rocket Propellant Performance Analysis

5.1 Background and Fundamentals

5.2 Analysis of Chamber or Motor Case Conditions

5.3 Analysis of Nozzle Expansion Processes

5.4 Computer–Assisted Analysis

5.5 Results of Thermochemical Calculations

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 6 Liquid Propellant Rocket Engine Fundamentals

6.1 Types of Propellants

6.2 Propellant Tanks

6.3 Propellant Feed Systems

6.4 Gas Pressure Feed Systems

6.5 Tank Pressurization

6.6 Turbopump Feed Systems and Engine Cycles

6.7 Rocket Engines for Maneuvering, Orbit Adjustments, or Attitude Control

6.8 Engine Families

6.9 Valves and Pipelines

6.10 Engine Support Structure

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 7 Liquid Propellants

7.1 Propellant Properties

7.2 Liquid Oxidizers

7.3 Liquid Fuels

7.4 Liquid Monopropellants

7.5 Gaseous Propellants

7.6 Safety and Environmental Concerns

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 8 Thrust Chambers

8.1 Injectors

8.2 Combustion Chamber and Nozzle

8.3 Low–Thrust Rocket Thrust Chambers or Thrusters

8.4 Materials and Fabrication

8.5 Heat Transfer Analysis

8.6 Starting and Ignition

8.7 Useful Life of Thrust Chambers

8.8 Random Variable Thrust

8.9 Sample Thrust Chamber Design Analysis

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 9 Liquid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability

9.1 Combustion Process

9.2 Analysis and Simulation

9.3 Combustion Instability

Problems

References

Chapter 10 Turbopumps and their Gas Supplies

10.1 Introduction

10.2 Descriptions of Several Turbopumps

10.3 Selection of Turbopump Configuration

10.4 Flow, Shaft Speeds, Power, and Pressure Balances

10.5 Pumps

10.6 Turbines

10.7 Approach to Turbopump Preliminary Design

10.8 Gas Generators and Preburners

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 11 Engine Systems, Controls, and Integration

11.1 Propellant Budget

11.2 Performance of Complete or Multiple Rocket Propulsion Systems

11.3 Engine Design

11.4 Engine Controls

11.5 Engine System Calibration

11.6 System Integration and Engine Optimization

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 12 Solid Propellant Rocket Motor Fundamentals

12.1 Basic Relations and Propellant Burning Rate

12.2 Other Performance Issues

12.3 Propellant Grain and Grain Configuration

12.4 Propellant Grain Stress and Strain

12.5 Attitude Control and Side Maneuvers with Solid Propellant Rocket Motors

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 13 Solid Propellants

13.1 Classification

13.2 Propellant Characteristics

13.3 Hazards

13.4 Propellant Ingredients

13.5 Other Propellant Categories

13.6 Liners, Insulators, and Inhibitors

13.7 Propellant Processing and Manufacture

Problems

References

Chapter 14 Solid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability

14.1 Physical and Chemical Processes

14.2 Ignition Process

14.3 Extinction or Thrust Termination

14.4 Combustion Instability

Problems

References

Chapter 15 Solid Rocket Components and Motor Design

15.1 Motor Case

15.2 Nozzles1

15.3 Igniter Hardware

15.4 Rocket Motor Design Approach

Problems

References

Chapter 16 Hybrid Propellant Rockets∗

16.1 Applications and Propellants

16.2 Interior Hybrid Motor Ballistics

16.3 Performance Analysis and Grain Configuration

16.4 Design Example

16.5 Combustion Instability

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 17 Electric Propulsion

17.1 Ideal Flight Performance

17.2 Electrothermal Thrusters

17.3 Nonthermal Electrical Thrusters

17.4 Optimum Flight Performance

17.5 Mission Applications

17.6 Electric Space–Power Supplies and Power–Conditioning Systems

Symbols

Problems

References

Chapter 18 Thrust Vector Control

18.1 TVC Mechanisms with a Single Nozzle

18.2 TVC with Multiple Thrust Chambers or Nozzles

18.3 Testing

18.4 Integration with Vehicle

Problems

References

Chapter 19 Selection of Rocket Propulsion Systems

19.1 Selection Process

19.2 Criteria for Selection

19.3 Interfaces

References

Chapter 20 Rocket Exhaust Plumes

20.1 Plume Appearance and Flow Behavior

20.2 Plume Effects

20.3 Analysis and Mathematical Simulation

Problems

References

Chapter 21 Rocket Testing

21.1 Types of Tests

21.2 Test Facilities and Safeguards

21.3 Instrumentation and Data Management

21.4 Flight Testing

21.5 Postaccident Procedures

References

Appendix 1 Conversion Factors and Constants

Conversion Factors (arranged alphabetically)

Appendix 2 Properties of the Earth′s Standard Atmosphere

Appendix 3 Summary of Key equations For Ideal Chemical Rockets

GEORGE P. SUTTON is an acknowledged expert on rocket propulsion, and the former Executive Director of Engineering at Rocketdyne (now Aerojet Rocketdyne), and Laboratory Associate at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

OSCAR BIBLARZ is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California.