Fluid-structure interaction considerations for solid rocket motor internal ballistics modeling

Giovanni Montesano, Ryerson University

Date of Award

2005

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Applied Science (MASc)

Department

Mechanical Engineering

First Advisor

Kamran Behdinan

Second Advisor

Zouheir Fawaz

Abstract

A study of the numerical modeling and prediction of nonlinear unsteady combustion instability within the combustion chamber of a solid rocket motor (SRM) is the main objective. The numerical model consists of a three-dimensional finite-element representation of a cylindrical-grain motor, coupled to a quasi-one-dimensional internal ballistic flow (IBF) model, where a quasi-steady rapid kinetic rate burning rate algorithm is used to model the propellant combustion and regression. Fluid-structure-combustion interaction subroutines are also employed to control the simulated motor firings and the data transferred between the fluid, structure and burning rate model components.

Results illustrating the significant effects of structural vibrations on the burning rate and consequently the IBF are shown and compared to experimental data. Modeling considerations are illustrated, giving insight into the physical phenomena of SRM combustion instability.