DOI: https://doi.org/10.15368/theses.2015.4
Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/1349
Date of Award
2-2015
Degree Name
MS in Mechanical Engineering
Department/Program
Mechanical Engineering
Advisor
William R. Murray
Abstract
A method of performing local transient heat flux measurements in an uncooled axisymmetric hybrid rocket nozzle is presented. Surface temperatures are collected at various axial locations during short duration tests and post processed using finite difference techniques to determine local transient heat fluxes and film coefficients. Comparisons are made between the collected data and the complete Bartz model. Although strong agreement is observed in certain sections of the nozzle, ideal steady state conditions are not observed to entirely validate the Bartz model for hybrid rocket nozzles. An experimental error analysis indicates the experimental heat fluxes are accurate within ±5.2% and supports the accuracy of the results.