Design and cold flow evaluation of a miniature Mach 4 Ramjet

Abstract

Methods used for designing the ramjet included conic shock tables; isentropic flow tables and the GASTURB code was used for aerothermodynamic performance prediction. The flow field through the proposed geometry was computed using the OVERFLOW code, and small modifications were made. Geometry and solid models were created and built using SolidWorks 3D solid modeling software. A prototype ramjet was manufactured with wind tunnel mounting struts capable of measuring axial force on the model. Shadowgraph photography was used in the Mach 4 supersonic wind tunnel at the Naval Postgraduate School's Turbopropulsion Laboratory to verify predicted shock placement, and surface flow visualization was obtained of the airflow from fuel injection ports on the inlet cone of the model. All indications are that the cold-flow tests were successful.