Development of a scramaccelerator based hypervelocity launcher

Abstract

The Scramaccelerator, a novel type of supersonic-combustion, tube-based launcher has been developed that can accelerate projectiles to velocities of 3 to over 7 km/sec. Extremely flexible in application, the Scramaccelerator could launch impact specimens, wind tunnel specimens, projectiles, satellites, or spacecraft. This paper describes the technology demonstration of the concept by firing 120 gram projectiles into a 38 mm barrel at 2.8 to 3.2 km/sec at the Titan/CRT Impact Research Laboratory in Albuquerque. This technology promises an upward scalability beyond that of any conventional ballistic guns and electromagnetic launchers for high mass hypervelocity applications. It is the objective of this program to demonstrate the practical application of detonation physics to hypervelocity launchers. Critical test issues discussed include sabot seperation, venting requirements, Scramaccelerator tube requirements, and test performance. The current data indicate projectile accelerations were achieved in excess of 5,000 g's. Hence, these tests finally demonstrate that oblique detonation/supersonic combustion can be harnessed as a useful mechanism for hypervelocity propulsion. In addition, these tests demonstrate hypersonic propulsion at Mach numbers above 9, acceleration at greater than 3 kilometers per second, and system integration technology sufficient to accomplish this success. Scalability of the device allows for the hypervelocity launch of large masses.