Optimization study on the isolator length of dual-mode scramjet

Abstract

The dual-mode scramjet is a prime candidate for air-breathing propulsion engines given its broad speed range and high efficiency. The detailed structure of the pseudo-shock wave in the isolator is worth investigating. Therefore, the present study investigates the effect of isolator length on the pseudo-shock wave. We replicate the experimental work of the reference paper with a two-dimensional numerical model. Pressure distribution on the body surface is applied in the numerical validation. The numerical result is in good agreement with that of the existing experimental work. We simulate the thermal choking condition with a throttling device. As the throat area of throttling device decreases, the back pressure continues increasing and the pseudo-shock wave moves upstream. Avoiding unstart phenomenon is a key objective in the operation of dual-mode scramjet. Therefore, we investigate the critical condition shortly before unstart phenomenon occurs. The pseudo-shock wave structure is described by pressure distribution. Our main objective is to explore the effect of isolator length on the dual-mode scramjet. The optimal isolator length depends on the maximum back pressure and total pressure loss in the critical condition shortly before the unstart phenomenon occurs. The maximum back pressure in the critical condition is higher when the isolator length ranges from 8.7 to 20.7. The total pressure loss in the critical condition decreases at the beginning and then increases when the isolator length ranges from 8.7 to 20.7.