Ram to scram mode transition in a simulated flight acceleration

Abstract

Thrust abruption due to mode transition could be catastrophic for hypersonic vehicles. To understand the underlying physics, a direct-connected transient Flight Trajectory Simulator 1 (FTS-1) has been developed at the Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. This facility uses advanced high-speed measuring techniques, including thrust and static wall pressure measurement, and Schlieren and hydrocarbon radical chemiluminescence (CH* chemiluminescence) imaging. Kerosene-fueled dual-mode combustor experiments are designed in an acceleration trajectory. The basic operation parameters and the flame and flow dynamics of the acceleration induced mode transition are evaluated. Discussions are given on the triggering mechanisms responsible for the ram to scram mode transition in a simulated flight acceleration.