Solid propellant burning rate measurement methods used within the NATO propulsion community

Abstract

The NATO Research and Technology Organization (RTO), Advanced Vehicle Technology (AVT), Working Group (WG) 016 (formerly AGARD/PEP Working Group #27) undertook to evaluate methods in use within the NATO propulsion community to measure burning rate in solid propellent rocket systems, with the purpose of identifying similarities and differences between the participating nations. This WG was formed in 1996, consisting of representatives from 6 of the 15 member nations of NATO, with inputs accepted from 4 other member nations and a couple non-member nations. This work was recently completed and a final report prepared. The NATO RTO/AVT WG 016 sought to contribute to improvements in the burning rate tools to address issues that have plagued the solid propulsion industry for over 40 years. This paper summarizes the objectives, approach, findings, and recommendations of this working group based on activity from October 1997 to March 2001. This paper represents the first release of the results of this study within the US. Recommendations are reviewed on direct and non-intrusive burning rate measurement methods, data analysis methods, and performance scaling to support improved prediction of internal ballistics of a fullscale solid propellant motor.