ARS journal · 1961 · 42 citations · 1 references
EngineeringAerospace EngineeringAerodynamicsFluid DynamicsPropulsionAerodynamic DesignEngine DesignLiquid Rocket EnginesNozzle DesignRocket PropulsionThrust Vector ControlAerodynamic ModelingImpulse ControlNozzle PerformanceNozzlesPlug NozzlesPrandtl-meyer ExpansionPrandtl-meyer FlowRocket Nozzle Performance
Plug nozzles exhibit distinct physical characteristics compared to conventional converging‑diverging nozzles. The paper explores how these advantages can be leveraged in liquid‑propellant rocket engines. The aerodynamic performance is analyzed using Prandtl‑Meyer corner expansion, and the plug’s motion is shown to enable chamber‑pressure‑adjusted thrust magnitude, direction, and total impulse control in solid‑propellant engines. Plug nozzles offer superior performance at lower design pressure ratios, reduced size, and improved thrust‑vector control.
The physical characteristics of a plug nozzle are described and compared with a conventional converging-diverging nozzle. The mathematical analysis of the aerodynamic performance of a plug nozzle is outlined, including the Prandtl-Meyer corner expansion of the flowing gas. The advantages of the plug nozzle in terms of superior performance at lower than design pressure ratio, smaller physical size and aerodynamic thrust vector control are described. A brief description is given of how these advantages can be utilized in liquid propellant rocket engines. Application of plug nozzles for solid propellant rocket engines is discussed primarily from the viewpoint of using the plug's movement to adjust for chamber pressure variation, to control thrust magnitude and direction and to control total impulse.
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