Feasibility Study of Detonation Wave Initiation by Multiple Structured Blockages in a Plain Tube

Abstract

Pulse detonation engines, due to its simplistic design, have gone through critical acclaim in recent years as a viable solution of high-speed propulsion in the aerospace industry. Through various experimental and theoretical methods, researchers are trying for the most explicit method for initiating a controlled detonation in a plain tube. Studies are being conducted on various types of cross sections and multiple forms of blockages to evolve detonation using several chemical and mechanical procedures. Previous study shows a rectangular blockage which blocks about 60% of the flow at 2/3rd distance from the origin produces best detonation wave initiating a sustained exit velocity and increment in pressure. The current paper studies the variation effect of placing multiple blockages in different permutations along the length of the plain tube and their effect on the onset of detonation. It has been observed that multiple blockages placed throughout the length inhibit the possibility of formation of the detonation wave. Further, it has been summarized that an ascending rectangular cascade produces the best onset of detonation wave with a proximal maximum velocity of 10,858 m/s at the outlet when a mixture of kerosene and air at a maximum pressure of 100 MPa is given at the inlet of the tube.