1. Reuben Schuff Propulsion Design – Feb 19, 2015
Distribution & Data Rights:
Document is unrestricted and contains no proprietary data or export controlled material.
Prepared for CU Boulder ASEN 6008

2. Objective
Explain the practical difficulties with predicting and measuring delivered performance for rocket propulsion (Isp, Itot)
Break down the key aspects for rocket propulsion performance and areas of concern
Provide additional references
Q&A

7. Takeways
Performance prediction involves uncertainties in combustion and expansion (c*, Cf)
Computer codes useful in calculating efficiencies, but validation with test data is required.
Difficulties in performance measurements of massflow and thrust
Stage testing required to get accuracy data

8. References Textbooks: Rocket Propulsion Elements, Sutton
Space Propulsion Analysis and Design, Humble
Mechanics and Thermodynamics of Propulsion, Hill & Peterson
Solid Propellant Grain Design and Internal Ballistics, NASA SP-8076
Design of Liquid Propellant Rocket Engines, NASA SP-125
JANNAF Engine Performance Prediction and Evaluation Manual, CPIA 246
JANNAF Rocket Engine Test Data Acquisition and Interpretation Manual, CPIA 245
Reuben Schuff