Pulse Detonation Engine Nozzle Design and CFD Analysis

Abstract

Pulse detonation engine (PDE) can possibly give better performance with extra benefits like light in weight, cheaper and decreased design complexity, in comparison with other modern engines at present being used. These advantages are because of the higher thermal efficiency obtained owing to constant volume ignition. Pulse detonation cycle can be utilized for both air-breathing and rocket based engines.

The design and CFD analysis of various nozzles were done for performance enhancement of Pulse Detonation Engine. Four different conical divergent nozzles and four different bell shaped nozzles were designed and analyzed using CFD. Both types of nozzles expanded the flow in accordance with their length and angle. The Bell shaped nozzle with large expansion angle was found to be most suitable for PDE as it was capable to expand the flow more than any other nozzle. So, the bell shaped nozzles with large expansion angle are recommended for performance enhancement of pulse detonation engines.