Computational Fluid Dynamics for Design and Optimisation of Sramjet Combustors and Nozzles

Scramjet engines exhibit high enthalpy supersonic flows in the combustor region that can be computationally very expensive to model. To faithfully model the flow, finite rate chemical kinetics and hypersonic viscous flow interactions need to be simulated but at the same time a need for fast solution turn around is also important. The design of such combustion chambers has historically been based on experimental analysis and simplified computational modeling. This method of "design and try" cycling has been adequate for the most part however it inherently takes a lot of time and money before the optimum design is achieved.

Publications:

1. Jacobs, P. A. and Craddock, C. S., "Simulation and Optimisation of Three-Dimensional Flows in Scramjet Ducts" Twelfth International Symposium on Air Breathing Engines Conference. Melbourne, Australia. September 1995.
2. Craddock, C. S. "A Quasi-One-Dimensional Flow Solver with Finite Rate Chemical Effects", Departmental of Mechanical Engineering Report. The University of Queensland, 1996.