This study was initiated to identify operations problems and cost drivers for current propulsion systems and to identify technology and design approaches to increase the operational efficiency and reduce operations costs for future propulsion systems. To provide readily usable data for the Advanced Launch System (ALS) program, the results of the OEPSS study have been organized into a series of OEPSS Data Books. This volume describes three propulsion concepts that will simplify the propulsion system design and significantly reduce operational requirements. The concepts include: (1) a fully integrated, booster propulsion module concept for the ALS that avoids the complex system created by using autonomous engines with numerous artificial interfaces; (2) an LOX tank aft concept which avoids potentially dangerous geysering in long LOX propellant lines; and (3) an air augmented, rocket engine nozzle afterburning propulsion concept that will significantly reduce LOX propellant requirements, reduce vehicle size and simplify ground operations and ground support equipment and facilities.
Operationally Efficient Propulsion System Study (OEPSS) Data Book. Volume 4: OEPSS Design Concepts
1990
95 pages
Report
No indication
English
Rocket Engines & Motors , Advanced launch system (Sts) , Propellant tanks , Spacecraft propulsion , Thrust augmentation , Ground support equipment , Spacecraft launching , Afterburning , Complex systems , Cost reduction , Engine design , Liquid hydrogen , Liquid oxygen , Propulsion system configurations , Propulsion system performance , Rocket engines