Propulsion

3 credits · Undergraduate Programs

Introduction to propulsion for aerospace vehicles. Air-breathing and rocket propulsion systems analyzed using principles from thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and combustion. Individual components such as intakes, compressors, combustors, heat exchangers, turbines, and nozzles will be introduced. Performance parameters, such as thermal and propulsive efficiencies, specific fuel consumption, thrust-to-weight ratio, specific impulse, total impulse, and characteristic velocity, will be used to assess various propulsion concepts. Prerequisite(s): Mechanical Engineering 485 and 495.