Some Topics of Research on Hypersonic Airbreathing Engines at National Aerospace Laboratory

Abstract

Some research tupics on hypersonic airbreathing engines conducted at National Aerospace Laboratory in Japan (NAL) are introduced. Variable Cycle engine (VCE) for the next generation supersonic transports (SST), Combined turbo-ramjet engine for hypersonic transports (HST) and turbo-engines, such as Airturbo-ramjet engine (ATR), and Scramjet engine for Space Plane propulsion systems are being studied. Engine system design to make evaluate capability for Space Plane and system optimization are described. Component studies; supersonic air-intake with mixed and internal compression configuration, hydrogen fueled ram-combustor, supersonic combustion chamber, high temperature and highly loaded turbo-component, regenerative heat exchanger and noise reduction nozzle are being conducted and some results are presented. In the material study, carbon/carbon composites, metal compound metal matrix composites and functionally gradient material (FGM) are also investigated and evaluated for application to high temperature and/or light weight structures.