Repetitive laser ignition by optical breakdown of a LOX/H2 rocket combustion chamber with multi-injector head configuration

Michael Börner, Chiara Manfletti, Gerhard Kroupa, Michael Oschwald

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This paper reports on the repetitive laser ignition by optical breakdown within an experimental rocket combustion chamber. Ignition was performed by focusing a laser pulse generated by a miniaturized diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser system. The system, which delivers 33.2 mJ in 2.3 ns, was mounted directly to the combustion chamber. The ignition process and flame stabilization was investigated using an optical probe system monitoring the flame attachment across the 15 coaxial injector configuration. 1195 successful ignitions were performed proving the reliability of this laser ignition system and its applicability to the propellant combination LOX/hydrogen at temperatures of TH2 = 120–282 K and TO2 = 110–281 K.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)289-297
Number of pages9
JournalCEAS Space Journal
Volume9
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2017

Keywords

  • Flame anchoring
  • Flame development
  • Igniter
  • Ignition dynamics
  • Laser ignition
  • Laser plasma ignition

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