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| Numerical Modeling of Detonation Waves in Wedged Channels |
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| Numerical modeling of a detonation wave in a wedged channel is a fundamental problem with applications in aerospace propulsion systems. Previous literature has addressed oblique detonation wave engine (ODWE) concepts which possibly could be integrated with a ramjet or scramjet to extend an operational speed range for a high-performance aircraft/SSTO. Initial parametric studies involved a 5 to 20 degree wedged channel in Mach 2-6.5 flow with varying pressure and temperature. A finite-volume algorithm was run with 2D Euler equations and a Rogers-Chinitz two-step hydrogen-oxygen reaction with five species. Numerous interacting flow domains have been observed and are outlined below. |
- (PDW and PSW) A propagating detonation wave is initiated by reflections on the aftbody or channel wall for a combination of low incoming Mach numbers and high wedge angles. In some cases, only a shock wave propagates upstream.
- (Complex area) A combination of all flow domains occur for a certain range of conditions. This situation results from the fact that the flow field is physically complex and unsteady shocks can form. Future work can improve the knowledge of the instability mechanisms to better understand this area.
- (SDW and SSW) For Mach numbers generally above 5.0 a standing detonation wave is observed for modest wedge angles. Previous studies have found a standing detonation wave to be unsteady, but the conditions for this study have been modified and the domain appears to exist. The fuel flow could also be pulsed in an engine configuration to support these PDW and SDW waves. A standing shock is seen when the wedge angle is very narrow.
- Videos of each domain can be viewed here.
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| Current research involves exploring the phenomena found in confined, wedge-induced steady flows (the wave processes in particular). The processes involve complex wave reflections that can influence the initiation, transition, and wave propagation. At the end of this study, we should better understand how and where the detonation wave is initiated, the threshold wedge angle for initiation, the influence of viscosity, how complex structures are formed, the influence of a second angle, etc. |
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