Thrust Reverser for a JetCat P100x Turbojet Engine
Problem statement
With the goal of exposing undergraduates to opportunities within the Air Force and allow further research on jet engines, the Air Force Research Laboratory started the Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program (APOP) in 2010. Participants of the 2023-2024 APOP competition are tasked with researching, designing, and manufacturing thrust reversal systems for the JetCAT P100-RX engine. As part of past competitions, thrust vectoring systems have been researched, but no solutions were developed for complete thrust reversal. Thrust reversal technology allows for motion, opposite of the intended direction. Prior developments saw thrust vectoring designs operated near the running engine. With exhaust temperatures as high as 1300 degrees Fahrenheit and components rotating at extremely high speeds, small operational errors can result in serious injury or death. In addition to providing complete thrust reversal up to 8 [lbf], we aim to develop a remote operating device that can successfully deploy and retract the device at a minimum distance of 20 [ft]. The final device will ensure safety for operators and result in continued cooperation between undergraduate engineers and our nation’s well-respected military.
Team members
Kevin Nuno – leader
Sam Beffa – communicator
Ethan Burton – accountant
Nick Nass – admin
Client
Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program