Gas Turbine Variable – Geometry Nozzle Design and Build
Problem statement
The Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program (APOP) hosts competitions that have researched different topics, such as thrust vectoring and reversal on the JetCAT P100-RX engine. Large military jets, such as the F-15 and F-16, have variable nozzles, but there is little research into variable nozzles on small gas turbine engines. Variable nozzles would allow users to control thrust on these small gas turbines, which are used for things such as drones or other unmanned aircraft (UAV) In doing so, this could help to increase the maneuverability and efficiency of these vehicles, which in turn, can save costs by keeping these vehicles safe when deployed to dangerous areas and save lives. With a baseline thrust of 22.5 lbs at full engine speed (154,000 rpm) [1], we aim to vary the thrust range by 8 lbs when the engine speed is decreased to 80%. In addition, we aim to keep the added weight of our nozzle under 4 lbs to ensure the safety of the JetCAT, ourselves, and future operators. In doing so, developments such as ours can be used to help further advance our world-renowned military.
Team members
Nathan Chung – facilitator
Parker Weik – communicator
Nolan Welter – accountant
Peter Earll – admin
Client
Michael Cheadle
Mechanical Engineering