Fundamental Analysis and Design Study of Integration of Precoolers into Advanced Air-Breathing Propulsion Systems for Reusable Launch Vehicles

预冷氢燃料高超音速发动机提供了实现5马赫陆地运输的能力，并使单级可重复使用的运载火箭能够进入轨道。这一概念将彻底改变进入太空的方式，与目前的发射系统相比，可能会将成本降低十倍。推进效率的关键是反应发动机开发的独特预冷器。全球在将此类装置集成到高超声速推进系统方面的经验很少，之前的一项TSB可行性研究强调了一些重要的潜在流效率低下。该项目将进行CFD建模和实验测量，以了解通过预冷器装置的流动情况。该公司将利用这些数据来设计、制造和测试优化后的整流罩和中体，旨在改善预冷器安装的空气动力学。这项研究对于获得这一突破性技术的未来私人投资至关重要，有助于与NSTS保持一致的创新。

Precooled hydrogen fuelled hypersonic engines offer the capability to achieve Mach 5 terrestrial transport and enable single stage to orbit reusable launch vehicles. This concept is set to revolutionise access to space, potentially delivering a ten-fold cost reduction compared to current launch systems. Key to propulsion efficiency is a unique precooler developed by Reaction Engines. There is very little experience globally in the integration of such devices into hypersonic propulsion systems, and a previous TSB feasibility study highlighted some important potential flow inefficiencies. This project will undertake CFD modelling and experimental measurements to provide understanding of the flow through the precooler installation. It will use this to design, manufacture and test an optimised cowl and centrebody aimed at improving the precooler installation aerodynamics. This study is critical to gain future private investment in this ground-breaking technology, aiding innovation in line with NSTS.