Research - Pulsed detonation engine technology
A total of three small-scale pulsed detonation engines (or PDE) were used in this exciting research collaboration between Temasek Laboratories and The University of Texas, Arlington. They were known (at least to me) as Mark 0, 1 and 2 designs which gradually improved upon the last design based on improved understanding of the detonation phenomenon as well as design and material strength issues. I was very fortunate to be funded by Temasek Laboratories to carry out this piece of research in the Aerodynamics Research Center (ARC) with research guidance provided by Professor Frank Lu.
PDE Mark 0 Experimental Rig
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Light-weight PDE |
Rotary valve with rotating shaft |
Another rotary valve view |
Pretty old DAQ system |
With full manual settings |
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Workstation interfacing with DAQ system |
Data captured by DAQ system |
In-house ignition system |
Innates of ignition system |
Off-the-shelf automotive coil |
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Off-the-shelf autmotive ignition box
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Igniter based on tungsten rods |
Fuel-oxidizer flow controls |
Critical flow nozzle metering |
Setting up the PDE |
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Fully set up PDE |
View from the other side |
Stainless stain pipe changed colour after experiment |
Igniter blown off after some experiments |
Electrical meltdown in some instances |
During the course of using the DSP TRAQ-I DAQ system, I wrote a brief operating manual describing the system and how to set the data acquisition parameters for high-speed operations. Since then, the system has been superceded by a new National Instruments PXI system. But if for some reason, you need to get a quick rundown of the DSP TRAQ-I system, you can download my operating manual here.
PDE Mark 1 Experimental Rig
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PDE shipped from Singapore to Texas |
Assemblying stage 1 |
Assemblying stage 2 |
Assemblying stage 3 |
Injection and ignition chambers |
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Dynamic pressure transducers |
Detonation tube assembly |
PDE rig |
Purge-air and exhaust system |
Rotary-valve setup |
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Flash arrestors |
Sonic nozzles for flow metering |
High-speed DAQ system |
Control workstation |
Improved exhaust system |
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Remote control box |
Lanthanated |
Ignition rods |
Ignition rod construction |
Schelkin spiral after testing |