Propulsive performance of a pulse detonation rocket engine without the purge process

To measure the propulsive performance of a high-frequency PDRE (pulse detonation rocket engine), an experimental facility was established. Utilizing the valveless mode, the PDRE was operated without the purge process at a maximum operating frequency of 110 Hz successfully. In this study, oxygen-enriched air instead of oxygen was utilized as oxidizer and liquid gasoline was used as fuel because its vaporization would cool the hot combustion products, which would create a buffer zone and ensure stable operation without the purge process. The thrust under a wide range of operating frequencies was obtained including over and partially filled cases. Based on the results of partially filled conditions, one empirical formula for the partial fill effect was developed. In addition, analysis was carried out which resulted in a quite similar equation. Therefore, a partial fill model for the valveless PDRE without the purge process was obtained. Finally, comparisons between the proposed model and other models developed in traditional operations were performed. •High-frequency operation was achieved based on the valveless operation scheme.•The average thrust at different frequencies was measured.•A partial fill model for the valveless PDRE without the purge process was obtained.