Comparison of Detonation Processes in a Variable Cross Section Chamber and a Simple Tube

The detonation processes occurring in a variable cross section detonation chamber are compared with that occurring in a simple, constant cross section tube. The variable cross section chamber is made up of a large tube and two small identical tubes connected on each side through frustums. The simple tube has the same diameter as the small tubes of the variable cross section chamber and the same total length as the entire variable section chamber. Both channels are closed at the left end and opened at the right. A two-dimensional, time-accurate, finite volume-based method is used to perform the computations. A five-species, two-step global hydrogen–air reaction mechanism is used. The study showed complex wave phenomena in the variable cross section chamber that have an impact on thrust and specific impulse.