Conception, Dimensioning and Design of a High Pressure System for a Gel-based Sounding Rocket Upper Stage

Abstract

For a gel-based sounding rocket upper stage, a high pressure system is required to transport the gel-propellant and to supply subsystems. In this thesis the high pressure system is conceptioned, dimensioned and designed. Besides a detailed research on propulsion systems, gases, valves and tubes, the initial situation is elaborated and system requirements are derived. After the description of the task, all relevant aspects of the system are determined in the conception and design. This includes, among other things, the selection of a working medium, calculation of the required volume flows, volumes and pressure losses, a detailed elaboration of the system architecture, the selection of the necessary components such as valves and high pressure tank as well as the study of various packaging concepts. The high pressure system is then worked out by the help of a CAD software, positioning the previously determined system components and designing possibilities for mounting, as well as taking into account installation and assembly specifications. After the creation of a detailed CAD model of the high pressure system a parts list of all components is created, serving as a basis for the subsequent procurement of the components and assembly of a prototype.