SYREN - Acoustic Resonance Igniter

To meet the performance goals of the next generation of liquid hydrocarbon boost and upper stage rocket engines, the Air Force will require a new family of reliable and reusable igniters. ORBITEC proposes to develop and demonstrate a highly-reliable, non-toxic ignition system designed for use with LOX-hydrocarbon rocket engines, as well as other rocket engine cycle components such as pre-burners or gas generators. This ignition system will be based on a well-documented physical phenomenon known as acoustic resonance. A resonance igniter offers the promise of a reliable ignition system with no power required other than for operating the igniter propellant valves. Except for these valves, the system will have no moving parts or other external components that may be subject to failure. While some previous research activities have demonstrated the viability of a resonance igniter, no one has developed a truly functional system capable of meeting the future needs of the Air Force launch vehicles. ORBITEC proposes to take that critical next step and develop the SYREN acoustic resonance igniter to the point where it is a mature technology for boosters, upper stage engines, and other rocket engine combustion components. This proposal responds to topic AF081-066, which requests innovations in reliable, reusable, and non-toxic ignition systems for booster and upper stage liquid rocket engines.