Advanced Vortex Hybrid Propulsion System (AVHPS)

ORBITEC proposes to develop an Advanced Vortex Hybrid Propulsion System (AVHPS) to meet the demands of highly-reliable, low-cost propulsion systems for small launch vehicles. The benefits of the AVHPS result from the combination of ORBITEC's patentedvortex injection technique and high-regression rate solid fuels. The AVHPS will provide for high volumetric loading and energy density, high combustion efficiency, reliable system performance, safe storage and deployment, and low cost. The Phase I workincludes launch vehicle conceptual designs and trade studies, modifications to an existing thrust chamber assembly, fuel burning characterization under the vortex combustion scheme, throttling and mixture ratio control tests, empirical regression rate andcombustion efficiency correlation development, technical risk identification and management, and Phase II thrust chamber design and test plan. This technology aims to improve propulsion system performance, reliability, and reduce costs associated withsmall launch vehicle propulsion systems. The end product of the overall research and development program will also have application to sounding rockets, reusable and expendable launch vehicles, and upper stage propulsion systems for orbit-insertion.Near-term military applications include: boost-phase interceptors, high-speed and/or high altitude target drones, cruise missile propulsion, and forward observation craft propulsion. Military orbit transfer propulsion systems and satellite maneuveringpropulsion systems can also benefit from this technology. This technology is closely related to ORBITEC's vortex combustion cold-wall (VCCW) chamber technology for liquid bi-propellant applications, and has the potential to dramatically improve liquidrocket and RBCC lifetime, reusability, and thrust-to-weight ratio. Future generation launch vehicles can benefit from these technologies. In addition to these applications, this new type of vortex combustion may have significant industrial benefits. Forexample, many classes of air-fired combustors can use the vortex combustion technology for improved combustion efficiency and potentially reduced emissions.