BLPG Combustion Control by Means of Multipoint Ignition and Chamber Geometry

The key potential advantages of the bulk loaded liquid propellant gun (BLPG), relative to the regenerative liquid propellant gun (RLPG), currently under development, include simplicity, reliability, weight, size and performance. The single and limiting disadvantage of the BLPG concept has been lack of assured combustion control which, on occasion, has resulted in unacceptable damage levels in the gun. It has been observed in electrically ignited BLPG firings that extremely precise ignition timing is possible and that associated initial pressure rise rates are highly reproducible. It is the objective of the proposed Phase I Program to investigate the application of precision multipoint electrical ignition as a means of controlling the BLPG combustion process.