Rocket Propulsion Elements, 9th Edition

Rocket Propulsion Elements, 9th Edition

by George P. Sutton, Oscar Biblarz
Released January 2017
Publisher(s): Wiley
ISBN: 9781118753651

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Book description

The classic rocket propulsion text, updated with the industry's latest advances

Rocket Propulsion Elements is the definitive guide for students and professionals, with comprehensive coverage from one of the field's most respected authorities. Combining fundamental concepts with industry applications, this book provides a practical introduction to rocket propulsion principles, mechanisms, and design as applied to guided missiles, space flight, satellite flight, and more. This new ninth edition has been updated to cover the latest advances in the field, including new technologies in systems design, materials, propellants, applications, and manufacturing, with an emphasis on system types commonly used around the world today. Broad in scope yet rich in detail, the discussion covers a wide range of topics from engine performance to propellant chemistry to provide a clear, comprehensive resource for all aspects of rocket propulsion.

Rocket propulsion technology is advancing quickly, driven by a global upsurge in defense spending. Those who design these systems require a strong grounding in the physics and chemistry of rocket propulsion systems, as well as an up-to-date understanding of current industry applications. This book delivers the fundamentals with the guidance of an industry-leading expert. 

  • Delve into rockets' mechanical systems and design
  • Develop a working knowledge of propellant chemistry
  • Understand aerodynamics, flight performance, and industry applications
  • Learn the latest advances in materials, systems, propellants, and more

This book's unique strength is the presentation of fundamental concepts through the lens of modern applications. As with any engineering field, theory is useful only when it's applied; this book takes a decidedly practical approach to help you link "thinking" and "doing" in a way that will make you a productive engineer. Rocket Propulsion Elements provides a solid grounding in principle and a clear understanding of real-world function.

Table of contents

  1. Cover
  2. Title Page
  3. Copyright
  4. Preface
  5. Chapter 1: Classification
    1. 1.1. Duct Jet Propulsion
    2. 1.2. Rocket Propulsion
    3. 1.3. Applications of Rocket Propulsion
    4. References
  6. Chapter 2: Definitions and Fundamentals
    1. 2.1. Definitions
    2. 2.2. Thrust
    3. 2.3. Exhaust Velocity
    4. 2.4. Energy and Efficiencies
    5. 2.5. Multiple Propulsion Systems
    6. 2.6. Typical Performance Values
    7. 2.7. Variable Thrust
    8. Symbols
    9. Problems
    10. References
  7. Chapter 3: Nozzle Theory and Thermodynamic Relations
    1. 3.1. Ideal Rocket Propulsion Systems
    2. 3.2. Summary of Thermodynamic Relations
    3. 3.3. Isentropic Flow through Nozzles
    4. 3.4. Nozzle Configurations
    5. 3.5. Real Nozzles
    6. 3.6. Nozzle Alignment
    7. Symbols
    8. Problems
    9. References
  8. Chapter 4: Flight Performance
    1. 4.1. Gravity-Free Drag-Free Space Flight
    2. 4.2. Forces Acting on a Vehicle in the Atmosphere
    3. 4.3. Basic Relations of Motion
    4. 4.4. Space Flight
    5. 4.5. Space Flight Maneuvers
    6. 4.6. Effect of Propulsion System on Vehicle Performance
    7. 4.7. Flight Vehicles
    8. 4.8. Military Missiles
    9. 4.9. Flight Stability
    10. Symbols
    11. Problems
    12. References
  9. Chapter 5: Chemical Rocket Propellant Performance Analysis
    1. 5.1. Background and Fundamentals
    2. 5.2. Analysis of Chamber or Motor Case Conditions
    3. 5.3. Analysis of Nozzle Expansion Processes
    4. 5.4. Computer-Assisted Analysis
    5. 5.5. Results of Thermochemical Calculations
    6. Symbols
    7. Problems
    8. References
  10. Chapter 6: Liquid Propellant Rocket Engine Fundamentals
    1. 6.1. Types of Propellants
    2. 6.2. Propellant Tanks
    3. 6.3. Propellant Feed Systems
    4. 6.4. Gas Pressure Feed Systems
    5. 6.5. Tank Pressurization
    6. 6.6. Turbopump Feed Systems and Engine Cycles
    7. 6.7. Rocket Engines for Maneuvering, Orbit Adjustments, or Attitude Control
    8. 6.8. Engine Families
    9. 6.9. Valves and Pipelines
    10. 6.10. Engine Support Structure
    11. Symbols
    12. Problems
    13. References
  11. Chapter 7: Liquid Propellants
    1. 7.1. Propellant Properties
    2. 7.2. Liquid Oxidizers
    3. 7.3. Liquid Fuels
    4. 7.4. Liquid Monopropellants
    5. 7.5. Gaseous Propellants
    6. 7.6. Safety and Environmental Concerns
    7. Symbols
    8. Problems
    9. References
  12. Chapter 8: Thrust Chambers
    1. 8.1. Injectors
    2. 8.2. Combustion Chamber and Nozzle
    3. 8.3. Low-Thrust Rocket Thrust Chambers or Thrusters
    4. 8.4. Materials and Fabrication
    5. 8.5. Heat Transfer Analysis
    6. 8.6. Starting and Ignition
    7. 8.7. Useful Life of Thrust Chambers
    8. 8.8. Random Variable Thrust
    9. 8.9. Sample Thrust Chamber Design Analysis
    10. Symbols
    11. Problems
    12. References
  13. Chapter 9: Liquid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability
    1. 9.1. Combustion Process
    2. 9.2. Analysis and Simulation
    3. 9.3. Combustion Instability
    4. Problems
    5. References
  14. Chapter 10: Turbopumps and Their Gas Supplies
    1. 10.1. Introduction
    2. 10.2. Descriptions of Several Turbopumps
    3. 10.3. Selection of Turbopump Configuration
    4. 10.4. Flow, Shaft Speeds, Power, and Pressure Balances
    5. 10.5. Pumps
    6. 10.6. Turbines
    7. 10.7. Approach to Turbopump Preliminary Design
    8. 10.8. Gas Generators and Preburners
    9. Symbols
    10. Problems
    11. References
  15. Chapter 11: Engine Systems, Controls, and Integration
    1. 11.1. Propellant Budget
    2. 11.2. Performance of Complete or Multiple Rocket Propulsion Systems
    3. 11.3. Engine Design
    4. 11.4. Engine Controls
    5. 11.5. Engine System Calibration
    6. 11.6. System Integration and Engine Optimization
    7. Symbols
    8. Problems
    9. References
  16. Chapter 12: Solid Propellant Rocket Motor Fundamentals
    1. 12.1. Basic Relations and Propellant Burning Rate
    2. 12.2. Other Performance Issues
    3. 12.3. Propellant Grain and Grain Configuration
    4. 12.4. Propellant Grain Stress and Strain
    5. 12.5. Attitude Control and Side Maneuvers with Solid Propellant Rocket Motors
    6. Symbols
    7. Problems
    8. References
  17. Chapter 13: Solid Propellants
    1. 13.1. Classification
    2. 13.2. Propellant Characteristics
    3. 13.3. Hazards
    4. 13.4. Propellant Ingredients
    5. 13.5. Other Propellant Categories
    6. 13.6. Liners, Insulators, and Inhibitors
    7. 13.7. Propellant Processing and Manufacture
    8. Problems
    9. References
  18. Chapter 14: Solid Propellant Combustion and Its Stability
    1. 14.1. Physical and Chemical Processes
    2. 14.2. Ignition Process
    3. 14.3. Extinction or Thrust Termination
    4. 14.4. Combustion Instability
    5. Problems
    6. References
  19. Chapter 15: Solid Rocket Motor Components and Design
    1. 15.1. Rocket Motor Case
    2. 15.2. Nozzles
    3. 15.3. Igniter Hardware
    4. 15.4. Rocket Motor Design Approach
    5. Problems
    6. References
  20. Chapter 16: Hybrid Propellants Rocket Propulsion
    1. 16.1. Applications and Propellants
    2. 16.2. Interior Hybrid Motor Ballistics
    3. 16.3. Performance Analysis and Grain Configuration
    4. 16.4. Design Example
    5. 16.5. Combustion Instability
    6. Symbols
    7. Problems
    8. References
  21. Chapter 17: Electric Propulsion
    1. 17.1. Ideal Flight Performance
    2. 17.2. Electrothermal Thrusters
    3. 17.3. Nonthermal Electrical Thrusters
    4. 17.4. Optimum Flight Performance
    5. 17.5. Mission Applications
    6. 17.6. Electric Space-Power Supplies and Power-Conditioning Systems
    7. Symbols
    8. Problems
    9. References
  22. Chapter 18: Thrust Vector Control
    1. 18.1. TVC Mechanisms with a Single Nozzle
    2. 18.2. TVC with Multiple Thrust Chambers or Nozzles
    3. 18.3. Testing
    4. 18.4. Integration with Vehicle
    5. Problems
    6. References
  23. Chapter 19: Selection of Rocket Propulsion Systems
    1. 19.1. Selection Process
    2. 19.2. Criteria for Selection
    3. 19.3. Interfaces
    4. 19.4. Cost Reduction
    5. References
  24. Chapter 20: Rocket Exhaust Plumes
    1. 20.1. Plume Appearance and Flow Behavior
    2. 20.2. Plume Effects
    3. 20.3. Analysis and Mathematical Simulation
    4. Problems
    5. References
  25. Chapter 21: Rocket Testing
    1. 21.1. Types of Tests
    2. 21.2. Test Facilities and Safeguards
    3. 21.3. Instrumentation and Data Management
    4. 21.4. Flight Testing
    5. 21.5. Postaccident Procedures
    6. References
  26. Appendix 1: Conversion Factors and Constants
  27. Appendix 2: Properties of the Earth's Standard Atmosphere
    1. Conversion Factors (arranged alphabetically)
    2. Constants
  28. Appendix 3: Summary of Key equations for Ideal Chemical Rockets
  29. Index
  30. Wiley End User License Agreement

Product information

  • Title: Rocket Propulsion Elements, 9th Edition
  • Author(s): George P. Sutton, Oscar Biblarz
  • Release date: January 2017
  • Publisher(s): Wiley
  • ISBN: 9781118753651