This was a short duration design/build/test project that I did to evaluate an improved version of my previous Deflagration Thruster project. For this project, I fabricated a new thruster assembly, but schematically, I replaced the burst disk assembly in the Deflagration Thruster with an automatically resetting mechanical popped valve that allowed the thruster to fire in quick succession and even automatically fire at a set frequency. I triggered ignition using a custom high voltage igniter. I fired the thruster dozens of times using a matrix of different fuels. I tested the thruster in a vacuum chamber with different ambient pressure to evaluate nozzle geometry under different conditions.
Michael Fuchs Personal Projects 