Numerical simulations on a rocket-based combined cycle engine in ejector mode under sea-level static conditions

Numerical simulations have been done on a strut-based rocket-based combined cycle (RBCC) engine operated in the ejector mode under sea-level static conditions, which composed of a dual-mode ramjet combustor matched with an appropriate inlet and exhaust system. Then the flow field characteristics were analyzed in detail. Consequently, the computational grid resolution and boundary condition settings has a vital effect on the rationality and reliability of the numerical results. Moreover, the aerodynamic demonstration seem particular under the take-off operation. Flow separations appear on the leeward sides near the inlet cowl, meanwhile, the aerodynamic configuration of the inlet is no longer consistent with its physical one. Accordingly, the air capture and its flow path are changed, which effect the engine performance finally. Further, the adoption of integration CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamic) methods is certified to be significant and necessary during investigations of the ejector mode of RBCC engines.