Question

Thermodynamic cycles can be broadly categorized in Power and Refrigeration cycles. Power cycles are designed to produce net positive work output, and the devices or systems to run for the power cycles are simply called engines. On the other hand, refrigeration cycles are designed to provide cooling or heating. There are Carnot cycle, Otto cycle, diesel cycle, Sterling/Ericsson cycle, and Brayton cycle etc.

The last one is particular important for modern gas-turbine technology. Do your own research and explain in your own words, what is Brayton cycle and how could it apply for propulsion? Use SpaceX Merlin engine as an example.

Answer 1

What is Brayton cycle and how could it apply for propulsion? Use SpaceX Merlin engine as an example.

The Brayton cycle is a thermodynamic cycle named after George Brayton that describes the workings of a constant-pressure heat engine.

This cycle is applied for propulsion by utilising the principle of the Brayton cycle. According to this principle, air is compressed in the turbine compressor. The air is then mixed with fuel, and burned under constant pressure conditions in the combustor. The resulting hot gas is allowed to expand through a turbine to perform work. And this work provides power to the Jet engine for propulsion.

SpaceX Merlin engine also follow the Brayton cycle. Merlin engine uses RP-1 and liquid oxygen as rocket propellants in a gas-generator Brayton power cycle. The fuel and liquid oygen are mixed and burned under constant pressure conditions in the combustor. The resulting high pressure hot gas is allowed to expand through a turbine to perform work & thus propulsion.

Kindly do like if It Helped!

Thank you!!!