Gas flow simulation in a micro nozzle

Abstract

Purpose

To study the flow character in a micro nozzle.

Design/methodology/approach

The flow in the micro nozzle is simulated using the Direct Simulation Monte‐Carlo (DSMC) method. Considering characteristics of high‐temperature gas flow, the Cercignani‐Lampis‐Lord (CLL) gas‐surface interaction model is adopted in the simulation of high‐temperature gas flow in the Laval nozzle at different inlet pressures and temperatures.

Findings

The results showed that as the temperatures of inlet flow increased, the thrust efficiency will increased accordingly, however, the influence of inlet pressure variety on the nozzle performance is insignificant.

Originality/value

A useful reference to the design and performance improvement of micro thruster and MEMS power system.

Citation

Yang, Z. and Hai Wei, Y. (2006), "Gas flow simulation in a micro nozzle", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 78 No. 5, pp. 387-390. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660610685549