Scramjet Propulsion

Supersonic combustion ramjet (SCRJ) engine research and development, begun some 40 years ago, is the key to airbreathing hypersonic flight. Many unexpected complexities of SCRJ engine combustion and combustor-inlet interaction have been continuing challenges. However, valuable progress has been made in several aspects. In the next few years, it would appear that significant flight testing will take place in several countries and this should lead to further understanding of SCRJ processes in engine design for cruise and accelerator vehicle applications.

This volume—the third and final in a miniseries on hypersonic propulsion along with High-Speed Flight Propulsion Systems, Volume 137, and Developments in High-Speed-Vehicle Propulsion Systems, Volume 165—presents a comprehensive and detailed exposition of the gradual maturing of scramjet technologies. Developments in several parts of the world are described by those intimately involved in the mainstream of SCRJ activities. It is clear that fresh opportunities exist to improve the robustness of high-speed-flight propulsion. This book will be valuable to the newest as well as the most seasoned specialist.