New Rocket-Based Combined Cycle for Reusable Launch Vehicles

摘要

MSE Technology Applications, Inc., in cooperation with United Technologies Research Center and HyperTech Concepts Company, proposes to develop combined propulsion technology for a small reusable launch vehicle (RLV) known as the KLIN Cycle, which consists of a thermally integrated deeply cooled turbojet and a liquid rocket engine. The objective of this concept is to achieve a high pressure ratio in a simple, lightweight turbojet engine. The proven result is an exceptional engine thrust to weight ratio, as well as improved lsp and mass fraction of the launcher. For a heavy launcher, the KLIN Cycle promises RLV gross takeoff weight reduction by a factor of two with additional prospects of lower dry weight. When based on the RL10 engine family, the KLIN Cycle makes a small single stage to orbit and two stage to orbit RLV feasible and very economically attractive. The benefit of the KLIN Cycle to the U.S. Air Force is a low life cycle cost combined propulsion system for a space plane that can double existing rocket propulsion capabilities by the year 2010. The details of this proposed technology are presented in the report.