Numerical simulations of air inclusions using ROBOOST simulation tool

This work describes the application of original Computer Graphics methods to examine the effect of air inclusions within solid rocket motor thrust chamber. The adoptance of a dynamic 3D triangular mesh with a self-intersections removal algorithm, as the core of the burning surface regression module, allows to reach the above-mentioned target. Many phenomena not measurable in an analytical closed form, like different-shaped voids within the grain, can be investigated. Indeed, both local heterogeneities and surface imperfections could generate unexpected variations in combustion chamber pressure pattern and early thermal protections exposure. The above-mentioned techniques are developed and tested on ROBOOST (Rocket BOOst Simulation Tool) which is a ballistic simulator developed at the Laboratory of Propulsion and Mechanics of the University of Bologna in collaboration with AVIO S.p.a. Computer Graphics methods to improve mesh handling are explained in detail. Simulations results are carried out and discussed.