Engineers are using a test rig equipped with lasers and high-speed cameras as part of the development program for the Boom Supersonic’s Symphony engine.
Symphony is a medium bypass turbofan engine optimized for supersonic flight and designed specifically for Boom’s Overture airliner. The engine’s prototype core, called Sprint measures 12ft (3.6m) long and 4ft (1.2m) in diameter and comprises the high-pressure spool, which includes the compressor, combustor, and turbine components.
Combustion testing reveals the flames that occur inside the engine. During Boom’s testing, the lasers help to visualize the fuel spray from the injector nozzle. A complex optical setup creates the light sheet in the rig and high-speed cameras capture the fuel droplet scattering.
The innovative approach to the combustion testing is helping analyze fuel spray uniformity for engine design says Boom Supersonic.
Uniform fuel spray is critical for stable combustion and consistent turbine temperatures and will be key to the durability and performance of Symphony.
