Aryan Soma

Designing Effective Thermal Protection Systems for Hypersonic Vehicles

Started Sept. 2, 2023

Abstract or project description

Hypersonic travel has the potential to revolutionize aviation as it can drastically reduce travel time for long distances, making global and interstellar travel more efficient. When reaching hypersonic speeds without proper thermal protection systems(TPS), the aircraft’s interior could reach 3000 to 5000 degrees fahrenheit, frying both any electrical systems and passengers on board. This paper will review important design elements such as materials, heat management systems, and drag profile which will help manage the extreme heat within hypersonic vehicles. Materials are vital in reducing weight, increasing fuel efficiency, and resisting external heat, all of which are factors in improving TPS. Heat management systems are also important as aircrafts need a way to cool down the internal heat the engines produce. Making an aircraft design with as little drag as possible is essential for TPS as it reduces heat caused by friction. In this paper, we will identify challenges and future steps for TPS designs.