Direction Control of Rotating Detonation Waves with Helical Combustion Chambers

This paper explores the innovative direction control of rotating detonation waves in rotating detonation engines (RDEs) by adjusting the ignition location and employing helical combustors with a sinusoidal cross section. In our experimental setup, we conducted 25 combustion tests using two distinct combustor geometries, each featuring different helical profile directions. The following conclusion drawn from the results: when the ignition was positioned 30.6–46.0 mm from the inlet, the detonation wave direction was invariably influenced by the helical direction. This correlation was statistically significant, with an occurrence probability (assuming a random direction probability of 0.5) being [Formula: see text], far exceeding the 0.05 significance level. Furthermore, the helical combustors generated a measurable torque due to the pressure differentials created by shock waves within the combustor. This torque, recorded between [Formula: see text] at a mass flow rate of 28.5–29.0 g/s, indicates the potential of power extraction from the combustor. Notably, the torque direction was also controllable via the helical direction. This study presents a significant advancement in propulsion technology, demonstrating a novel method to control detonation wave direction and torque generation in RDEs through helical combustor design, paving the way for more efficient and controllable propulsion systems.