About the Project

Green propellants are a new rocket fuel that are safer and stores more energy than commonly used fuels. To further research on green propellant, testing must be done during active use of the fuel. NASA Marshall Space Flight Center conducts this research using devices called thrust stands that can measure the force and temperature of fired propellant. Current flaws in NASA’s thrust stand are causing imperfect data collection and material wear. Team 517 worked to design a thrust stand that improves upon the flaws mentioned.

After many ideas were considered, a final design was made. The stand uses a force sensor to measure thrust. A setup with weights sets a data zero before fire to improve accuracy. The design also includes a flame bucket to control heat. It has a secure design to lower shaking and limit movement. Pipes are secured to keep the fuel lines stable. Areas are present to connect sensors. These parts help the thrust stand record clear and accurate data.

To make sure the design works, the team ran modal and thermal tests. The modal test checked for shaking areas that could affect force readings. The thermal test studied how heat spread in the stand. The results showed the stand protects the sensor. Testing the thrust data proved it is accurate within 0.01 N. A program was also written to check for errors, which will help improve force data.

The design can be easily taken apart for cleaning. This helps prevent rust and extend the lifespan of the stand. By improving thrust data, this project helps further green propellant testing and supports the future of space travel and rocket research.