16
$\begingroup$

The (single) Merlin 1D vacuum engine's exhaust plume has a symmetric shape, comprising of six distinct "inner" plumes. Why does it have this shape?

Is it due to the shape/configuration of fuel injectors, or does the turbopump exhaust shape the plume somehow? Or something else entirely?

As seen during the recent SAOCOM 1a launch:

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
2
  • 3
    $\begingroup$ I believe it’s due to the configuration of the pintle injectors, but it’s hard to be sure since the schematics aren’t public $\endgroup$
    – Jack
    Commented Oct 9, 2018 at 9:21
  • 5
    $\begingroup$ Turns out that Scott Manley has a video on the SAOCOM launch and he thinks this is due to the slit-type pintle injectors producing uneven pressure areas. Also, from his video it seems the "inner plumes" aren't actually symmetric. $\endgroup$
    – czert
    Commented Oct 9, 2018 at 10:18

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
$\begingroup$

Scott Manley did a video on this from SAOCOM.

It basically seems to be some characteristic of the pintle injectors inside the engine, which leads to the unusual shape seen in the rocket plume. See his video for more details.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
0

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.