Maybe this is old news to most of you, and it surely is to some. But it's new to me.
Ever wonder why most BP engines' thrust curves look the way they do? With that big initial spike, then fairly constant thrust until burn-out. Sure, it's really handy for getting good rod exit speed, but how does it happen?
Well, while looking for something else, I stumbled on this NASA page with an animation and explanation that reveal all. And it's really simple. Almost unavoidable, actually.
Ever wonder why most BP engines' thrust curves look the way they do? With that big initial spike, then fairly constant thrust until burn-out. Sure, it's really handy for getting good rod exit speed, but how does it happen?
Well, while looking for something else, I stumbled on this NASA page with an animation and explanation that reveal all. And it's really simple. Almost unavoidable, actually.