Thermal analysis of solid rocket motor's heat insulation materials

A solid rocket motor is a vessel in which reactions occur at temperatures of several thousand degrees and pressures sometimes exceeding 100 atmospheres. A heat insulator must be used because few motor construction materials can withstand these extreme conditions. The main objective of the thermal insulation design is the determination of the insulation thickness and location within the motor chamber. Conditions affecting the insulation are discussed along with the determination of the various parameters which have to be taken into account in the design of the insulation. Attention is also given to aspects of modeling and a heat conduction analysis. It is concluded that the performance of solid rocket motor heat insulation can be improved by controlling the properties of the char which is produced under high temperature and pressure.