Measuring Model Rocket Engine Thrust Curves

• Autores: Kim Penn, William Slaton
• Localización: The Physics Teacher, ISSN 0031-921X, Vol. 48, Nº. 9, 2010, págs. 591-593
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • This paper describes a method and setup to quickly and easily measure a model rocket engines thrust curve using a computer data logger and force probe. Horst1describes using Verniers LabPro2and force probe to measure the rocket engines thrust curve; however, the method of attaching the rocket to the force probe is not discussed. We show how a simple engine holder can be constructed and used with Verniers LabPro and force probe to record data that students can use to compare to sample data from the rocket manufacturer or the National Association of Rocketrys3engine certification sheets, calculate total impulse, and make predictions for model rocket launches. PASCO markets a rocket engine test bracket4that mounts to its PASPORT force sensor for similar measurements. The engine holder described here is very economical, and all the parts can be obtained from a local hardware store or home center.