Advanced Space Propulsion CISAS Propulsion Group

Thesis Description: A tank shape is chosen and analyzed using computational fluid dynamics. Its natural frequency is found through the standard signal analysis technique. 

In parallel, a theoretical simplified lumped parameters model is created and calibrated via CFD.

Finally, different loads are applied using CFD analysis and the results for various fill levels are compared with the output of the theoretical model.

 

Competences acquired: Use of a CFD tool for the simulation of sloshing problems Use of Matlab to create scripts for data analysis, 

Vibration-Signals analysis, for the simplified description of the sloshing problem

 

Main activities to be undertaken: 1) CFD use for the calibration of a simplified mass-spring model representing the sloshing behavior of the system, 2) Basic programming for the implementation of the mass-spring model, 3) Data analysis for the comparison of CFD and theoretical model results applied to a specific test case, 4) Conclusions and extension of the reulsts to other tank fill ratios

 

Expected Duration:6 months, including a CFD tool course if necessary, excluding any eventual final publications

 

Expected Outcome: 1) definition of a reliable model for a specific tank shape, for both rotational and translational loads, 2) definition of the limits of the CFD procedure for theoretical model calibration, 3) results can be used for publication (this eventual outcome is not included into the 6 months foreseen for the thesis work)