SOURCE: AFI
India’s quest for self-reliance in advanced fighter jet technology takes a crucial step forward with a new project focused on afterburners. This project, funded by the Aeronautical Research and Development Board (ARDB), delves into the complexities of afterburner operation, a critical component for the indigenously developed Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
An afterburner is essentially a device that injects extra fuel into the hot exhaust of a jet engine, allowing for a significant increase in thrust. This translates to enhanced power and maneuverability for fighter jets, particularly during high-speed maneuvers and combat situations. The successful operation of the afterburner is vital for the Indian Air Force and Navy, as it directly impacts the performance of their aircraft.
The ARDB-funded project will focus on building a test rig that precisely replicates the actual operating conditions experienced by an afterburner within a jet engine. This allows researchers to study the afterburner’s behavior in a controlled environment, mimicking real-world stresses and demands.
The project will employ a cutting-edge technique known as high-speed laser-based optical diagnostics. This advanced technology will enable researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between fuel spray patterns, flame characteristics, and airflow within the afterburner.
The data collected through this project will be invaluable for creating a comprehensive “stability map” of the afterburner. This map will essentially define the operational boundaries under which the afterburner functions optimally, preventing issues like flame blowout. Additionally, the project will generate a vast experimental database, serving as a crucial resource for developing future jet engine afterburners for larger aircraft configurations.
The knowledge gleaned from this project will be instrumental in the successful development of the AMCA’s jet engine afterburner. This, in turn, contributes to the overall performance and capabilities of India’s next-generation fighter jet. Furthermore, the project’s findings have the potential to pave the way for advancements in afterburner technology for a wider range of future Indian aircraft.