The Ramgen integrated supersonic component engine (ISCE) is a single stage rotary ramjet engine. By spinning the rotor at supersonic speeds, the ramjet ingets air at the necessary speeds for efficient operation, and tangential exhaust provides the necessary forces to keep the rotor spinning at supersonic speeds, despite the rotor itself not moving at supersonic speeds along its axis of rotation.
A single rotor has a slightly offset series of fixed ramjet structures integrated around the rim of the rotor. Fuel is externally supplied via a spray into the input air stream, and is ignited by the ramjet inlet shock. The Ramgen ISCE feature magnets in the inside edge of the rotor, to be used in a combined magnetic bearing and motor/generator setup. Due to the very high rotation speed, it seems undesirable to use a gearbox transmission to lower the shaft speed, so this engine is aimed for electrical power generation. Estimates on performance make it appear attractive for replacing both diesels and gas turbines for some applications, and may be a viable alternative for hybrid electric aircraft.
Similar research for a similar rotary ramjet, but featuring a different orientation for the fixed ramjet structure, was being conducted elsewhere. The change in orientation may improve manufacturability and circulation within the combustion zone of the ramjet.
http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/76924/1/AIAA-2006-4169-947.pdf
It is possible to separate the components of a rotary ramjet, isolating the inlet shock ramp into a ram compressor rotor, an external combustor, and a supersonic expansion nozzle turbine rotor. Ramgen is currently focusing on using the ram compressor component for CO2 compression as a means for generating early revenue.
A single rotor has a slightly offset series of fixed ramjet structures integrated around the rim of the rotor. Fuel is externally supplied via a spray into the input air stream, and is ignited by the ramjet inlet shock. The Ramgen ISCE feature magnets in the inside edge of the rotor, to be used in a combined magnetic bearing and motor/generator setup. Due to the very high rotation speed, it seems undesirable to use a gearbox transmission to lower the shaft speed, so this engine is aimed for electrical power generation. Estimates on performance make it appear attractive for replacing both diesels and gas turbines for some applications, and may be a viable alternative for hybrid electric aircraft.
Similar research for a similar rotary ramjet, but featuring a different orientation for the fixed ramjet structure, was being conducted elsewhere. The change in orientation may improve manufacturability and circulation within the combustion zone of the ramjet.
http://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/76924/1/AIAA-2006-4169-947.pdf
It is possible to separate the components of a rotary ramjet, isolating the inlet shock ramp into a ram compressor rotor, an external combustor, and a supersonic expansion nozzle turbine rotor. Ramgen is currently focusing on using the ram compressor component for CO2 compression as a means for generating early revenue.
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