Abstract: A test apparatus and method for a solid propellant, comprising a combustion chamber for the solid propellant, an igniter for igniting propellant in the combustion chamber, and an exhaust housing having a primary exhaust channel extending from the combustion chamber to an exit nozzle. A supplemental exhaust channel is connected to the primary exhaust channel, and a valve controls the size of the supplemental exhaust channel to selectively vary the flow of propellant gases therethrough, thereby to selectively vary the combustion chamber pressure to enable the testing of the burning characteristics of the propellant over a wide pressure range independent of the burning surface area of the propellant. In a further embodiment, an auxiliary exhaust channel closed by a burst disk is connected to the primary exhaust channel.

Abstract: A test apparatus and method for a solid propellant, comprising a combustion chamber for the solid propellant, an igniter for igniting propellant in the combustion chamber, and an exhaust housing having a primary exhaust channel extending from the combustion chamber to an exit nozzle. A supplemental exhaust channel is connected to the primary exhaust channel, and a valve controls the size of the supplemental exhaust channel to selectively vary the flow of propellant gases therethrough, thereby to selectively vary the combustion chamber pressure to enable the testing of the burning characteristics of the propellant over a wide pressure range independent of the burning surface area of the propellant. In a further embodiment, an auxiliary exhaust channel closed by a burst disk is connected to the primary exhaust channel.

Abstract: A gas generator for a missile includes a propellant grain, inhibitor, internal insulation, case forward and aft closures, external insulation, igniters and a gas outlet assembly. The general steps for manufacturing the gas generator are to fabricate the components and assemble the case including the external and internal insulation. The cylindrical inhibitor is then attached to the forward closure to form a cavity into which the propellant is cast forming a sleeve around it when assembled. This propellant grain assembly is then inserted into the case, and the forward closure, igniter and gas outlet assembly are then attached to the case to form a complete gas generator. When the gas generator is ignited, the propellant is consumed by burning the solid material into hot gases which escape through the gas outlet assembly. The propellant contains its own fuel and oxidizers to provide the necessary energy.