This example problem demonstrates how to simulate thermal stresses induced during the operation of a rocket nozzle using the Ansys Mechanical Application. To see this example solved with Ansys Mechanical APDL see Rocket Nozzle Extension Simulation: Operation in the Technology Showcase: Example Problems.

For this problem, it is assumed that the rocket has been launched and hot gases are flowing through the nozzle, subjecting the inside and outside of the nozzle body to convection heat loading. The heat loading leads to a significant thermal gradient through the thickness of the body that manifests as high thermal stresses.

Solid thermal and structural elements accurately simulate the multiphysics of the problem. While a fully coupled element could solve the problem, a loose coupling method is used instead. Because the body material could be homogeneous or a layered composite, the simulation requires a solid element type with both homogeneous and layered material capabilities. Ansys Composite PrepPost (ACP) is used to define composite layers that make up the nozzle and ring geometry.

Overview