Effect of Blunt Truncation in an Aerospike Nozzle

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | 02 | Page :
    By

    Vijai Raaj K R,

  • Yukesh Kanna M,

  • Maheshwaran C,

  • Mohamed Zameer M S,

  1. Student, Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, KCG College Of Technology, Karapakkam, Chennai, India
  2. Student, Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, KCG College Of Technology, Karapakkam, Chennai, India
  3. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, KCG College Of Technology, Karapakkam, Chennai, India
  4. Student, Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, KCG College Of Technology, Karapakkam, Chennai, India

Abstract

Aerospike nozzles are gaining attention as a more advanced alternative to conventional bell nozzles, mainly because they can perform efficiently across a wide range of altitude conditions. Unlike traditional converging–diverging nozzles, aerospike designs naturally adjust to changes in ambient pressure, allowing the exhaust flow to expand more effectively. This results in better thrust performance under varying operating conditions, making them a strong candidate for future aerospace propulsion systems. In this study, the effect of geometry on aerospike nozzle performance is examined by designing three different configurations using the Method of Characteristics (MOC) for a design Mach number of 2.75, with air as the working fluid. The configurations considered include a full-length spike, a 40% truncated spike, and a blunt-tip truncated spike. These variations are chosen to understand how changes in spike length and shape influence flow behaviour, expansion efficiency, and overall performance. To evaluate performance, both Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental testing are carried out. Important flow parameters such as pressure distribution, velocity variation, flow separation, and base drag are analysed. Among these, base drag is particularly important, as it has a significant impact on thrust, especially in truncated designs where wake regions and recirculation zones develop. The results show that the full-length spike provides better expansion and slightly higher efficiency. However, truncated configurations offer practical benefits such as reduced structural complexity, lower weight, and easier manufacturing. Even though there is a small drop in performance, these designs still maintain good efficiency and are suitable for real- world applications. Overall, this study highlights the balance between performance and practicality in aerospike nozzle design and contributes to the ongoing development of efficient altitude-compensating propulsion systems.

Keywords: Aerospike, Spike Configurations, Truncation, Base Drag, Method of Characteristics, Mach Number, Velocity, Blunt, Centreline Pressure, Shadowgraph, Flow separation.

How to cite this article:
Vijai Raaj K R, Yukesh Kanna M, Maheshwaran C, Mohamed Zameer M S. Effect of Blunt Truncation in an Aerospike Nozzle. Journal of Aerospace Engineering & Technology. 2026; 16(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
Vijai Raaj K R, Yukesh Kanna M, Maheshwaran C, Mohamed Zameer M S. Effect of Blunt Truncation in an Aerospike Nozzle. Journal of Aerospace Engineering & Technology. 2026; 16(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/joaet/article=2026/view=249912


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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 16
02
Received 27/05/2026
Accepted 13/07/2026
Published 16/07/2026
Publication Time 50 Days
13

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