Acceleration effects on the performance of solid-propellant rocket motors

Some acceleration effects on rocket performance have been well publicized. The dynamic process, characterized by marked increases in 'localized' burning rate, produces excessive case heating, slag retention, pressure buildup, and/or internal flow alterations. Data are presented illustrating drastic effects at low accelerations for sustainer type propellants and its relevance to several recent failures. Normalized orientation dependence of rate augmentation appears coupled to acceleration level and base burning rate. Effects appear influenced by propellant composition. Predictions using subscale motor data show good agreement with observed performance for ground spin and flight tests. Subscale test methods and results are also discussed.