Statement of Purpose – M.
Tech (Research) in Aerospace Propulsion at IIT
Kanpur
The entire procedure of rocket launch and everything relating to propulsion systems has
always fascinated me. It has given me a great impetus, strongly touching my academic
and research pursuits. Propellant propulsion and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
have heightened indications of the path on which training has matured for me, with the
right knowledge and skills to effect valuable contributions. The M.Tech (Research) in
Aerospace Propulsion at IIT Kanpur presents me with a fascinating opportunity for skill
development and participation in such promising research as related to CFD analysis of
rocket engine performance, combustion of propellant, and nozzle optimization research.
Academic Background and Research Interests
Pursuing B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering at VNIT Nagpur has given me an extensive
understanding of the subject of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and propulsion
system. Beyond the coursework, I have learned a lot about aerospace
propulsion-incorporated NPTEL course: Rocket Propulsion by Prof. K. Ramamurthi
(IIT Madras), which I believe has created a very strong theoretical understanding of
working principles of rocket engine, propellant selection and nozzle design.
My main area of research focuses on computational modeling of both combustion of
propellants and the dynamics of flow through nozzles with a view to improving thrust
efficiency and thermal performance. This work also included CFD-based studies on the
interaction of solid, liquid and hybrid propellant systems concerned with the effect of
these on efficiency through investigation of various propellant bench set-ups. In
addition, my research is exploring the improvement of nozzle design, determining the
relationship between flow rate, pressure and heat transfer characteristics in contour and
bell nozzles in their operation.
Computational and Experimental Experience
Several CFD-based projects exploring fluid flow, heat transfer, and propulsion analysis
and providing practical applications to the theoretical knowledge gained have been
undertaken:
(1)2D Combustion Analysis of a De-Laval Nozzle with Strut Positioning
configurations
This study is carried out under the supervision of Dr. Sukanta Roga (at VNIT Nagpur)
during the course of 2D combustion analysis on a De-Laval nozzle where the different
strut positions are taken into account for combustion efficiency, side thrust generation,
and overall performance. A combination of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFDs) was
utilized to assess variations in thrust distribution, pressure losses, and combustion
stability for the strut configurations. The analysis sheds light on the strut placement
optimization that will enhance directional control and efficiency-important in thrust
vectoring and maneuverable propulsion system applications.
(2)Aerodynamic Analysis of an F1 Car Front Wing
Under the guidance of Prof. D.B. Zodpe, my final year B.Tech project was focused on
the aerodynamic analysis of an F1 car front wing, comparing downforce generation
across different multi-flap configurations. Using CFD simulations, I studied the effects of
flap angles and positioning on lift-to-drag ratios to find the best setup for generating
maximum downforce with less drag penalty. Besides, a 1:6 scale model was fabricated
for wind tunnel testing to verify computational results and further improve aerodynamic
efficiency.
Thus, these projects gave me hands-on experience in ANSYS Fluent, MATLAB,
OpenFOAM, and essentially any computational tool that could cement my ability to
make worthwhile contributions toward research in propulsion.
Strong Background in Physics and Problem-Solving
So, I have scored 100 percentile score in the JEE Mains (Physics) and have achieved a
top 2% rank in JEE Advanced (2021); this extremely rigorous understanding of basic
physics concepts forms the backbone of my analytical structure to critically analyze
propulsion problems and, from there, approach research problems in a physics-infused
manner.
Proposed Research Contribution at IIT Kanpur
I would be keen on studying CFD-based modeling of rocket propulsion systems at IIT
Kanpur with the following areas of emphasis:
1)Combustion and Propellant Flow Modeling-Investigating turbulent combustion models
for the analysis of flame stability, heat transfer, and efficiency of different propellants.
2)Advanced Nozzle Flow Analysis-Increasing nozzle expansion efficiency through
shock-wave control methods and thrust optimization for various altitude scenarios.
3)Hybrid and Green Propulsion Technologies-Study of very efficient liquid propellant
systems and environmentally friendly fuels.
I have a keen interest in doing research under the supervision of eminent faculty
members in the Aerospace Engineering Department at IIT Kanpur, whose works relate
to my aspirations in propulsion system optimization and CFD combustion modeling.
Conclusion
The Propulsion curriculum in IIT Kanpur, with all its modern propulsion research
facilities, along with ISRO and DRDO collaborations, forms an ideal environment for my
research. If my academic background, along with practical CFD skills and passion for
propulsion, is anything to go by, I would really have a good M.Tech (Research) program
in Aerospace Propulsion. I would add my value to most breakthroughs being
researched at IIT Kanpur and sculpt the next step in making the future of rocket
propulsion technology.
Thank you for considering my application.
