Ramgen Power Systems-Supersonic Component Technology for Military Engine Applications

Abstract : Ramgen Power Systems, Inc. (RPS) is currently developing two high efficiency gas turbine engine concepts to create two entirely new gas turbine engines. The superior efficiency results from: (1) high pressure shock wave compression and supersonic expansion phenomena that produce high component efficiencies and (2) a unique configuration that minimizes flow stream turning losses throughout the engine. The RPS engine concept can be configured as a high-pressure ratio simple-cycle design for propulsion applications or as a low-pressure ratio recuperated engine. The RPS engine can be applied to a mobile power plant (such as military propulsion system for future combat systems), to a stationary power generator (such as a standalone power-only mode device), or to a fuel cell in a hybrid configuration. This paper presents the development of the RPS gas turbine technology and potential applications to the two specific engine cycle configurations, i.e., an indirect fuel cell / RPS turbine hybrid-cycle, and a simple-cycle turbine. The system promises a Specific Fuel Consumption (SFC) equal to or better than the SFC of current reciprocating diesel engines in this size range, but with a 10:1 weight reduction and a 4:1 improvement in time between overall maintenance. This represents a potential 2:1 increase in fuel efficiency at full power over existing gas turbines in this size range.