Subteam Information
The Airframe and Propulsion team is responsible for designing the rocket frame, building a subscale test rocket, and ensuring the solid-propulsion motor operates safely and successfully.
Airframe and Propulsion Team Lead: Nicci Dame
Overview
The airframe and propulsion subteam designs and manufactures the structural frame of the rocket, including external components such as fins and the nose cone. Through simulations and testing, the team ensures the rocket is aerodynamically efficient, structurally sound, and capable of withstanding strong forces generated during takeoff, flight, and recovery. By integrating airframe and propulsion design, the subteam is essential to the rocket’s safety and success.
Main Goals
During the school year, the Airframe & Propulsion team undertakes two main projects. First, the team designs, assembles, and tests the subscale IREC Rocket frame to evaluate structural and propulsion concepts. Using the data and lessons from the subscale vehicle, the team begins designing and constructing the airframe for the full-scale competition rocket. After thorough testing, the full-scale frame is launched at the annual IREC Competition.
Solid Propulsion
Alongside frame and component design, our Airframe & Propulsion team is developing a solid rocket propulsion program at UND. This effort focuses on researching propellant types, motor casings, igniters, and the safety and regulatory requirements for solid rocket motor design. This program aims to reduce our reliance on commercial motors and position us to compete in the SRAD (Student Researched and Developed) division at the IREC Competition.
Current Projects
During our preliminary testing phase, the airframe team is manufacturing the subscale rocket for launch in the upcoming month. Key tasks for the subscale rocket include cutting fins and bulkheads, winding body tubes, and assembling the rocket. Alongside this, the team is finalizing the simulation of the full-scale rocket and preparing its design for future manufacturing.
The propulsion team is finalizing and documenting research on materials, formulas, and procedures for the lab space and chemical handling. The group is drafting the framework for safety and standard operating procedures in the required space, as well as making necessary modifications to the lab to support the project. As soon as the safety and operating procedures are finalized, the team hopes to start hands-on work within a couple of months.