Three-Dimensional Monte Carlo Simulations of Plume Impingement

Three-dimensional plume impingement flows are simulated using the direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) technique. Two impingement problems are computed. The impact of a jet of nitrogen on an inclined flat plate is considered. A free molecular model of the plume is shown to provide reasonable estimates of impingement quantities. The plume of a hydrazine control thruster firing in a model satellite configuration is simulated. Surface quantities and net impingement effects are calculated. Free molecular analysis provides less accurate modeling of a multispecies flow with boundary-layer effects