Multi-objective optimization of the aerodynamic performance of butterfly-shaped film cooling holes in rocket thrust chamber

Abstract This study uses Multi-Island Genetic Algorithm (MIGA) and three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to optimize butterfly-shaped film cooling holes in the upper-stage rocket engine thrust chamber. The goal is to meet thermal protection and thrust requirements at high altitudes without re-ignition. To facilitate an all-encompassing worldwide search, the holes in the optimized design remain at set dimensions. Film continuity and stability at the nozzle outlet are greatly impacted by the hole structure. Inlet and divergence angles have little effect on thrust, according to regression research, but lip height (de) and outlet width (β) have a big impact on cold gas ejection, which affects cooling and thrust. Optimized results lead to a 20.49 K decrease in the monitoring section’s average wall temperature and a 52.8 N boost in thrust by reducing interference between supersonic airflow and extending film stability.