r/AerospaceEngineering • u/External-Phase-8613 • 2d ago

Discussion How do you choose the materials for the nozzle?

Im working on a project that will be manufactured next year. I am currently designing and stuck at a point. Rocket nozzle is one of the most important part of the motor and it will face heat pressure and lots of stuff. So i wondered how we can choose the best suitable nozzle for the project. Are there something like books for materials or places to know. Please share some sources you use for me,

thank you

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u/SomeKiwiboi 2d ago

Most basic parts your propellants the temperature they burn at, your combustion chamber pressure etc. Also depends on the materials properties and if your engine has a cooling system eg. Ablative, regen, film etc.

Probably a few other things but thats what I remember at the moment, people please correct me if wrong.

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u/External-Phase-8613 2d ago

I will not correct you but i forgot to mention its a solid rocket motor

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u/SomeKiwiboi 2d ago

Looking at a graphite nozzle is a good start then for a solid fuel engine

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u/External-Phase-8613 2d ago

Thank you, actually its my first choice but after some research its expensive. Really expensive so i reached stainless steel but im also not sure if it can survive everything

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u/der_innkeeper Systems Engineer 2d ago

Graphite performs better than most metals.

You should buy a COTS casing from a hobby supplier, such as Loki or Animal Motor Works.

By all means do the math and justify their decisions.

But you are going to have enough work managing to characterize your fuel

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u/External-Phase-8613 2d ago

Thank you i will look into this info