The Bloodhound SSC, a marvel of modern engineering, will make its first public run this October at Cornwall Airport in Newquay. This highly anticipated event will see the car driven by Wing Commander Andy Green, who previously set the land speed record of 763.035 miles per hour back in 1997 with the Thrust SSC.
The Engineering Behind Bloodhound SSC
The Bloodhound SSC is not just any car; it is a supersonic vehicle designed to break the current land speed record. The car is powered by an EJ200 jet engine, sourced from a Eurofighter Typhoon, which is capable of producing 20,000 pounds of thrust. This engine alone can propel the car to speeds of up to 200 mph on the 1.7-mile (2.7 km) long runway at Cornwall Airport. However, the ultimate goal is to reach speeds exceeding 1,000 mph, a feat that will require additional rocket propulsion.
The car’s design incorporates advanced aerodynamics, cutting-edge materials, and state-of-the-art data systems. The steering, brakes, and suspension systems have been meticulously engineered to withstand the extreme forces and stresses encountered at supersonic speeds. The data systems will provide real-time telemetry, allowing engineers to monitor the car’s performance and make necessary adjustments.
Runway trials will mark the culmination of a month of tests to prove the car’s steering, brakes, suspension, data systems, and so on, as well as the EJ200 jet engine, sourced from a Eurofighter Typhoon. Thousands of visitors are expected to come and see history being made as BLOODHOUND SSC is driven at speeds of up to 200mph on the 1.7mile (2.7km) long runway.
Before it moves under its own power, BLOODHOUND SSC will first undergo several days of static ‘tie-down’ tests. The jet engine will be run up, with the Car chained to the ground, so that the performance of car’s bespoke air intake, fuel and electrical systems can be checked. All being well, dynamic testing will then follow on.
The Significance of the Bloodhound SSC Project
The Bloodhound SSC project is more than just an attempt to break the land speed record; it is a platform for inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. The project aims to engage young people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects by showcasing the exciting possibilities of engineering and technology. Schools and educational institutions around the world are following the project closely, using it as a case study to teach students about physics, mathematics, and engineering principles.
Moreover, the project has significant implications for the future of transportation and engineering. The technologies and materials developed for the Bloodhound SSC could have applications in various fields, from aerospace to automotive engineering. The data collected during the tests will provide valuable insights into high-speed aerodynamics, materials science, and propulsion systems.
The Bloodhound SSC team has also been working on developing a hybrid rocket system that will be used in conjunction with the jet engine to achieve the target speed of 1,000 mph. This hybrid system combines a solid rocket fuel with a liquid oxidizer, providing a safer and more controllable propulsion method compared to traditional rocket engines.
Thousands of visitors are expected to witness this historic event, marking a significant milestone in the world of motorsport and engineering. The runway trials will be the culmination of a month of rigorous testing, including static ‘tie-down’ tests where the car will be chained to the ground while the jet engine is run up to full power. These tests are crucial for checking the performance of the car’s bespoke air intake, fuel, and electrical systems.
You can find out more information about the Bloodhound SSC over at the official website at the link below.
Source: Bloodhound
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