RDE

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Shock Wave
The ignition source creates a high-pressure shock wave that compresses the fuel/oxidizer mixture ahead of it.
Chemical Reaction
The compressed mixture undergoes a rapid exothermic reaction, releasing energy almost instantaneously.
Propagation Mechanics
The high-pressure region created by the detonation wave compresses the incoming mixture, maintaining the conditions needed for continuous detonation.
Supersonic Speed
The detonation wave moves at supersonic speeds, maintaining the high pressure and high temperature conditions needed to sustain itself.
Thermodynamic Cycle
Unlike conventional engines, RDEs operate on a different thermodynamic cycle where the detonation wave itself compresses the incoming reactants.
Wave Initiation and Stability
Proper injector design and fuel/oxidizer flow rates are critical for sustaining a stable rotating detonation wave.
Rotational Mechanism for RDE With Annular Combustion Chamber
The combustion chamber is ring shaped, providing a pathway for the detonation wave to travel continuously.
Positioning
Injectors are strategically placed to introduce fresh fuel and oxidizer into the path of the rotating detonation wave.
Synchronization
The injectors must deliver fuel and oxidizer at the right time to maintain the continuous propagation of the wave.
Initiation
An ignition source provides the initial energy to start the detonation.
Pre-detonator
In some designs, a pre-detonator helps create a strong initial shock wave.
Valve System
Precisely controls the timing and amount of fuel and oxidizer entering the injectors. Must have a fast response time to match the high frequency operation of the engine.