Blog #1 (Ben) -- Pre-Project -- May 8th, 2023

   Nikhil Subhas and I will be attempting to build a functioning compressor, turbine, and shell of a miniature turbojet engine. We were inspired by similar projects that people have completed on YouTube and college projects like the Miniature Turbojet Engine project from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. To give some context for our project, a turbojet engine generally works by compressing air, mixing it with fuel, and combusting the mixture, which then produces thrust and turns a turbine that brings in more air. We will not be able to make the combustor or put fuel in our project as it was deemed unsafe; however, we will be making the compressor, turbine, and shell of the engine. Our plan is to purchase an automotive turbocharger to act as the compressor while we prototype and manufacture the turbine and shell of the engine. If we get that to function properly, we will build a compressor as well. Our goal is to achieve a 1:4 pressure ratio with the compressor, which we will measure through pressure gauges. The materials that we will be using are mainly 3D printed plastic for the turbine and compressor and steel for the housing. 

    My personal goals for the project are to improve my design, prototyping, manufacturing, and problem solving skills. I often do not have enough time to pursue these kinds of projects and want to take full advantage of this opportunity so that I can do similar projects in the future. I have already seen points of improvement as Nikhil and I have learned to weld and use other tools like the waterjet at Case Western Reserve University's Think[box], which is an incredible free resource for anyone trying to build something. I hope to become more efficient in the design, prototyping, and manufacturing process as this project will require us to be productive with our time to achieve our goals. For example, a few weeks ago, it took me five hours to weld a phone stand out of metal rods; however, for this project, we will need to be significantly more efficient. Hopefully we accomplish everything that we are setting out to do, but I know that we will learn a lot of new skills and ideas on the way no matter what. 

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