Rocket Engineering Practicum - Shuttle Valve Project
Jacob Norris
OVERVIEW
Designed a shuttle valve to meet strict performance requirements: neutral pressure of 700 psia, shuttle pressure of 900 ± 100 psia, and a target CdA range of 1×10⁻³ – 3×10⁻² in² using nitrogen as the working fluid. The objective was to create a functional, manufacturable valve concept through both analytical and computational methods.
HighlightS
- Performed hand calculations to size orifices and determine the correct CdA for each valve position.
- Modeled system pressures, poppet displacement, and mass flow rates in Python to verify shuttle behavior and flow characteristics.
- Selected O-rings and compression springs using performance data and manufacturer catalogs to satisfy sealing and cracking pressure requirements.
- Produced a detailed engineering drawing and bill of materials for a 316 SS design suitable for high-pressure applications.
SKILLS
Fluid dynamicsMechanical designComponent selectionCAD
ADDITIONAL CONTENTS
Jacob Norris
Aerospace Engineering Student & Test Engineer
I am a 4th year aerospace engineering student at UT Austin passionate about test engineering and ground system design. My experience spans internships at NASA and SpaceX, where I contributed to propulsion test operations, hardware certification, and system troubleshooting. In student rocketry, I have led the design and operation of fluid panels, test stands, and data acquisition systems, combining CAD expertise with hands-on integration. I am seeking opportunities to apply this foundation to propulsion test and GSE engineering roles.
I am a 4th year aerospace engineering student at UT Austin passionate about test engineering and ground system design. My experience spans internships at NASA and SpaceX, where I contributed to propulsion test operations, hardware certification, and system troubleshooting. In student rocketry, I have led the design and operation of fluid panels, test stands, and data acquisition systems, combining CAD expertise with hands-on integration. I am seeking opportunities to apply this foundation to propulsion test and GSE engineering roles.