← Back to Projects

Nozzle Flow Classification

Projects  ·  April 2026

Nozzle Flow Classification
MATLAB Compressible Aerodynamics Flow Classification Numerical Methods Data Visualization

Objective

Analyze flow in a converging-diverging nozzle across a range of back pressure ratios to identify key nozzle flow characteristics, including exit velocity and the location and angle of shocks where present.

Methods

Developed a MATLAB program to classify nozzle flow behavior based on a specified back pressure ratio, applying compressible flow relations to determine the operating regime and compute exit conditions and normal shock location. Tested the program across seven representative pressure ratios and verified the results against theoretical nozzle behavior.

Results

Case 1. Not Choked Flow
Case 1. Not Choked Flow
Case 2. Choked at the Throat
Case 2. Choked at the Throat
Case 3. Normal Shock in the Diverging Section
Case 3. Normal Shock in the Diverging Section
Case 4. Normal Shock at the Exit Plane
Case 4. Normal Shock at the Exit Plane
Case 5. Overexpanded Flow
Case 5. Overexpanded Flow
Case 6. Perfectly Expanded Flow
Case 6. Perfectly Expanded Flow
Case 7. Underexpanded Flow
Case 7. Underexpanded Flow

Key Takeaways

Successfully built a MATLAB tool that correctly classified all seven nozzle operating regimes and matched theoretical predictions, strengthening my understanding of compressible flow theory and its numerical implementation.