PPRuNe Forums - Speed of Sound

Quote:

Whilst they are looking to go above MACH 1, none of them seem to be aiming for the dizzy heights of MACH 2 achieved by concorde.

In relation to this, I've always wondered, if an airframe is developed to get beyond MACH1, is it merely down to available thrust as to whether more than twice the speed of sound can be reached. Or is it the case that realistically, it is unlikely that another passenger aircraft will be developed that can equal or beat the speeds set by concorde?

Well, you have Lapcat A2, at Mach 5.

The Mach 2,04 Concorde, and Tu-144, have certain problems. For example, Concorde variable intake ramps were not used and immobile up to Mach 1,7. Also, as far as supersonic heating went, the Pepsi livery was not allowed above Mach 1,7.

So, if you restrict your speeds to Mach 1,5...1,7, you will save trouble with airflow and supersonic heating and have wider range of materials.

On the other hand, Valkyrie demonstrated flight at Mach 3,08. The engine inlets worked, and cockpit though small enabled shirtsleeve environment. Which means that the materials and engines for Boeing 2707 were possible.