Laasya Gangavarapu

Propulsion Section Member

E-Pump: Conducted extensive research on electrically powered centrifugal pump for a liquid bi-propellant engine

• Developed MATLAB code to compute mass flow rate, power, and sizing calculations for preliminary design
• Used SolidWorks to create a preliminary design for a logarithmic spiral volute
• Created a Fusion360 code and collaborated with members of the manufacturing team to get the part machined
• Tested pump with water on a flow testing stand

Venturi Flow Meter:

• Calculated mass flow rate and inlet to throat area ratio based on pressure designations from the engine system
• Utilized SolidWorks to design a flow meter that adheres to parameters based upon existing inventory within the lab
• Utilized 3D printing techniques to produce an accurate prototype to make sure design was usable before using a CNC lathe to machine the part

Manufacturing Team Member:

• Used CNC lathe to machine nose cone tip for x^1/2 power nose cone
• Used water jet to cutout holes for a pressure gauge mounting plate for a fluid tests stand

Fluids Team Member:

• Designed pressure gauge mounting plates including pre-existing restrictions for placement of holes
• Designed and machined an actuator-valve linkage for a remote liquid oxygen fueling system.
• Designed and 3D printed an actuator cap to put on a pneumatic actuator for a engine flow test stand.

• Effectively taught over 70 elementary through college age students math coursework from both their own school curriculums and personalized workbooks developed using the program's curriculum
• Developed interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with corporate representatives and clients
• Assisted in the processing of payments and other administrative tasks
• Quickly adapted methods of teaching and student work plans to fit the needs of the individual student when performance did not fit what was determined by a comprehensive exam