Chennai, June 27 (IANS). Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has successfully completed a critical hot test of its Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at a thrust level of 175 tonnes. This is a significant achievement in the development of India’s next generation launch vehicle propulsion technology.
This test was recently conducted at ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. This successful test is the eighth in a series of hot tests conducted using the power head test article. This power head test article covers all major systems of the engine except the thrust chamber.
The purpose of the latest test was to study the engine’s performance during the build-up phase after pre-burner ignition and to demonstrate steady-state operation at fairly high thrust levels.
For the first time, the engine powerhead operated at 175 tons of thrust, which is 88 percent of its full rated capacity.
Earlier tests were successfully completed at 94 tons (47 percent thrust) and 120 tons (60 percent thrust). During the latest testing, the engine’s main turbopumps also performed as designed and provided outlet pressures of 400 and 500 bar.
ISRO said the test proceeded as predicted and all engine parameters remained within expected limits during the firing. This successful demonstration has provided the space agency with the necessary confidence to proceed towards testing the engine at its full rated thrust of 200 tonnes, bringing the indigenous semi-cryogenic engine program a significant step closer to completion.
Semi-cryogenic propulsion stage (SC120) powered by 2,000 kilonewton class LE2000 engine is being developed to replace the existing L110 liquid core stage of India’s heaviest operational launch vehicle, Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3).
This upgrade is expected to significantly increase the rocket’s load carrying capacity as well as improve overall performance and operational efficiency. Unlike conventional propulsion systems, semi-cryogenic engines use environmentally friendly and non-toxic propellants—liquid oxygen (LOX) and pure kerosene (known as iserosene).
According to ISRO, integrating the new semi-cryogenic stage with the advanced cryogenic upper stage will significantly enhance the capabilities of LVM3, thereby supporting future high-end satellite launches, deep space exploration missions and India’s growing human spaceflight programme.
–IANS
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