Isro Successfully Tests Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head At Full Thrust
The PHTA encompasses all engine systems except the thrust chamber. This was the ninth hot test in the series and the first time the PHTA was tested at 100 per cent, or 200 tonnes, thrust.
NELLORE: The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Saturday successfully conducted a hot test of the Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at its full thrust level of 200 tonnes at the Isro Propulsion Research Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu.
The PHTA encompasses all engine systems except the thrust chamber. This was the ninth hot test in the series and the first time the PHTA was tested at 100 per cent, or 200 tonnes, thrust. Earlier tests were successfully conducted at 47 per cent (94 tonnes), 60 per cent (120 tonnes) and 88 per cent (175 tonnes) thrust levels.
The test proceeded as predicted, with all engine parameters remaining as expected. The test lasted 35 seconds, including operation of the engine power head at 200 tonnes (100 per cent) thrust for five seconds.
The test also validated the switch-over of propellant supply from a low-pressure start tank to a medium-pressure run tank, enabling long-duration testing of the PHTA in subsequent hot tests.
The Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (SC120), powered by the 2,000 kN-class SE2000 engine, is being developed to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle. Integration of the semi-cryogenic stage with the uprated cryogenic upper stage (C32) will enhance the payload capability of the LVM3.