TSIT ■ Bengaluru
The CE20 cryogenic engine indigenously developed for LVM3 has been subjected to a successful hot test at an uprated thrust level of 21.8 tonnes for the first time on Wednesday, according to the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro).
“This will enhance the LVM3 payload capability up to 450 kg with additional propellant loading,” it said in a statement. The major modification carried out on this test article compared to previous engines was the introduction of a Thrust Control Valve (TCV) for thrust control, Isro said.
In addition to this 3D-printed LOX and LH2 turbine, exhaust casings were inducted into the engine for the first time, it said. During this test the engine operated with Rs20 t thrust level for the first 40s, then the thrust level was increased to 21.8t by moving the thrust control valve, Isro said. During the test, engine and facility performance was normal and the required parameters were achieved.
In addition, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), the lead Centre of Isro for the development of launch vehicles, facilitated the hot testing of a rocket engine developed by an Indian space startup.
VSSC successfully conducted the 15 s hot test of Agnilet Engine for Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited on November 4 at its Vertical Test Facility at Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) in Thiruvananthapuram, Isro said. The test was carried out as part of an MoU signed between Isro and Agnikul Cosmos to provide opportunity for Indian space startups to use facilities of Isro through IN-SPACe.
