The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has has tested a semi-cryogenic pre-burner engine
The successful ignition test at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, was part of efforts to boost the payload capacity of the Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3) rocket.
Designed to provide heavy-lift capability to ISRO's upcoming launch vehicles, including the Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV), the 2,000 kN thrust semi-cryogenic engine utilizes a propellant combination of liquid oxygen (LOX) and refined kerosene (IsroSENE).
The ignition was achieved using a start fuel ampule, which combines Triethyle Alumnide and Triethyle Boron, a groundbreaking ignition system developed by Isro's Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
It was the first time this technology has been employed in ISRO's semi-cryogenic engine development.
"The ignition process is one of the most critical parts in the development of liquid rocket engine systems. With the successful ignition of the semi-cryo pre burner, a major milestone in the semi-cryo engine development has been achieved," ISRO said in a statement.
The successful pre-burner ignition test has cleared the path for the next phase of development, which will involve testing the engine powerhead and the fully integrated engine.
"The development of a semi-cryo stage with 120 tons of propellant loading is also under progress. The successful ignition of a semi-cryo preburner is a major accomplishment of ISRO in the development of semi-cryogenic propulsion systems," ISRO said.