ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has achieved yet another milestone in its space journey with the successful hot test of the semi-cryogenic SE2000 engine. This test marks a crucial step in enhancing future heavy-lift space missions and reaffirms India’s position as a global leader in space technology.
The hot test, conducted at ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, was completed on 25th August, 2021. The Power Head Test Article (PHTA), a full-scale prototype of the engine, was used to validate key engine subsystems in a simulated environment. These included the gas generator, turbo pumps, and pre-burner, which play a pivotal role in the functioning of the engine.
The SE2000 engine, developed by the LPSC, is a new generation propulsion system using liquid oxygen and kerosene as its propellants. This is a significant improvement over the earlier liquid hydrogen and oxygen engines used by ISRO, as the kerosene-based engine offers better efficiency and stability. It also reduces the overall cost of the mission, making it a more economical option.
The hot test was conducted in two phases, with the first phase focusing on testing the gas generator and the second phase on the entire powerhead assembly. The gas generator, which acts as the source of energy for the engine, showed remarkable performance during the test, achieving a pressure of 100 bar and temperatures of up to 5000 degrees Celsius. This is a vital step in ensuring the successful functioning of the engine during actual missions, as it operates at extreme temperatures and pressures.
The turbo pumps, responsible for pumping the liquid oxygen and kerosene to the combustion chamber, also performed exceptionally well during the test. They achieved a rotational speed of 60,000 revolutions per minute, demonstrating their capability to provide the required thrust for a heavy-lift mission. The pre-burner, which acts as a heater for the engine, also functioned smoothly, validating its critical role in maintaining the stable operation of the engine.
The successful hot test of the SE2000 engine is a significant achievement for ISRO, which has been working on its development for the past decade. The semi-cryogenic engine is part of ISRO’s ongoing efforts to meet the growing demand for heavier satellite launches and to reduce its dependence on foreign launch services. With the capability to carry payloads of up to 6-10 tonnes, the SE2000 engine will enable India to undertake more ambitious and complex space missions in the future.
The hot test of the SE2000 engine is a perfect example of ISRO’s indigenous capabilities and technological prowess. The organization has a history of developing innovative and cost-effective solutions for space exploration, and the successful hot test is another feather in its cap. It showcases India’s self-reliance in the field of space technology and is a fitting tribute to our scientists’ hard work and dedication.
The development of the semi-cryogenic engine is also aligned with the Government of India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, which emphasizes the need for indigenous research and development in critical areas such as space technology. The SE2000 engine is a significant step in reducing our dependency on other countries for space launches, making India self-sufficient in this crucial field.
ISRO, under the able leadership of its Chairman Dr. K. Sivan, has been making rapid strides in the field of space research and technology. The organization has successfully launched a series of satellites and has also undertaken complex missions such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, which have brought immense pride to the nation. With the successful hot test of the semi-cryogenic engine, ISRO has added yet another feather to its cap and has further strengthened its position as a leading player in the global space arena.
The success of the hot test is also a testament to the close collaboration between different ISRO centers and the industry. Various industries and academia have played an essential role in the development of the SE2000 engine, showcasing the power of a collaborative approach towards technological advancements.
In conclusion, the successful hot test of the semi-cryogenic SE2000 engine by ISRO is a significant achievement and a crucial step towards realizing India’s dreams of undertaking more ambitious space missions. The new propulsion system’s improved efficiency and stability offer immense potential for future heavy-lift space missions and reaffirm India’s position as a leader
