FIRST HOT-TEST OF CRYOGENIC STAGE BY YEAR-END
The first hot-test
of the crucial cryogenic stage is now programmed to be held by
the year-end. The integration of the indigenous cryogenic stage
with Engine A-2 is progressing according to schedule to meet the
targeted time. The propellant tanks for the stage have been pressure
tested. The tanks are ready for internal assembly.
A major milestone
was achieved during the year with the successful testing of cryogenic
engine (A-1). This Engine has undergone 11 endurance hot tests
with a total cumulative duration of more than 3000 seconds. The
engine was also operated in the up-rated regime. Hot test of the
A-1 engine with close loop control of the thrust regulator and
mixture ratio controller was also successfully carried out in
which the through and mixture ratio control were kept in close-loop
simulating the flight profile. These tests have enabled finalisation
of engine chill-down procedure, establishment of engine start
up and shut down transients, demonstration of margins of engine
life and validation of test-stand systems etc.
The Cryogenic Upper
Stage Project (CUSP) envisaged designing and development of an
indigenous cryogenic upper stage to replace the Russian supplied
cryogenic stage in the geo-synchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
The cryogenic upper stage will have a thrust of 7.5 tonnes and
carry 12.5 tonne propellant i.e. liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen,
which will burn for about 800 seconds.
It may be recalled
that the second developmental flight of GSLV-D2 was successfully
carried out last month with the vehicle injecting GSAT-2 into
the desired orbit meeting all mission objectives.
