The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) reached a significant milestone with the successful long-duration test of the PS4 engine of the PSLV stage.
Engine Design Advancements
- ISRO scientists developed a new engine, reducing raw material usage by 97% and cutting production time by 60%.
- The engine, manufactured as a single piece using Additive Manufacturing (AM) technology, underwent hot testing for 665 seconds on May 9.
- Manufacturing was conducted by M/s WIPRO 3D in India, with testing carried out at the ISRO Propulsion Complex, Mahendragiri.
Redesign for Additive Manufacturing (AM)
- The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) at ISRO redesigned the engine, incorporating the Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) concept for significant advantages.
- The conventional PS4 engine, previously manufactured through machining and welding, has been enhanced for the fourth stage of PSLV, with a vacuum thrust of 7.33 kN.
Technological Innovations
- The Laser Powder Bed Fusion technique reduced the number of parts from 14 to a single piece and eliminated 19 weld joints.
- This innovation significantly reduces raw material usage (13.7 kg of metal powder compared to 565 kg for conventional manufacturing) and cuts overall production time by 60%.
Future Plans
- ISRO aims to integrate the redesigned AM PS4 engine into its regular PSLV program.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What milestone did ISRO achieve recently?
a) Successful launch of a satellite
b) Long-duration test of the PS4 engine of the PSLV stage
c) First human spaceflight mission
d) Exploration of Mars
Answer: b) Long-duration test of the PS4 engine of the PSLV stage - How much raw material usage did ISRO’s new engine design save?
a) 60%
b) 80%
c) 97%
d) 50%
Answer: c) 97% - Which technology was employed for manufacturing the new engine?
a) Conventional machining and welding
b) Additive Manufacturing (AM)
c) 3D printing
d) Injection molding
Answer: b) Additive Manufacturing (AM) - What was the duration of the hot testing conducted on the new engine?
a) 500 seconds
b) 665 seconds
c) 800 seconds
d) 1000 seconds
Answer: b) 665 seconds - What is the thrust of the PS4 engine in vacuum condition?
a) 5.55 kN
b) 6.66 kN
c) 7.33 kN
d) 8.88 kN
Answer: c) 7.33 kN