Skyrora tests 3D-printed rocket engine for commercial space launches in Scotland
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In the United Kingdom, first-of-its-kind 3D-printed rocket engines are being tested for real-world applications.
Skyrora, an Edinburgh-based firm, is executing a series of tests in preparation for its first commercial orbital launch.
The full-duration tests on an updated design of a 70kN engine are being conducted at the largest test site in Midlothian, Scotland.
We've officially commenced tests to qualify the updated design of our 70 kN engine for commercial use on #SkyroraXL! 🚀
— Skyrora (@Skyrora_Ltd) June 19, 2023
Produced via our #Skyprint2 printer, the new model can be now be manufactured 50% faster at a cost reduction.
Learn more: https://t.co/YlU97QaRNb pic.twitter.com/ngEoOmi6UC
The 3D-printed engine test
For the first time, the new engine was 3D printed utilizing Skyrora's Skyprint 2 machine.
The use of 3D technology cuts production time in half and decreases engine development expenses. When compared to the company's old engine model, the 70 kN engine reduces production costs by 20 percent while producing at a 66 percent quicker pace.
In this upgraded design, Skyrora has included a better version of an engine cooling chamber. The cooling chamber helps to accelerate the cooling process, which may help to lengthen the engine's life cycle.
The engine will go through "full operational envelope testing" and will operate for 250 seconds - the same length of time it takes to launch a rocket mission into orbit.
“A successful test will be indicated by nominal chamber pressures and thrust levels with no damage to the hardware,” noted the press release.
Furthermore, the testing will enable the company to make the required improvements for the final mission. According to the release, these essential improvements, such as design changes based on test findings, may be done in three weeks.
The updated 70kN engine runs on a propellant mixture of hydrogen peroxide and kerosene for the launch. This innovative engine design will be a critical component of Skyrora's XL orbital vehicle's first and second stages.
Engine qualification required
These series of tests will also help the firm to get qualified for the 70kN engine, which will be necessary for commercial flights or to provide services to other companies. One of the primary goals of the pre-commercial launch service is engine certification. It is also supported by the ESA's Boost! Programme.
“We’re coming very close to finalizing our engine qualification programme after a long journey of technical progress, which will be a massive success for the team. This is a key milestone which will qualify one of the main subsystems of our orbital launch vehicle to the correct standards for commercial operations, and as such, is a significant step in the journey to orbital launch,” said Dr. Jack James Marlow, who is Skyrora’s Head of Engineering, in a statement.
Upon qualification, Skyrora will be able to use its in-house 3D printer "Skyprint 2" to provide services to other parties. This capability will also help the company's foothold in the new space market, which has been rapidly expanding in recent years.
Skyrora will also scale the upgraded engine manufacturing rate and complete full first-stage Skyrora XL testing. Meanwhile, the third and second stages of the launch vehicle were successfully tested in 2020 and 2022, respectively.
After receiving its Civil Aviation Authority license, Skyrora intends to conduct orbital launches from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Isles. The company applied for a license in 2022.
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