ISRO and Wipro 3D have collaboratively developed and tested a 3D-printed rocket engine for India’s PSLV, showcasing advancements in additive manufacturing technology.
In a landmark achievement for sustainable space exploration, Wipro 3D and ISRO have jointly developed and successfully tested a 3D-printed rocket engine for India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). The engine, designed for the fourth stage (PS4), marks a significant advancement in additive manufacturing technology within India’s space program.
Video – https://youtu.be/s7rVcy0enHQ
Design Innovation and Benefits
The 3D-printed engine is designed for the fourth stage (PS4) of the PSLV. ISRO utilized Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) techniques to redesign the conventionally manufactured PS4 engine. By employing Laser Powder Bed Fusion, the number of engine components was reduced from 14 to a single piece, eliminating 19 weld joints. This streamlined design not only reduces raw material usage and production time but also enhances overall efficiency and performance.
Development and Testing
The engine, which uses a bipropellant combination of nitrogen tetroxide and monomethyl hydrazine, was developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC). Wipro 3D, the Indian industry partner, managed the additive manufacturing process. To ensure the engine’s performance, extensive testing was conducted, including detailed flow and thermal modeling, structural simulations, and multiple hot tests.
Video – https://youtu.be/s7rVcy0enHQ
Rigorous Testing Validates Performance
Before achieving the successful 665-second hot test, ISRO performed comprehensive developmental testing. This included four hot tests of the integrated engine, which confirmed its performance and reliability under various conditions. These rigorous evaluations ensure the engine’s readiness for operational deployment.
Video – https://youtu.be/s7rVcy0enHQ
Future Implications
The successful testing of the 3D-printed PS4 engine represents a significant milestone in the adoption of additive manufacturing technology for rocket engines. ISRO plans to integrate this engine into the regular PSLV program, marking a new era of advanced manufacturing techniques in India’s space endeavors. This promises greater efficiency and sustainability for future missions.
The collaboration between ISRO and Wipro 3D has set a new standard in the field of additive manufacturing for space applications. The successful development and testing of the 3D-printed rocket engine underscore India’s capability to innovate and lead in the realm of space technology, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable space missions in the future.
Video – https://youtu.be/s7rVcy0enHQ
