Aluminium Propellant Tank
ESA
The inherent risk of non-demisable Titanium Alloy tanks surviving re-entry and falling to Earth is recognised. Nammo Space has utilised specially developed forging and friction stir welding capabilities at its Raufoss manufacturing facility to create spacecraft propellant tanks in Aluminium Alloy.
Nammo’s metallurgists and chemists have carried out analysis and propellant compatibility testing of high strength Aluminium alloys with hydrazine derivatives, NTO and Hydrogen Peroxide. Using the alloys that pass the selection and mechanical performance criteria, tank shells are forged, machined and assembled with moulded diaphragms and appropriate welding techniques. The tanks are then proven through a complex and intensive inspection and testing regime, before being delivered for propulsion system integration.
Storage Fluids
Compatibility testing is available for other fluids.
Pressurant
Helium gas can also be used
Tank Type
Positive Expulsion Device (Diaphragm type)
Useable Propellant Volume
45.5 Litres
Mass
< 13 kg
Maximum Expected Operating Pressure
32 bara
Proof Pressure Factor
1.5
Burst Pressure Factor
> 2
Expulsion Efficiency
> 99%
Blowdown Ratio
2.7
Tank Form
Spherical domes with cylindrical mid-section
Dimensions (at interfaces)
Equatorial mounting
External Leakage
1 x 10-6 scc/s
Diaphragm Material
Viton
Tank Structure Material
AA6000 series T6
Structural Interface
Interfaces are customisable, please contact Nammo for further details.
Fluidic Interface
Interfaces are customisable, please contact Nammo for further details.
Operational Cycles
Expulsion cycles
Technology Readiness Level
TRL5
Status
This tank is currently in development for use on the Vega upper stage AVUM.
NAMMO RAUFOSS
ENGINEERING
- Multidisciplinary space department
- Specialists in H2O2 propulsion
- Experienced in sounding rocket flight
- Experienced on Ariane and Vega programs
- Emphasis on Risk Management
MANUFACTURING
- On-site production facility
- Licensed for on site processes
TEST FACILITIES
- 500kN thrust test stand
- Multiple vibration test units
- Hydrogen Peroxide Propulsion Test Facility
CLEANROOM
- Specific space hardware assembly areas
- Cleanliness risk mitigated
QUALITY
- Certified to AS9100
- Customer focused Product Assurance
