SC120- LOX

Recently, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) delivered the heaviest semi-cryogenic propellant tank (SC120- LOX) to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
In 2020, HAL delivered the biggest ever cryogenic Liquid Hydrogen tank (C32-LH2) to ISRO.

Important points:

The semi cryo-liquid oxygen (LOX) tank – the first developmental welded hardware – is a part of the SC120 stage intended for payload enhancement by replacing the L110 stage in the existing Mk-III launch vehicle.
GSLV Mk III is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO. The vehicle has two solid strap-ons, a core liquid booster and a cryogenic upper stage.

Cryogenic Engine:

A cryogenic engine/cryogenic stage is the last stage of space launch vehicles which makes use of Cryogenics.
Cryogenics is the study of the production and behaviour of materials at extremely low temperatures (below -150 degree Centigrade) to lift and place heavier objects in space.
A cryogenic engine provides more force with each kilogram of cryogenic propellant it uses compared to other propellants, such as solid and liquid propellant rocket engines and is more efficient.
It uses Liquid Oxygen (LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen (LH2) as propellants which liquefy at -183 deg C and -253 deg C respectively.

Semi Cryogenic Engine:

Unlike a Cryogenic engine, a Semi Cryogenic engine uses Refined kerosene instead of liquid hydrogen.
The liquid oxygen is used as a Oxidiser.
That’s the advantage of using a Semi Cryogenic engine as it requires Refined Kerosene which is lighter than liquid fuel and can be stored in a normal temperature.
Kerosene combined with liquid oxygen provide a higher thrust to the rocket.
Refined Kerosene occupies less space, making it possible to carry more propellant in a Semi Cryogenic engines fuel compartment.
A semi cryogenic engine is more powerful, environment friendly and cost effective as compared to a cryogenic engine.

SOURCE: THE HINDU,THE ECONOMIC TIMES, MINT

Post Views: 29