- Recently,Ā Hindustan Aeronautics LtdĀ (HAL) delivered theĀ heaviest semi-cryogenic propellant tankĀ (SC120- LOX) to theĀ Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
- In 2020, HAL delivered theĀ biggest ever cryogenic Liquid Hydrogen tankĀ (C32-LH2) to ISRO.
Important points:
- TheĀ semi cryo-liquid oxygen (LOX) tank –Ā the first developmental welded hardware –Ā is a part of the SC120 stage intended for payload enhancementĀ by replacing the L110 stageĀ in the existing Mk-III launch vehicle.
- GSLV Mk IIIĀ 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 theĀ 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 providesĀ more force with each kilogram of cryogenic propellant it usesĀ compared to other propellants, such asĀ solid and liquid propellant rocket enginesĀ 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 engineĀ uses Refined kerosene instead of liquid hydrogen.
- The liquid oxygen is used as a Oxidiser.
- Thatās 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 oxygenĀ provide a higher thrust to the rocket.
- Refined Kerosene occupies less space,Ā making it possible to carry more propellantĀ in a Semi Cryogenic engines fuel compartment.
- A semi cryogenic engine isĀ more powerful, environment friendly and cost effectiveĀ as compared to a cryogenic engine.
SOURCE: THE HINDU,THE ECONOMIC TIMES, MINT