The Integrated powerhead demonstrator is a U.S. Air Force project run by NASA and the AFRL to develop a rocket engine that utilizes a full flow staged combustion cycle (FFSCC). The prime contractors are Rocketdyne and Aerojet.[1] The main design goal is to apply the advantages of FFSCC to create a reusable engine with improved life, reliability and performance. The turbines will also feature hydrostatic bearings instead of the traditional ball bearings. On July 19, 2006 Rocketdyne announced that the demonstrator engine had been operated at full power.[2]
References
- ^ Integrated Powerhead Demonstrator (wikisource)
- ^ New 'Rocket Engine of the Future' Goes to 'Mainstage'. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne.
External links
- Emdee, Jeff (Winter 2004). Launch Vehicle Propulsion. The Aerospace Corporation. (Includes info on tech hurdles and development of IPD.)
- U.S. Air Force-NASA Technology Demonstrator Engine for Future Launch Vehicles Successfully Fired During Initial Full Duration Test. NASA (2005-02-05). (Test firing news with pictures.)
- Building a Better Rocket Engine. NASA (October 14, 2005).
