Researchers from the American startup Firehawk have announced successful tests of solid fuel for missiles,
Although today's rocket engines are technologicallyand powerful, most of them use traditional volatile fuels. The developers presented an alternative - structured solid fuel grain. Unlike traditional types, it is easy and safe to transport, in addition, it allows you to control combustion and control traction.
For example, an engine running on such a fuel cansafely slow down, stop and start again several times. In the case of liquid rocket fuels, the process is usually irreversible, the company notes: after launch, it must be completely exhausted in order to avoid an explosion.
Solid fuel engine tests. Image: Firehawk Aerospace
The developers note that for each specifictasks they can create a unique geometry of fuel grains with desired characteristics. Any such changes require small changes to the program code and uploading it to the 3D printer.
During the tests that took place in the Spaceat the Stennis Center under the supervision of NASA, the company demonstrated the operation of fuel and engines specially designed for it. The test results confirmed that the company is ready to launch into the atmosphere.
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Cover image: Firehawk Aerospace