Amateur Rocket Propulsion Lab

The Mobile Test Stand (MTS) was built to support cold-flow and hot-fire tests for rocket engines up to 3,000 lbf of thrust. Due to its modular design, it could easily be modified to support hybrid and solid rocket motor tests as well.

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All hazardous operations can be remotely operated using pneumatic and solenoid valves. The fluid system is built to support propellants such as liquid oxygen (LOX), ethanol, and kerosene. A high pressure helium/nitrogen tank is used to pressurize the propellant tanks using 1/2" lines. The main feed system consists of 1" lines along with 1" main and fire valves for both propellants. Propellant flow is controlled via a cavitating/sonic orifice, which is also useful for inhibiting feed system oscillations by decoupling the engine from the feed system. 

 

Engine and feed lines purge system operate at 150 psi, and is controlled via a pneumatically actuated ball valve. All pneumatic valves in the system are actuated with compressed air at 120 psi.

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