The Chinese mainland marked a significant achievement in aerospace technology by successfully conducting three ignition tests for liquid oxygen-kerosene engines in one day, according to the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
This unprecedented feat involved two 120-tonne and one 18-tonne engines, demonstrating China's enhanced capability to support high-frequency launches of the Long March rocket series in the near future.
These pre-delivery acceptance tests are crucial steps to ensure that each engine meets the stringent standards required before the final assembly of rockets. Engine testing is a vital component in the research and development of rocket propulsion systems, encompassing a wide range of tests to guarantee reliability and performance.
The tests were conducted by the Academy of Aerospace Propulsion Technology, a subsidiary of CASC, at their facility in the Baolongyu area of Xi'an City, Shaanxi Province. This achievement highlights a major advancement in the mainland's testing and verification capabilities, paving the way for mass production and timely delivery of new-generation launch vehicle engines.
Over the past two decades, the Baolongyu facility has implemented several measures, including digital empowerment and technological innovation, to streamline the testing process. These improvements have reduced the preparation time for acceptance tests from five days to just two, significantly boosting operational efficiency and ensuring the timely delivery of engines for China's next-generation launch vehicles.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
