Skyrora 3D prints new model of 70kN rocket engine, starts full-duration tests

As preparation for a commercial launch, Skyrora has 3D printed a new model of its orbital rocket engine ready for landmark tests.

The Edinburgh-based rocket company – which has developed its own eco-friendly fuel, Ecosene, made of waste plastics – has begun a series of full-duration tests to qualify the updated design of its 70kN engine. The engines were created using the company’s Skyprint 2 machine for the first time. This halved the production time and reduced costs, it said.

The new engine design has an improved engine cooling chamber to increase the efficiency of the cooling process, which in turn extends the engine’s life cycle, reported Skyrora. Compared to the original model, the 70 kN engines can now be manufactured 66% faster at a 20% cost reduction.

The fuel involved is also notable.

“Upon qualification, the updated 70 kN engine will become the first ever commercial engine to use a closed-cycle staged combustion system run on a propellant combination of Hydrogen Peroxide and Kerosene. While it has not been used historically due to its complexity, the higher specific impulse generated through this design will increase the overall efficiency of the engine.”

Pictured above is Skyrora’s engine test site in Midlothian, Scotland. The trials will will take place every week into the summer. The company said successful completion of the test series “will mark a key milestone” within the company’s contract under the European Space Agency (ESA)’s Commercial Space Transportation Services and Support Programme.

“The new models of 3D printed engines are bringing Skyrora closer towards efficient commercial orbital launch,” said Skyrora’s CEO and Founder Volodymyr Levykin.

“With our purpose-built rocket manufacturing and testing facilities in Scotland, we are proud to be localising as much of the launch value chain as possible. The new engine technology developed by Skyrora’s engineers and the commitment to a sustainable design are a testament to the innovation taking place in the UK space sector.”