...
Used on Phoenix, Staging Demo and HADES
Piston failure experienced on Staging Demo II (resulted in sustainer destruction)
Pressure sealed so can be used at high-altitudes
Although risk of no pressure seal on the firebolts (mitigated using hydrostatic testing)
Overall black powder is less reliable at higher altitudes (lower pressure slows down combustion propagation)
Test hot glue instead of epoxy as a sealing method for the firebolts
Takes up 8 inches in length of mpt
Can be reused
Look into & test shorter pistons?
Piston chosen:
More info on different types of pistons: https://www.globalspec.com/learnmore/fluid_power_components/pneumatic_equipment_components/air_cylinders
BP calculator: https://rocketrycalculator.com/rocketry-calculator/bp-estimator/
Initial Testing for Piston at low pressure
...
Shear Pins
Phoenix had 3 on sustainer nose cone and 4 on booster
Medusa needs more shear pins on secondary deployment to ensure there is no early deployment
Swivels
Options:
1500lb ASP Rocketry https://www.asp-rocketry.com/ecommerce/Barrel-Swivel-1-500-Lb-Test.cfm?item_id=159&parent=51&navPanel=
6000 lb from fruity chutes. Supports rockets up to 400lbs https://shop.fruitychutes.com/collections/recovery-and-launch-hardware/products/6000-lb-stainless-steel-swivel
Weight
Sustainer: 15.8 dry, 35 wet. Total: 50.8lbs
Booster: 103lb dry,
Firebolts
- The method used for Phoenix for integrating the black powder charges with the firebolts into the pistons worked but was frustrating
- The teflon tape used to contain the black powder was liable to tear when screwed into the fittings at the bottom of the piston
- Firebolts wiki page
CO2 Canisters
Researched, but decided to stay with piston system
...