Current Status:
We built the test stand, integrated the chamber assembly onto the test stand, and conducted leak testing in Nov 2023. We are finalizing our testing procedures and aim to hot fire in the next few weeks (Dec 2023)!
The main goals of the Helios Project are as follows:
- Develop a robust test stand to be used for current and future engine projects
- Design a simple engine to exercise basic liquid engine design principles
Specifications:
Heat-sink cooled
Pressure-fed, gN2
Chamber pressure @ 500 psi
Made out of 1018C Steel
360 lbf thrust, 5 second burn
Chamber diameter: 3.157 in
Throat diameter: 0.789
Expansion ratio: 5.82
L* : 40.83 in
Yield strength: 370 MPa
MEOP: 7.48 MPa
Design Review
The Helios design review linked below gives a great overview of the test stand and engine design, but is a bit outdated in terms of project progress and more recent design changes.
Milestones
Nov 4: We setup our test stand at our test site in Maine for the first time.
Nov 11: We conducted switchbox tests, leak tests, igniter tests, and data acquisition system tests at our test site.